School District U-46’s Parent Leadership Institutes provide leadership training, guiding parents to become more active participants in their child’s education and enhancing their advocacy skills. The program is comprised of the African American Parent Leadership Institute (AAPLI) and Hispanic Parent Leadership Institute (HPLI). More than 125 parents have graduated from the AAPLI and HPLI since they were established in 2010. Some, like Veronica Noland, a member of the U-46 Board of Education, and Corey Dixon, a member of the Elgin City Council, have gone on to become elected officials. Graduates have also served on the U-46 Instructional Council and state advisory boards, taken on leadership roles at their children's schools, and chaired a committee of the Citizens' Advisory Council. The program won a “Reflecting Excellence” award in the fall of 2017 from Reflejos Publications, a media company that has served the Latino market in Chicago’s suburbs for nearly 30 years. It was also highlighted at the annual conference of the Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents. 

We ask that those interested in the program learn about it by viewing the informational video below. After watching the video, those interested in applying for the program can find the AAPLI/HPLI application here (application will open soon, please check back later). If you have questions, please contact Karla Jiménez at karlajimenez@u-46.org.