About the Foundation
Our Impact
Donor Voices: Why They Give
The Lawson Family
A teacher makes a lasting impact on the students that come through their classroom each school year, and Jane Lawson was no different. Jane was one of the fiercely-dedicated teachers that taught at Grant Elementary School in Elgin, where she began her teaching career. She taught 5th and 6th grade at Grant Elementary until her retirement in 1996. She was known for loving - and tracking - her students, sending many of them personalized notes when they graduated high school. The Grant Elementary School site was repurposed into the Grant School Park by the City of Elgin in 2008.
Jane Lawson passed away on February 15th, 2019, surrounded by her loving family. In lieu of flowers, the Lawson family asked family and friends to donate to the U-46 Educational Foundation in Jane’s name, generating $3,475 in donations for the Foundation. The U-46 Educational Foundation was one of the many organizations that Jane was involved in and loved so much.

“Our mother was determined to teach my brothers and I refinement, integrity, and high moral standards," shared Julie Ball, one of Jane’s four children. “In the classroom she employed the same expectations. She set high standards for her students and tirelessly worked toward a positive impact. She instilled her belief that education and being organized was the key to a fulfilling life. Her dedication to her students was lifelong.”
Pictured are, from left to right, Jane's son-in-law Rod Ball, daughter Julie Lawson-Ball, granddaughter Mary Ball, and Jane Lawson. The U-46 Educational Foundation is grateful to the Lawson family and their thoughtful selection of the Foundation as their mother's memorial, and the many friends and family who donated in her memory.
The U-46 Educational Foundation collects donations year-round. Donors can give online by clicking here, or mail donations to 355 East Chicago St., Elgin, IL 60120 with this form.
Golden K Kiwanis Club, Elgin
Elgin’s Golden K Kiwanis Club is “dedicated to serving the children of the world” so the question of whether or not to donate to the U-46 Educational Foundation was a bit of a no-brainer.
“If we’re going to be true to our motto of helping children, we thought this was the perfect kind of donation to make,” said Tom Peterson, president of the Golden K Kiwanis Club.
The Kiwanis plan to make an annual donations of $1,000 to support the Foundation’s efforts and, in turn, expand opportunities for U-46 students beyond what is possible through the standard curriculum. The club donates to other organizations in the Elgin area that serve children, but Peterson said the U-46 Educational Foundation provides a unique opportunity to make an impact on an especially large number of kids.

The U-46 Educational Foundation’s grants to the U-46 Planetarium have brought new full-dome sky shows to tens of thousands of students, and every first grader in the District will get to practice being a scientist tracking the movement of the sun, moon and stars thanks to observation notebooks distributed at the end of Planetarium visits during the 2016-17 school year.
Heart rate monitors purchased with Foundation funds gave 26,000 elementary and middle school students access to technology in their physical education classes that gives them instant readings of their heart rates. Thousands of students have attended Kidz Konzerts to see the Elgin Symphony Orchestra, thanks to a partnership between the Foundation and the ESO.
“We see it as a worthwhile cause and very helpful to the kids within the School District U-46,” Peterson said, adding that he hopes the Kiwanis donation can become seed money that inspires other prospective donors to give. “If they see what we’re donating, maybe they’ll look at what we’ve done and see that as a place to make a donation where it will do some good.”
The Golden K Kiwanis Club donated to the U-46 Educational Foundation with no strings attached. This type of gift, called “unrestricted,” gives the Foundation’s board of directors the opportunity to direct money to projects with the most pressing need or those that can have the widest impact.
The W.R. Meadows Company has consistently provided unrestricted gifts to the U-46 Educational Foundation for many years. Merrie Derderion, vice chairman of the company and granddaughter of its founder, says even though the W.R. Meadows Company is now based in Hampshire, it got its start in Elgin and it remains committed to the Elgin community.
“It’s a worthy cause to give back to,” Derderion said. “The best thing you can give children is their education. They’re the future leaders.”
Other donors to the U-46 Educational Foundation have chosen to direct their gifts toward specific projects or funds, including the Superintendent’s Scholarship or the Presidents’ Scholarship Fund, established by the Foell brothers, all three of whom served as class presidents at Elgin High School. These targeted donations have also supported Project Access, which serves the District’s homeless students, and individual schools, including Hillcrest Elementary, which enjoys a long-standing partnership with JPMorgan Chase.
The U-46 Educational Foundation collects donations year-round. Donors can give online by clicking here, or mail donations to 355 East Chicago St., Elgin, IL 60120 with this form.
Donor List
We were thrilled to welcome our new donors to the Foundation each year! We are equally flattered when one of our donors makes the thoughtful decision to donate to us year-after-year. We are grateful and humbled by your support. Thank you.
