Laurel Hill family, friends revel in Spotlight School status

Celebrations and after-school events are nothing new at Laurel Hill Elementary. Maybe that's why the Hanover Park school was recognized by the Illinois Board of Education as a Spotlight School and an Academic Improvement Award winner.

Staff and students celebrated their achievements last week with a book fair, performances and an appearance by Hanover Park Village President Rodney Craig.

The school's Battle of the Books team put on a reader's theater performance of "Mr. Popper's Penguins," while Amanda Schacht's English Language Learners class read "Herbie Jones." About half of the Laurel Hill chorus members appeared to sing several songs, including "On the Road Again," "I've Lost My Homework" and "Step by Step."

In proclaiming Laurel Hill week, Rodney Craig complimented the way staff, students and parents work together.

"It doesn't happen easily," Craig said. "It takes the work of students, parents and teachers. It's a community effort."

In addition to the program, the school also held a "Buy One, Get One" free book fair where purchasers were encouraged to donate their free book to the school.

"We get compliments all the time on our kids and their talent," said Laurel Hill Principal Patricia Stubbs. "It's even better, though, when you get recognized by the state Board of Education."