More community colleges to get help developing green programs

This spring, I wrote about Elgin Community College purchasing several hybrid cars for their automotive program.

Several readers heralded the idea, commenting that the move would help students gain marketable skills in a changing industry.

Now, students at other community colleges will be getting similar green opportunities.

Illinois - along with Georgia, New Jersey, Ohio and Oregon - will receive a grant from the National Research Center for Career and Technical Education to broaden green studies at the community colleges.

According to a news release, the Louisville, Ky.-based Center will offer guidance to make programs of study with a specific focus on energy, utilities and waste management more "green focused." Each state will work with a facilitator and content experts, and later participate in a technical assistance academy held in Washington, D.C.

U-46 booths at FoxFireFest: Elgin Area School District U-46 will have a strong presence at FoxFireFest this weekend.

According to recent postings on the district's Web site, fine arts, performing arts and science instructors will be running a number of fun and, yes, educational stations.

Fine arts instructors will sponsor the "Imagination Station," teaching the Japanese art of fish printing.

Larkin High School's Visual and Performing Arts Academy faculty and students will help guide participants through rhythmic activities loom weaving for a community weaving project.

And, channeling "Bill Nye the Science Guy," science teachers from South Elgin High will explain the physics behind water rockets and exploding toilet paper. Here's guessing that booth will be especially popular.

ECC trustee lauded: Elgin Community College Trustee Clare Ollayos was recently honored by her alma mater, the National University of Health Sciences in Lombard.

Ollayos, an Elgin resident and chiropractor, received the school's President's Award for Distinguished Service. She graduated from the school in 1987.

Officials said the award was for Ollayos' dedicated service to the university, especially in legislative and government affairs.

Ollayos' service includes making legislative calls on the university's behalf and allowing students to shadow her at her practice. Congrats, Clare!