DeKalb kids help boost Huskies' spirits

In an attempt to return to normalcy, some Northern Illinois University student athletes spent part of their Friday afternoon at DeKalb's Lincoln Elementary School talking to the children about the importance of getting good grades and being active.

But it was the kids who gave the athletes the biggest boost. Most dressed in red and black, singing NIU's fight song as the college students entered the room.

"I didn't really know what to expect. Walking in here, seeing all the little kids dressed in red and black, some of them wearing the NIU gear, singing the songs, it brings the Huskie pride back. At a time like this, it's real important," said NIU's Justin Stewart.

It's just one event by the DeKalb School District to show its support for NIU. Children at all of the city schools colored posters that will be attached to several hundred cookies and then handed out to students as they return to campus for the beginning of classes Monday.

Before classes restart, the students and the staff will come together Sunday night at the NIU Convocation Center for a memorial service where they will remember all of those who were killed or injured.

The NIU memorial service will be broadcast live to three university outreach centers in the area. Doors will open at 6 p.m. The outreach centers are located in Hoffman Estates, Naperville and Rockford.