We honor those who have supported the mission of the Education Foundation.
Legacy Society
Alumni and friends who have included the U-46 Education Foundation in their estate plans become lifetime members of the Legacy Society.
David and Edith Cole - Elgin High School Alumni
Dolores "Dody" Nesbit - Elgin High School Alumni
Keith Trimmer - Larkin High School Alumni
E.C. "Bud" Wilson
Milestone Donors
Donors who have given for the past five or more years consecutively are Milestone Donors.
David Brown
Sharon Caddigan
John Carney
Dawn Curran
Scott Damisch
Dean Lodding Smiles, Ltd
Mary Essex
James Feuerborn
Dan Fox
Hampton Lenzini and Renwick Inc.
Karla Jimenez - Larkin High School Alumni
Kane County Teachers' Credit Union
Susan Kerr & Bruce Peterson
Mary O'Brien
Chandler Swan - Elgin High School Alumni
TBK Bank SSB
Don Waters
Wisdom Family Foundation
Loyalty Donors
Donors who have given for the past three to fours years consecutively are Loyalty Donors.
Rebecca Baer
Marlene Daubert
Cheryl DeRoo
Charles Dunning
Mary Fergus
Jaime Garcia
Dan Gardner
Jeff Grosser
Elizabeth Hoeft
Larry Meyer – U-46 Alumni
Ria Sedberry – U-46 Alumni
Erica Berchtold
Tara Burghart
Nancy Coleman
Heather Ersoz
Franczek Radelet
Elisabet Garcia
Golden "K" Kiwanis Club
Melissa Hartley
Selma Hasanic
Peggy Hernandez – Streamwood High School Alumni
Erin Jackle
Evita Johnson
Steven Johnson
Dr. Suzanne Johnson – U-46 Alumni
Mrs. Suzanne Johnson
Maureen Kane
Elizabeth McDonald
Kathy Mentink
Amy Messer
Christine Osberg
Matthew Punnoose
Tena Raglin
Rich Ramos
Carol Rauschenberger – U-46 Alumni
Miguel Rodriguez
Angela Rojas
Tony Sanders
Sadia Sattar – Larkin High School Alumni
Jennifer Schwardt
Chanda Schwartz
Tim Sgutt
Jennifer Shroder
Julie Tiknis
Jose Torres
& multiple anonymous donors
New or Renewed Donors
Donors who gave for the first or second time in the past school year or donors who renewed giving.
A Parts Warehouse
Munna Abdallah
Miriam Abe
Ricardo Abrilla
Annette Acevedo
Lynee Ackert
Yolotli Acosta
Bridget Amelio
American Honda Finance Corp
Jenni Anderson
Russell Anglemire
Anonymous
Veronica Aristeo
Kenneth Arndt
Ana Arroyo
Jocelyn Ashford-Yarbrough
Avid CNA School
Laura Azcoitia
Veronica Badani
David Baker
Karyn Baldwin
Garrick Balk
Harry Barnes
Anna Bell
Milena Benitez
Becky Bernasek
Harry Blizzard
Barbara Bonner
Michele Bruens
Erin Bryant
Patricia Burke – U-46 Alumni
Charles Burnidge
Dale Burnidge
Asta Buseman
Lloyd Butts
Rachel Campbell
Craig Cerniglia
Rosa Ceron
Jay Chandrasekharan
Michele Chapman-Simmons
Ed Chau
Jamie Chlopek
Neron Chua
Philip Church
Kathleen Chwee
Christine Cliff
Jennifer Collins
Brian Condon
Congregation Kneseth Israel
Ann Cook
Guadalupe Corona
Angela Costanza
Costco
Anita Crespo
Regina Crespo
Patty Curtis Drwal
Rebecca Defrancesco
Nicole Deitche
Christine Dennison
Marci DePasquale
Dipti Desai
John & Niki Devereux
Victoria Dewulf
Pablo Diaz Gonzalez
Andrea Dismuke
Donna Doherty
Carrie Doolin
Stephanie & Paul Doran -Larkin High School Alumni
Jerry Drommerhausen
JoNell Dudek
Wiley Edmondson
EFS Foundation
Lettie Ekovich
Shannon Emerson
- H. Paschen
Lisa Farinella
William Farley
Carli Fellows
Eneidy Ferguson
Jeanette Ferguson
