News

John Hersey teacher earns VFW Citizenship award

Posted January 16, 2020 10:00 pm

Submitted by District 214

John Hersey High School English teacher Jim Miks has earned statewide recognition as one of only three Illinois recipients of the 2019-2020 Smart/Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher Award.

Miks and two downstate teachers are now eligible for national recognition. Miks has played a key role in Hersey's extensive effort to honor and assist veterans. Among these: students assembled and shipped more than 30 care packages to the unit of a Hersey graduate in Afghanistan.

In December, the school hosted and introduced several groups working on behalf of veterans. In addition, Hersey, along with other District 214 schools, has in recent years collaborated with the Nine Line Foundation to build 20 tiny homes, which were shipped to Veterans Village in Savannah, Georgia. District 214 has also conducted fundraisers on behalf of Veterans Village.

"The endeavors and the projects related to my VFW honors involve so many patriotic American educators, citizens and veterans that I have no way to credit or to thank them all," said Miks.

"I am lucky to work with great people. I am blessed to work with them all. Special thanks to Greg Padovani of VFW Post 1337 of Mount Prospect for sponsoring my nomination. I hope the award helps keep our mission to serve veterans strong."

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