Dist. 114 official honored in mural, and on the road

It's only fitting that longtime Fox Lake Elementary District 114 official Bill Lomas be immortalized inside and outside of the building where he served as principal.

He was honored Tuesday morning when Hawthorn Drive outside of Stanton Middle School was changed to William T. Lomas Junior Drive and the "Lomas Legacy" mural was unveiled in the school lobby.

Lomas, who has served as Stanton's principal since 1989, said he was overwhelmed when he removed the cover from the street sign and saw his name identifying the road that connects the middle school to Grand Avenue.

"That was such a wonderful surprise and a great gesture by the mayor, the village, and the rest of the community," he said. "I am truly overwhelmed by it."

Lomas, who has worked at District 114 since 1978, is retiring at the end of the 2010 school year. Currently, he serves as associate superintendent after training current Stanton principal Jeff Sefcik.

"I served under Bill for four years and, honestly, he truly is the most kid friendly person I have ever met," Sefcik said. "He taught me everything he could to ensure I was ready to take over this position, but he was always very sharing. And, the thing I realized the most was how much he cared about the kids."

The "Lomas Legacy" mural, just outside the principal's office, will include photos of future legacy award winners. Officials said the award will be given annually to someone from the community or the district who shows exemplary dedication and commitment to District 114 and its students.