Jennifer Fickers Braun
Tracy Field
Fischer Technical Company
Kathy Fitzpatrick
Janet Foell, through the Howard G. Foell Trust – Elgin High School Alumni
Wesley Foell – Elgin High School Alumni
Carline Fomby
Allison Fornero
Carmilita Foster
Margaret Frisch Klein
Doug Fry
Denise Furtak
Urszula Gasior
Diane Geary
Cari Gesiakowski
Carol Gieske
Dawn Glenn
Barbara Gonzalez
Maria Gonzalez
Pam Graff
Shawna Green
Lori Ann Greidanus
Janet Greshock
Steven Guenther
Mayrena Guerrero
Zindya Guerrero
Larissa Guiao
Alvin Gutierrez
Marcia Gutierrez
Jennifer Hacker – Bartlett High School Alumni
Carla Haines -U-46 Alumni
Marla Halfman
Monique Halleen
Walter Halycz
Nicole Hanneman
Angeline Hansen
Sharon Hansen
Gaye Hanson
Shelley Harris
Erin Hart
Lucille Harter
Christyn Heffron
Amy Heilman
Shawn Hendle
Caterina Hernandez
Melissa Hernandez
Christy Hilliard
Susan Hoch
Jerilyn Hofmann
Marilyn House
Leigh Howe
Alex Hudec
Jazmin Humphreys
Patti Incapreo
Anil Issac
Andrea Jackson
Lisa Jackson
Jacquelyn Jagielski
Ron Jaudon
Kurt Johansen
Dale Johnson
Nicole Johnson
Nancy Kalchbrenner – Elgin High School Alumni
Kammes Auto & Truck Repair
George Kantzavelos
David & Sandy Kaptain – U-46 Alumni
Amy Karas
Patrick Keating
Amy Kendryna
Veronica Kernler
Amena Khan
Naureen Khan
Sharon Kilgore – Elgin High School Alumni
Jeff King
Valerie Klinger
Maria Knapp
Lisa Knight
Colleen Koch
Anita Kordonowy
Anne Korponya
Tammi Kostos
Kristine Kovari
Tina LaBarbera
Mellissa LaMorte
Luisa Lara
Susan Laude
Treicy Lechuga
David Leonard
Kathy Lichthardt
Loretta Linnert
Elena Litvinova
David Liu
Diane Lomedico
Mary Ann Lonteen
Lenson Lopez
Marcelino Lopez
Aurora Lozano
Gary Lungren
Elizabeth Ma
Linda Machut
Kelly Majewski
Christine Malin
Hima Mallipeddi
Jessica Markus
Ruby Marrufo
Dawn Martin
Jeannette Martin
Nicole Martinez
Mirna Martínez
Claudia Martinez-Carter
Karen Marz
Patrick McCarthy
Marilyn McCarty-Fulton
Virginia McConnell – Elgin High School Alumni
Susan McCracken -Larkin High School Alumni
Janice McDowell
Stefan McGhee
Michael McKay
Carole Medal
Lisa Medendorp
Medical Gear LLC
Josefina Melendez
Zinya Melero
Carl Metzke
Joanne Meyer
Crystal Micucci
Angelique Miller
Theresa Miller
Derek Miranda
Keith Molof
Emily Montalbano
Monica Morado
Diane Moreno
Marisela Moreno
Mu Alpha Theta
James Mueller
Karen Mulcahy
Virginia Muller
Modesto Muniz
Pam Murdoch
Michael Myers
Agenalyn Navarro
John Navin
Dina Nelson
Sue Niles
Don Nish – Elgin High School Alumni
Desiree Norquist
Jesenia Nunez
Carol Olson
Diane O'Malley
Kate Onyibor
Oriental Trading Company
Daliha Orozco
Deborah Pangilinan
Kerry Parkin
Ajay Patel
Riva & Rivan Patel
Sonia Pavon
Lauren Pellegrino
Mario Pestaña
Amber Peters
Ruta Petrasiunaite
Kendra Pingel
Francesca Pisani
Pauline Plaza
Joel Pollack
Shanna Ponce
Mary Popovich
Eva Porter
Shellie Ptak
Jacob Punnoose
Kathy Pyeatt
Michael Ian Rabanal – Bartlett High School Alumni
Elizabeth Rabe
Lisa Rabe
Julie Radcliffe
Tom & Sue Rakow
Teresa Ramos
Angela Ratzek
Kathleen Ratzek
James Raufus
Kimberly Redmon
Henry Reinke
Marcia Reuther
Martha Reza
Rebecca Rios
Raquel Robelo
Doreen Roberts
Elena Rodriguez
Marisol Rodriguez
Root Brothers Mfg and Supply Company
Jason Rupp
RVK, inc.
