Briefs: New principal named

Elk Grove Township Elementary District 59 board members have named Megan Hernandez as principal at Jay Elementary in Mount Prospect. Her new position takes effect July 1. She replaces David Larsen and Cindy Brummitt, who served as interim leaders after Maria Hernandez left the district at the end of the last school year. Megan Hernandez currently serves as assistant principal of Middleton Elementary in Skokie. She received a bachelor's degree from Central Michigan University in 2001 and a master's from Nova Southeastern University in 2006.

School calendar changed

Des Plaines Elementary District 62 has announced its plan to add extra school days to make up for the days schools had to close because of the weather. To date, the district canceled three days: one because of August storms and two because of recent snow. Students will attend school April 24 and 25 and May 23 to make up for those days off.

Black ice causes crashes

A stretch of black ice was being blamed for a frustrating commute Tuesday morning in the Bartlett area, where police responded to nearly a dozen car crashes and spinouts along the Route 59 corridor. No one was injured in any of the accidents, which police Sgt. Mike McGuigan labeled as minor. Multiple crashes took place at the Stearns Road intersection. Emergency crews were dispatched to at least one accident with injuries at Route 59 and Bartlett Road later Tuesday, while the evening rush was slowed by the day's snowfall.

Couples can renew vows

Couples wishing to say "I do" -- again -- are invited to take part in a vow renewal ceremony at 2 p.m. Thursday, Valentine's Day, at the Victory Centre of Bartlett, 1101 W. Bartlett Road. The Rev. LeRoy Kennel of Schaumburg will officiate the free service, which already includes several couples. Friends and family are welcome. Interested parties are asked to call the Victory Centre at (630) 213-0100 in advance.