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District 158 OKs budget

The Huntley Unit District 158 school board approved a tentative budget for the 2009-10 school year, which officially begins July 1. The lean budget does not have a surplus and includes cuts in operations, maintenance and technology. Not counting federal stimulus money, district officials expect costs to rise about $4 million next year, compared to the additional $1.4 million in revenue they expect to receive. "We tried to build a very conservative budget," Comptroller Mark Altmayer said. "We're trying to position ourselves for the worst." The budget does not include a potential increase in state aid because officials say that is not yet set in stone. The board will approve a final budget with more concrete numbers in September.

U-46 honors Streamwood mom

Streamwood resident Debbie Rome was recently honored by Elgin Area School District U-46 for her volunteer efforts. Rome has volunteered for U-46 for the last 13 years. She joined the Citizens' Advisory Council in 1996, was elected vice-chair in 2002, and chair in 2003. As a parent, she has been active at the schools her children attended - Oakhill Elementary School, Canton Middle School and Streamwood High School. She also represented those schools in CAC over the years.

South Elgin High administrator to work for county

Carol DePue, Elgin High's chair for career and technical education, has been selected as the Coordinator for Career and Technical Education and Director for Northern Kane Regional Vocational System. DePue started her career in Elgin Area School District U-46 at Larkin High School as a career and technical education teacher in 1995. At South Elgin, she planned and facilitated the development of programs, planned workshops for parents and students, and written grant proposals for new curriculum opportunities.