Kara Ryan
Judith Sachs
Kristin Salvato
Denise Santoro
Shereen Sattar
Tanya Schield
Krysti Schrimsher
David Schuler
Robert Schweitzer
Daniel Scire
Susan Seidler
Velma Sept
Carolyn Severson
Glenn Silverio
Gareth Sitz
Craig Skowron
Keith Smiley
Jeffrey Smith
Karen Smith
Lauren Solarczyk
Marilyn Solorzano
Erin Sorellino
Staples
Suburban Elevator
Cari Switzer
Heralyn Tamayo
Erica Tasso
Linda Taylor – Larkin High School Alumni
Judith Tepe
Shaun Terranova
Matthew Thode
Patricia Tittle
David & Nancy Tonge – Larkin & Elgin High Schools Alumni
Fanjola Torollari
Katherine Turner
Jerry Turnquist
Morgan Twardowski
Bruce Twomley- Elgin High School Alumni
U46 Forward
Veronica Ulreich
Alison Upton-Dunmore
Karina Valles
Hung Van
Tom VanBooven
Mary VanSlyck – Elgin High School Alumni
Joel Vazquez
Noe Velazquez
Jovita Villanueva – Elgin High School Alumni
Walmart, Elgin
Linda Walsh
Marilyn Watson
Rita Weber
David Wedemeyer
Lori Wenzel
Lisa White
Brittany L. Whiteside
Magdalena Wiktorko
Lois Wilhelm
Karleen Williams
Kevin Young
Thomas Youngren
Habiba Zahid
Svitlana Zaichenko
Stephanie Zak
Amy Zapata
Carl Zeigler
Christine Zugel
& several anonymous donors
2019-2020
Corporations or Groups
Alignment Collaborative for Education |
| Balance Family Chiropractic |
| Bartlett High School, Athletic Dept. |
| Berna Moving & Storage |
| Clearwater Capital Partners |
| Century Oaks Social Committee |
| Clearwater Capital Partners |
| ComEd, an Exelon Company |
| Congregation Kneseth Israel of Elgin |
Dean Lodding Smiles, Ltd |
| Domino's Chicagoland MARR Chicago Pizza |
| DUEA |
| Educational Support Services (ESSO) |
| Elgin Sweeper, Jetstream, and MRL |
| Essential Water Technologies |
| Franczek Radelet |
| Go With the Flow |
Hampton Lenzini and Renwick Inc. |
| Heidner Property Management |
| Inspired Graphic & Apparel Design |
Kane County Teachers' Credit Union |
| Kiwanis Club of Elgin--Golden K |
| Larkin High School Math Honor Society |
Marco |
| Meemic Foundation |
| Midwest Transit Equipment |
| Northrop Grumman Foundation |
| Prairie Farms Dairy |
| Print Loop |
Seventh-Day Adventist Church of Elgin |
TBK Bank SSB |
| Tidwell Construction |
| Wesley United Methodist Church |
| Windy City Bulls |
Wisdom Foundation |
Individual Donors A-G
| Munna | Abdallah |
| Sharon | Alexander |
| Amie | Anderson |
| Roger | Anna |
| Veronica | Aristeo |
| Serena | Armas |
| Elizabeth | Armistead |
| Kenneth | Arndt |
| Peggy | Ayello |
| Kenneth | Azinger |
| Tyler | Baasch |
Rebecca |
Baer |
| Michael | Baggot |
| Mike | Bailey |
| Karyn | Baldwin |
| Michelle | Baldwin |
| Garrick | Balk |
| Celia | Banks |
| Harry | Barnes |
| Katie | Benson |
| Lisa | Benson |
| Erica | Berchtold |
| Vicki | Bersch |
| Barbara | Bettis |
| Harry | Blizzard |
| Gary | Bowen |
| Sreeni | Boyapati |
David |
Brown |
| Tara | Burghart |
| Bruce | Burke |
| Molly | Burke |
| Patricia | Burke |
| Lisa | Burnell |
|
Charles |
Burnidge |
| Jen and Larry | Bury |
| Sara | Butler |
Sharon |
Caddigan |
| Jennifer | Cardellino |
John |
Carney |
Alison |
Carr |
| Lisa | Cartee |
| Deryn | Carter |
|
Charles |
Cassell |
| Beda | Castrejon |
| Ruth | Cavanaugh |
| Julie | Chadwick |
| Ann | Chan |
| Neron | Chua |
| Christine | Cliff |
| Nancy | Coleman |
| Ann | Cook |
| Maria | Cormier |
| Angela | Costanza |
| Geraldine | Crider |
Dean |
Culotta |
Dawn |
Curran |
| Jolene | Dambra |
Scott |
Damisch
|
| Erin | Damisch |
Marlene |
Daubert |
| Linda | Dawson |
Cheryl |
DeRoo |
| Niti | Desai |
| John | Devereux |
