Educator gains new perspective from Japan visit
Madhu Uppal, director of science and health for Schaumburg Township Elementary District 54, recently returned from a 10-day visit to Japan as part of the Keizai Koho Center Educator Fellowship she won.
The fellowship afforded a chance to learn about the Japanese economy and society through a series of round-table discussions and visits to schools, major companies and industries.
She was impressed by the centuries-long respect for the environment Japan has cultivated due to its limited resources, as well as the respect with which people treat each other.
With its small size, Japan is a place where water isn't frivolously wasted and much of what Americans regard as garbage is seen as renewable resources, Uppal said.
From business leaders all the way down to the students she usually works with, Uppal also noticed that most Japanese people feel no right to act on or demonstrate any negative emotions or lack of interest they may feel.
"One of the things that made me think of Japan as a paradise -- though I'm sure they have their own issues -- is the civility with which they treat each other," Uppal said.
She believes the most effective way to pass on what she saw and learned is through a conversation with a small group of teachers and students who can help model such behavior and spread the message individually.
Library's 'Food for Fines:' Throughout August, the Schaumburg Township District Library is offering two different ways patrons can help others in need.
For the rest of the month, overdue fines may be cleared by donating nonperishable food to the Schaumburg Township Food Pantry.
Each item will clear $2 off fines, while five items are sufficient to clear all current fines.
The Schaumburg Township Food Pantry staff is requesting pasta, canned meat, chunky soup, juice, tuna, peanut butter, jelly and toiletries.
Food past its expiration date will not be accepted. Fines for lost or damaged materials are not eligible.
Also in August, the library is collecting old cell phones in the lobby of the central library in Schaumburg as well as the Hanover Park and Hoffman Estates branches.
Phones will be sold to ReCellular for recycling with proceeds used to buy prepaid calling cards for U.S. soldiers serving overseas.
Visit yesterday tomorrow: From 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Spring Valley Nature Center and the Volkening Heritage Farm will offer families a trip back in time.
The program, "A Day Out of Time," offers participants a chance to step out of the 21st century and into the days when Native Americans lived in Schaumburg, using the prairie for their daily needs.
The event will offer explorations, games and crafts. The fee is $10 per resident family or $15 per nonresident family. To register, call (847) 985-2100.