Choir director, secretary are U-46 standouts

A choir director and school secretary have been named Elgin Area School District U-46 employees of the year.

Gay Rupert, Bartlett High School's choir director, was named the district's certified employee of the year.

In addition to teaching and directing, Rupert leads school trips and coordinates volunteer efforts with Bartlett's Victory Center and the school's big brother/big sister program.

Five of Rupert's students this year made the All-State Honors Choir, a 40-member group for which hundreds of students audition.

"I just love the kids," Rupert said. "It's fun to take them and stretch them beyond where they think they can go."

Donna Saurbaugh, secretary at Willard Elementary School in South Elgin, was named classified employee of the year.

Willard Elementary Principal Jon Tuin said that much of Willard's good reputation in the community can be traced back to Saurbaugh's service and influence.

"There isn't a bigger advocate for learning in our school. She understands the vision, and works collaboratively to promote the cause," Tuin said.

U-46 employees and community members nominated candidates for the awards through the district's Web site. An employee recognition committee selected the winners.

Rupert and Saurbaugh will be recognized at the April 28 school board meeting.