| Shawn | Dicus |
| Brendyn | Dobbeck |
|
Stephanie |
Doran |
Terry |
Dunning |
| Mary | Dyer |
| Lettie | Ekovich |
| Kristin | Embury |
| Sarah | Engstrom |
| Heather | Ersoz |
| Leticia | Esparza |
Mary |
Essex |
| Heather | Fagan |
| Dena | Fagan |
| Eileen | Fay |
Mary |
Fergus |
James |
Feuerborn |
| Sharon | Flam |
| Cynthia | Flowers |
| Andrea | Flynn |
Dan |
Fox |
| Gina | Freehill |
| Margaret | Frisch Klein |
| Denise | Furtak |
| Hallie | Furtak |
| Elisabet | Garcia |
Jaime |
Garcia |
Dan |
Gardner |
| Diane | Geary |
| Cindy | Gemmell |
| Jill | Gerovac |
| Anna | Ghiotti |
| Pamela | Gieseke |
| Tim | Gilbert |
| Aleli | Go |
| Caridad | Goetz |
| Pam | Graff |
| Amy | Grantham |
Jeff |
Grosser |
| Diana | Gunsteen |
| Karen | Gutenkauf |
| Josefin | Guthrie |
Individual Donors H-O
| Elizabeth | Hadley |
|
Carla |
Haines |
| Janelle | Hall-Skank |
| Melissa | Hartley |
| Selma | Hasanic |
| Shamim | Hashmi |
| Tamara | Heider |
| Katherine | Heikkinen |
| Deborah | Heiser |
| Peggy | Hernandez |
| Julie | Hill |
| Laura | Hill |
| Lance | Hill |
| David | Hintz |
| Heather | Hodge |
Elizabeth |
Hoeft |
| Jerilyn | Hofmann |
| Mary | Hogan |
| Jeff | Horler |
| Leigh | Howe |
| Steve | Hoyt |
| Alex | Hudec |
| Daniel | Infusino |
| Erin | Jackle |
| Joan | Jackson |
| Agne | Januskis |
| Ron | Jaudon |
| Wayne | Jensen |
Karla |
Jimenez |
| Tom | Johannesen |
|
Suzanne |
Johnson |
| Evita | Johnson |
| Steven | Johnson |
| Suzanne | Johnson |
| Larry | Jones |
| Jen | Jurkynas |
| Rebecca | Jurs-Poole |
| kim | kalousek |
| Maureen | Kane |
| David | Kaptain |
| Billie | Karnatz |
| Michael | Kenyon |
Susan |
Kerr |
Donna |
Kielbasa |
| Sharon | Kilgore |
| Lisa | Knight |
| Kaitlyn | Kobida |
| Evangeline | Kornaros |
| Kimberly | Kowall |
| Hye Rim | Kwon |
| Tina | LaBarbera |
| Alicia | Landes |
| Kathy | Larson |
| Maya | Lask |
| Jacques | Latta |
| Audrey | Leaver |
| Andrew | LeGoff |
| Karen | Lemke |
| Amelia | LeTourneau |
| Aurora | Lozano |
| Adelaida | Luna |
| Elizabeth | Ma |
| Laura | Machuca |
| Maureen | Mack |
| Kelly | Majewski |
| Lela | Majstorovic |
| Ana | Maldonado |
| Carol | Mammoser |
| Rosemary | Manimbo |
| Jennifer | Mariman |
| Ross | Marshall |
| Santiago | Martin |
| Patrick | McCarthy |
| Marilyn | McCarty-Fulton |
|
Susan |
McCracken |
| Elizabeth | McDonald |
| Joan | McDonald-Hill |
| Glenn "Max" | McGee |
| Michael | McKay |
| Katie | McNulty |
| Carole | Medal |
| James | Medcalf |
| Lisa | Medendorp |
| Aurora | Medina |
| David | Mehl |
| Kathy | Mentink |
| Mariano | Mercado |
| Lisa | Mercado |
| Amy | Messer |
Larry |
Meyer
|
| Megan | Meyer |
| Kelly | Miedwig |
| Riley | Milbrandt |
| Rebecca and Mike | Miller |
| Marc | Mota |
| Arleen | Muniz |
| Dave | Muntz |
| Pam | Murdoch |
| Rebecca | Narofsky |
| Maryana | Nava Garcia |
| Agenalyn | Navarro |
| John | Navin |
| Yesica | Nicolas |
| Jee | Noh |
| Leslie | Noll |
| Judy | Norkus |
| Desi | Norquist |
Mary |
O'Brien |
| Sarah | O'Brien |
| Jean | O'Connor |
| Julie | O'Connor |
| Paulette | Ollie |
| Christa | Olsen |
| Maria | Olsen |
| Carol | Olson |
Carolyn |
O'Neal |
| Debra | Oplt |
| Christine | Osberg |
| John | Ozcomert |
Individual Donors P-Z
| Sofia | Padilla |
| Michael | Pajeau |
| Jo Ellen | Pamintuan |
| Ashish | Patel |
| Rachael | Patterson |
| Lisa | Pawlowski |
| Kerry | Pentecost |
| Madison | Peppa |
| Amanda | Peppa |
| Deborah | Perez |
| Emma | Perry |
| Bill | Peterson |
| Eric | Petersonn |
| Ruta | Petrasiunaite |
