Fox Valley briefs

District 158 hosts forums:

Huntley Unit District 158 is hosting two forums on how to spend federal stimulus money district officials expect to receive for special education. The district expects to get about $1.6 million for special education next year. Officials have said they would like to spend half that sum on existing programs, but some special education parents say the district should spend the full amount on special-needs children. The forums will be held at 7 p.m. July 14 and 15 in the District 158 board room, 650 Academic Drive, Algonquin. You can also e-mail questions to arrafunds@district158.org if you are unable to attend. Call (847) 659-6158.

Help still needed:

Elgin Parks and Recreation Department officials are still in need of volunteers to help assemble ramps, jumps and other obstacles between July 20 and July 30 at the city's second skateboard park at Prairie Park, an eight-acre site on Willard Avenue, north of Villa Street. The city spent $100,000 on ramps for the 11,000-square-foot park. Volunteers are needed for two-hour shifts. Anyone 13 and older may volunteer, but those using power tools must be at least 18. For details, call (847) 931-6788 or e-mail bednar_p@cityofelgin.org.

Know any local vets?:

Hampshire High School is seeking the names of local veterans for the school's celebration on Veterans Day, Nov. 11. The goal of the event, "Honoring the Veterans of Hampshire," is to provide students with a better understanding of veterans' contributions. The Community Unit District 300 school board voted this year to hold classes on Veterans Day. Board members said students could learn more about veterans from presentations and classes than they could staying home. Call (847) 792-3500.