Veterans honor Diamond Lake District 76 principal for dedication to youth and community
The kindergarten through second grade students assembled in the Diamond Lake School gym may not have grasped what was happening as four veterans in uniform stood in front of the stage. And at first, neither did Principal Erica Berger.
She thought Monday's program was to be the first in a series of monthly gatherings for the young students designed to reinforce positive behavior.
Indeed, the veterans thanked the students hosting and giving a concert a few weeks earlier for Veterans Day at the Mundelein school and had short messages for them.
"You need to educate yourselves. We learn from each other," said Brian Burch, a member of Lake Zurich VFW Post 11020.
"Patriots come in all sizes," added retired U.S. Army Col. Mike Peck, former head of the Veterans Assistance Commission of Lake County.
Army veteran Marie Honeywell, commander of Illinois VFW 5th District, and Lee Lopez, Chicago chapter commander of the Military Order of the World Wars, joined them at the assembly.
Then, the attention turned to Berger, who was presented with a Certificate of Patriotism by the MOWW for dedication to "youth, community and nation."
She also received a "Making a Difference" pin from the Illinois VFW.
"It was huge surprise," Berger said. "They got me good."
Peter Cunningham, director of instruction and personnel services for Diamond Lake District 76, knew the recognition coming for Berger but also was surprised with a certificate from the organization that promotes patriotism, civic responsibility, public service, and leadership.
The pair have educated students and faculty about how the sacrifices made by veterans protect freedom, Burch said.
"They love to see them in uniform," said music teacher Spencer Kibbler. Under his guidance, students practiced six weeks on patriotic songs they performed in a inaugural concert for veterans on Nov. 10.
"It's a great way to support the veterans in the community," Kibbler said. "We plan on taking what we did this year and expand it."
Cunningham described Berger as a dedicated educator and "beacon of service and inspiration."
He said Berger is committed to creating a sense of community inside and outside school and has established connections that enable students to contribute.
Berger also goes above and beyond to celebrate the cultural heritage of students and through engaging events, ensures diversity not only is acknowledged but celebrated, Cunningham said.