| Mary | Popovich |
| Eva | Porter |
| Candace | Postol |
| Jennifer | Poturalski |
| Catherine | Pryor |
| Matthew | Punnoose |
| Kristen | Rabe Zwolski |
| Tena | Raglin |
| Viji | Ramesh |
| Richard | Ramos |
| Becky | Rauen |
|
Carol |
Rauschenberger |
| Kathleen | Reppin |
| Doreen | Roberts |
| Leonard | Robles |
| Miguel | Rodriguez |
| Elena | Rodriguez |
| Angela | Rojas |
| Kimberly | Roman |
| Jacob | Rosborough |
| Joseph | Rosenfeld |
| George | Rowe |
| Rebecca | Rydell |
| Jona | Sagadraca |
| Sarosh and Kamal | Saher |
| Nereyda | SanchezTio |
| Tony | Sanders |
| Sadia | Sattar |
| Tanya | Schield |
| Krista | Schifferer |
| Daniel | Schmerber |
| Lisa | Schnaedter |
| Jennifer | Schwardt |
| Chanda | Schwartz |
| Daniel | Scire |
Ria |
Sedberry |
| Velma | Sept |
| Tim | Sgutt |
| Ian | Shaw |
| Colleen | Sheehy |
| Harold | Shepherd |
| Daniel | Sherman |
| Jennifer | Shroder |
| Tracy | Siligmueller |
| Sarah | Sitter |
| Gareth | Sitz |
| Nicole | Skrzypchak |
| Amyra | Smerecky |
| James | Smith |
Maureen |
Stabile |
| Brian | Stark |
| Jean | Steffens |
| Scott | Sternal |
| Melissa | Stevenson |
| Kelly | Stibal |
| Donna | Stiegel |
| Joanne | Suleiman |
| Emily | Surridge |
Chandler |
Swan
|
| Cari | Switzer |
| Alan | Sydor |
| Andrea | Teschky |
|
Elizabeth |
Thrasher |
| Brittany | Thull |
| Kelsey | Tichenor |
| Julie | Tiknis |
| Deana | Tomczyk |
| Carli | Tomczyk |
| Isabel | Torres |
| Jose | Torres |
| Brigid | Trimble |
| Jerry | Turnquist |
| Nancy | Valdez |
| Yasmin | Valdivia |
| Annemarie | Van de Wouw |
| Tom | VanBooven |
| Hayley | Vargas |
| Evelyn | Vega |
| Noe | Velazquez |
| Tina | Venable |
| Toni | Vineyard |
| Lynn | Ward |
| Brian | Warnock |
Don |
Waters |
| Marilyn | Watson |
| Lorraine | Wells |
| John | Whitmer |
| E.C. "Bud" | Wilson |
| Wendy | Witt |
| Amy | Witz |
| Kelly | Wroten |
| Jan | Yee |
| Deanne | Ziegler |
What You Support
- Teacher Grants
- Innovation Mini Grants
- Heart Monitors
- Planetarium
- Scholarships
- Alumni Registry
- Dual Language Portfolio Certification Scholarship
- Teacher Appreciation Week
- Grant Programs
Teacher Grants

These grants fund projects, programs, and supplies, and equipment that teachers utilize for innovative teaching. Ideally, the enhanced learning experiences made possible through the U-46 Foundation's teacher mini grants create a unique approach to learning using tools and techniques that are not covered in the traditional District U-46 budget.
The U-46 Educational Foundation is excited to have $25,000 in funding for U-46 teacher and staff grants, and applications will be made available after the start of the school year. Grants from the U-46 Educational Foundation fund initiatives that enhance U-46 student learning or well-being. This could include classroom or academic needs, projects related to the fine arts, ideas that reinforce students' social/emotional learning, extra-curricular clubs or teams, and more.
Since these are awarded using several criteria, try to be as descriptive as possible and include any and all information you think would be helpful. Below you will find general information about the application and a list of FAQs.
Grant Application
The application will ask you for a project title, an objective, a short description of your project/program/item, the timeline you are proposing, and possible outcomes or benefits.
Think about how many people might be impacted by your grant idea, and include this information if possible.
