D127 Students And Staff Honored

As the school year wraps up, the District 127 school board took the time to recognize students from different clubs and activities, and heard what they enjoyed about being involved, their achievements and from seniors, what’s next.

Georgette Polychronos, Grayslake North history teacher, introduced History Fair Particpants Erin Chatten and Matt Teubert and shared their success at the fair. Chatten was awarded a $20,000 scholarship to DePaul University for her project on the YMCA, which she said she has been involved with since she was a child.

“[The YMCA] changed society for the better,” she said about her research. Teubert is a National Qualifier for National History Day with his research project on the Manhattan Project and the Atomic Scientists of Chicago. His project will also be featured this summer as one of 24 in an exhibit at the Chicago History Museum.

“We’re very proud of them,” Polychronos said. Other History Fair participants Keny Ponce and Shelby Hendrix could not be present.

Grayslake North Debate Students Sara Denbo, Natalie Krajewski, Sam Lowy, Jane Miller, Derek Pierce, Danny Santelle and Rachel Perry were recognized for their various accomplishments. The team received first place at the Stevenson Invitational Congressional Debate Tournament in October. They competed in the Tournament of Champions at Wheeling High School where Jason Lewitzke and Denbo were invited to compete at the Championship level.

The debate team was also recently recognized for a state tournament at NIU. Santelle won a best legislation and best speaker award, and Perry was voted favorite presiding officer by the team.

Christopher Kubic, Grayslake North debate coach, said over the seven years he’s been involved with debate team this group was the “most hardworking, cohesive team.”

He said debate allows students to understand and articulate complex topics, such as foreign affairs, economics and politics. Other members could not be present.

Grayslake Central’s Worldwide Youth in Science and Engineering group were state qualifiers. Members of WYSE include Solbee Ahn, Mitch Berezovskiy, Jesse Black, Meredith Carroll, Kris Chetterjee, Emily Culum, Khamille Delara, Eric Donahue, David Houghton, Megan Lantz, Charlie Mack, Kevin Nikkel, Isaac Parakati, Justin Podowski, Matt Polsgrove and Misty Strawder.

“They’ve done an amazing job,” said Grayslake Central Principal Sydney Klocke.

The district also applauded Grayslake Central’s Band and Choir Departments. A large group of students stood before the board holding trophies and plaques for their achievements. Central placed third in state at the IMEA competitions and also won Division 1 Honors for vocal, jazz band and band divisions.

The board also introduced Michael Marassa as the new director of technology.

District 127’s Board of Education will meet June 16 and July 14 and resume their regular schedule in August.