Huntley Unit Dist. 158 administrators receive Patriotic Employer Award

During the Huntley Unit District 158 board of education's Dec. 20 meeting, Superintendent Scott Rowe and Assistant Superintendent Erika Schlichter received the Patriot Award from the U.S. Department of Defense's Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve program.

The award is presented to organizational leaders who hire and support members of the National Guard or Reserve.

They were nominated for the award by Reserve Master Sergeant Bill Johnson, who was hired by Huntley Unit District 158 in 2018 as director of curriculum for sixth to 12th grade.

In particular, the award honors individuals who are highly supportive of employees' National Guard or Reserve service, who outwardly recognize Reservist employees as a special asset and who continue salary and benefits for Reservists.

"They have gone above and beyond to ensure I am able to balance my work, military, and family lives, and I am extremely grateful for not only their support, but of the support of District 158 at large," Johnson wrote in his nomination letter.

The award was presented by Dr. Troy Stinson, ESGR volunteer management coordinator.