Think about the make-up of students or others involved in your grant idea, and include this if possible ( grade level of the students, whether they are minority students, students with special challenges, or students with free/reduced lunch, etc.).
You will need to tell us how much money you are specifically asking for, and provide an itemized budget for items you are hoping to purchase. There is a box you can check to indicate that you would accept partial funding through the U-46 Foundation. Grant awards can range from $200 to $1,000. If your grant project exceeds $1,000, you should still apply - the Grants committee can consider choosing projects that exceed the limit.
Here are just a few more things to keep in mind:
- All grant applications are reviewed by the Administration during the screening process, but it's strongly suggested that you have the approval of your principal/department head before applying.
- Salaries, professional development, and food items are among things NOT ELIGIBLE for grant funding.
- Technology-related purchases must be approved by the District Information Services Department.
Grant FAQs
- What kinds of projects have received grant funding in the past?
- What is the deadline for my application?
- Who can apply, and can I apply for more than one grant?
- How are grant receipients selected?
- When will I know if I received a grant?
- How will I receive my grant funds?
- Do grant funds have to be used this school year?
- Anything else I should expect when applying for/receiving a grant?
- How does the Foundation get the money used to fund teacher and staff grants?
- What if I have a question not answered above?
What kinds of projects have received grant funding in the past?
What is the deadline for my application?
Who can apply, and can I apply for more than one grant?
How are grant receipients selected?
Grants are evaluated by the U-46 Educational Foundation’s Allocations Committee using a rubric. Among other criteria, they look for how the project/program impacts the academic, social/emotional, or safety needs of students, and whether grants would impact/benefit marginalized student groups.
Grants selected by the Allocations Committee then move on to review by the District leadership to ensure that the project can be completed as described.
Projects cannot violate FERPA or the IDEA Act or any standing District policies. It is in the best interest of the grant applicant to check with his or her supervisor before submitting a grant proposal in order to ensure that the grant idea can be completed as described.
When will I know if I received a grant?
How will I receive my grant funds?
Grant recipients may submit a receipt for items purchased, and receive reimbursement for these expenses. If this is not the most feasible method for purchasing grant items, other arrangements can be made on a case by case basis. For example, the Foundation can prepare a check to be sent to a vendor that provides an invoice. Items can also be purchased using the Foundation’s Amazon.com account. We understand that grant purchasing isn’t a one-size-fits-all arrangement, and we will work with you. Final receipts or invoices must be submitted by the end of the school year in order to be paid/reimbursed.
Do grant funds have to be used this school year?
Yes, grant funds apply only to the school year for which they are awarded. Unused grant funding does not roll over to subsequent school years. This includes funds that have not been requested with an invoice or receipt by the end of the school year and checks that have not been cashed within 90 days of being issued. Uncashed checks older than 90 days may be voided.
Anything else I should expect when applying for/receiving a grant?
Prior to filling out an application, be sure to check with your building administrator to ensure that your project can be completed as described.
If you are awarded a grant, you will be expected to complete an evaluation of your grant project, due at the end of the school year. Evaluations should include photos from your project/program. So don't forget to take pictures that reflect the purpose of your project! ALSO, if you include students in your photos, please indicate that they have a media release consent form on file at your school. The U-46 Foundation needs to know upfront if select photos can be used to promote the Foundation when fundraising, updating the website, and posting on social media.
How does the Foundation get the money used to fund teacher and staff grants?
The Foundation's funding comes from your generous support! When U-46 employees, families, and community members donate to the Foundation, we use that money to fund these grants for our teachers and staff. Your support of Employee Campaigns, Annual Appeals, #GivingTuesday, and more, makes these grants possible. Thank you! We couldn't do it without you.
What if I have a question not answered above?
Previous Grant Recipients
Grants from the U-46 Educational Foundation fund our teachers' and staff's bright ideas, creating opportunities that expand student learning and well-being. Grants also help our community partners who are doing important work in our area to benefit U-46 students.
In the past four years, the Foundation has proudly funded nearly 100 grants to teachers, staff, and community partners.
2024-2025
The U-46 Educational Foundation awarded more than $17,000 in grants to 23 teachers and staff for the 2024-25 school year. Here is the list and descriptions of their grant requests:
- Whiteboard Learning
Description: Provide individual whiteboards to students for visible learning in small group team activities with engaged participation.
Submitted by Danalea Warrick at Clinton Elementary School
- Classroom Book Sets and Incentives
Description: Improve student participation with read-aloud book sets, improved seating and prize box.
Submitted by Miya Mesa at Willard Elementary School
- Place Value math boards and Improved Seating
Description: Providing alternate seating while helping students with problem solving and understanding math concepts.
