U-46 recognizes Clergy Advisory Council at volunteer reception

The Elgin Area School District U-46 board hosted a special event on Tuesday, May 19, to recognize the hundreds of volunteers who gave their time and talent during this past school year to improve U-46, support student learning, and promote academic success.

Members of the many advisory councils in U-46, along with those serving on district committees, were invited to attend the 18th annual reception.

During the event, Chief Executive Officer Tony Sanders named the members of the Clergy Advisory Council the Volunteers of the Year. The members of the council attending represented a variety of faiths. Joining them were volunteers from the faith community that mentor students in U-46 schools through Kids Hope United or other programs.

The council was established 20 years ago and has been instrumental in promoting awareness of the religious diversity within the 11 communities of U-46.

The council created a resource book about religious practices of students that is updated and distributed annually to all administrators. Over the years, the council has had programs on guidelines related to separation of church and state and learned more about how places of worship can partner with schools. The members share information on topics of interest such as mentoring, drug awareness, school safety, homelessness, and community resources available to families. They have assisted with field trips, back-to-school supplies, drop-in programs for students, and financial support.

At the event, Sanders acknowledged several U-46 volunteer groups, including the African-American and Bilingual Parent Advisory Councils; the Citizens' Advisory Council; Student Advisory Council; School Safety Advisory Task Force; Business and Civic Leadership Advisory Council, Community Alliance; African-American Parent Leadership Institute and Hispanic Parent Leadership Institute members; and parent group leaders.

Members of the U-46 Educational Foundation and other volunteers serving as mentors and committee members also attended.

Sanders noted, "Some of our volunteers have served for decades. We appreciate their dedication to U-46 and to our students."

For more information about joining an advisory council or volunteering, contact Karla Jimenez, parent outreach coordinator, at (847) 888-5000, ext. 4211.