District 214 honors community leaders with Distinguished Service Awards
High School District 214 recognized nine individuals for exceptional service and commitment to students, schools and the broader community during the 2025-26 Distinguished Service Awards ceremony held Feb. 26, at the Forest View Educational Center.
The Distinguished Service Awards celebrate parents, volunteers, community partners and advocates whose leadership strengthens public education and creates meaningful opportunities for students across the district. Honorees reflected the depth and diversity of support that helps District 214 schools thrive, including contributions to family engagement, career-connected learning, student wellness, adult education, fine arts, athletics and specialized programming.
“The honorees we celebrate have helped shape District 214 in meaningful ways. Their leadership, unwavering commitment and tireless efforts have benefited our students, staff and community,” Superintendent Dr. Scott Rowe said. “These individuals give selflessly, go above and beyond, and dedicate their time and energy to enriching the lives of others.”
2025-26 Distinguished Service Award Honorees
• Kelly Eidson, Buffalo Grove High School
Kelly Eidson was honored for her transformative leadership within the Buffalo Grove Parent Association and the Bison Booster Club. As a longtime parent leader, she modernized financial practices to ensure alignment with state and federal guidelines and provided steady organizational leadership. Eidson also attended Board of Education meetings, served on District advisory groups and supported campus safety initiatives, demonstrating exceptional commitment to the Buffalo Grove High School community.
• Mayor Craig Johnson, Elk Grove High School
Mayor Craig Johnson, an Elk Grove High School alumnus, was recognized for his enduring partnership with his alma mater and his leadership connecting education and industry. Through the “Makers Wanted” initiative and ongoing collaboration with the school, he expanded career-connected learning opportunities for students and staff. His advocacy helped secure more than $1 million in grants supporting programs and facilities, leaving a significant and lasting impact on the Elk Grove High School community.
• Shitalben Patel, District 214 Administration Center
Shitalben Patel was honored for her leadership as the inaugural chairperson of District 214’s Bilingual Parent Advisory Committee. Working closely with District leadership, she strengthened engagement with multilingual families by helping shape meeting topics, improve communication practices and provide feedback on key program materials. Her work helped create a welcoming and collaborative space where families are active partners in education.
• Deb Fredricks, District 214 Community Education
Deb Fredricks was recognized for her long-standing service as a Read to Learn tutor, supporting adult learners as they developed English language skills. Since 2015, she contributed hundreds of volunteer hours, assisted with student registration and testing, and consistently pursued professional learning to improve her practice. Her dedication and compassion made a meaningful difference for learners across the Community Education program.
• Dr. Tom Tingle, John Hersey High School
Dr. Tom Tingle was honored for his service as a trusted physician partner for John Hersey High School student-athletes. Through his work with Illinois Bone and Joint, he prioritized timely care, clear communication and collaboration with athletic trainers and school staff. His long-standing commitment to the Arlington Heights community helped ensure the health and safety of student-athletes over many years.
• Kara Hoover, Prospect High School
Kara Hoover was recognized for her leadership as vice president of the Prospect Teacher-Parent Council. She coordinated the school’s largest annual fundraiser and oversaw a minigrant program supporting student clubs, classroom initiatives and enrichment opportunities. Her efforts also helped fund scholarships for graduating seniors, strengthening student engagement and opportunity at Prospect High School.
• Catherine Olson, Rolling Meadows High School
Catherine Olson was honored for her years of dedicated service to Rolling Meadows High School as a PTO leader. Serving as secretary, she played a key role in facilitating mini-grants that supported student organizations and enhanced school programs. Known for her reliability and follow-through, Olson’s leadership contributed to a strong sense of belonging within the Mustang community.
• Jesus Cisneros, Specialized Schools
Jesus Cisneros was recognized for providing mentoring and substance-use support to students in District 214’s Specialized Schools through his work with the Kenneth Young Center. His approach emphasized trust, compassion and accountability, helping students understand the impact of their choices while guiding them toward healthier pathways. His work made a lasting difference for some of the District’s most vulnerable students.
• Tim Warner, Wheeling High School
Tim Warner was honored for his extensive volunteer service supporting fine arts, athletics and student activities at Wheeling High School. As coordinator of the Chicagoland Marching Band Festival, he helped raise nearly $150,000 to support music education, scholarships and access for students. His behind-the-scenes leadership expanded opportunities for countless students in the band program.
Honorees were recognized by the Board of Education for service that extends well beyond individual schools, strengthening relationships across District 214 and supporting students at every stage of their educational journey. The evening concluded with reflections on the collective impact of community partnership.