Submitted by Ashley Lindemann at Willard Elementary School
- Flexible Seating
Description: Increased participation and motivation with improved seating options that help with focus and control.
Submitted by Sandra Lionello at Prairieview Elementary School
- Spot of Belonging
Description: Book sets that would help regulate emotions and create a “Spot of Belonging” for students needing help with Social Emotional Learning skills.
Submitted by Jennifer Schwardt at Horizon Elementary School
- Cheerleading Competition
Description: Transportation expenses for four competitions during the school year
Submitted by Kristen Rosenberg at Kimball Middle School
- Calm Down Corner
Description: Items that help with self-regulation would be kept in a designated area of the gym and be available to any student who needed access to the “Calm Down Corner”
Submitted by Katie Csapo at Illinois Park Early Learning Center
- Classroom Improvement
Description: Implementation of various items that would add to overall improvement, including alternate seating, LCD boards, privacy folder sets, and a Bluetooth sound bar.
Submitted by Sydney Bartlett at Willard Elementary
- Recognition Tees
Description: Customized t-shirts used as recognition for students in PE, Health and other Electives who show exemplary work.
Submitted by Tony Mangano at Tefft Middle School
- Indoor Outdoor Gross Motor Activities
Description: A rotation of supplies for indoor and outdoor use that encourage participation in team-building and encourage overall physical growth.
Submitted by Marina Reutenauer at Illinois Park Early Learning Center
- Flexible Deskible
Description: Flexible furniture that helps maximize a small space and gives it the flexibility to meet the needs of various learning experiences.
Submitted by Shannon Pennington at Dream Academy
- Essentials Exchange Upgrade
Description: Supplies and fixtures that will improve and stabilize the Essentials Exchange, a free Pop-up Shop that provides supplies for students at no cost.
Submitted by Genevieve Hebeka at South Elgin High School
- Caudill Book Sets
Description: A set of Caudill Award nominee books gives students more diverse choices in their reading, and students who read the books are eligible to choose their favorite, which the school may then submit in February’s official Caudill Award voting.
Submitted by Jennifer Svec at Sunnydale Elementary School
- Diversity and Inclusion Book Club
Description: Books that offer increased exposure to elements of diversity, and will be purchased in both English and Spanish in genres of Realistic Fiction, Historical Fiction, Non-Fiction, and Poetry.
Submitted by Abigale King at Heritage Elementary School
- Library Book Display Bins
Description: Library book bins with “face-out” displays, giving children an easier, less anxious experience when browsing for books.
Submitted by Judy Dutton at Sunnydale Elementary School
- 26-Day Read Aloud Countdown
Description: This grant supplies the books for an End-of-the-Year 26-Day Read Aloud Countdown that keeps students engaged as the school year winds down, and also motivates students to read over the summer.
Submitted by Nicole Senn at Channing Elementary School
- Student Success by Student Support Advocates
Description: This Student Success program motivates students to show respect, responsibility, and good citizenship by having a reward system administered by Student Support Advocates.
Submitted by Elizabeth O’Loughlin at Eastview Middle School
- Identity Through Art
Description: An after-school art project held from February thru May for 4th – 6th-grade dual language students. Students will work with the help of their teachers and Zoom sessions with Mexican artist Rocio Klapes, on sketching and painting canvases that explore bi-cultural identities.
Submitted by Erika Aoki at Hilltop Elementary School
- Calm Corner
Description: Supplies that make up a “Calm Corner” for students include sensory boxes, carpet squares, calming and sensory items, and more, which help students find calm and focus when needed.
Submitted by Yomaira Campos at Sunnydale Elementary School
- Care Closet supplies
Description: “Care Closet” supplies that are used to support students and families in need of help with calming and mindfulness.
Submitted by Megan Turner at Channing Elementary School
- The Arts in Preschool
Description: A collection of materials that gives young students more robust educational experience in art, music, and dramatic play – hopefully leading to a lifelong love of the visual and performing arts.
Submitted by Natalie Koessl at Sycamore Trails Elementary School
- Science Olympiad
Description: Supplies for various science experiments that will help keep Eastview students able to stay competitive in the Science Olympiad competitions in January and April.
Submitted by Heather Flick at Eastview Middle School
- Parkwood Drama Llamas tees
Description: T-shirts for the Parkwood Elementary 3rd and 4th grade Drama Llama club members to wear as their “costumes” when they perform for an audience.
Submitted by Jennifer Collins at Parkwood Elementary School
2023-2024
The U-46 Educational Foundation awarded more than $16,000 for the following 2023-24 grants:
- After School Yoga club
Description: Teach methods to find relaxation through practicing yoga.
Submitted by Lucia Martinez at Channing Elementary School
- Outdoor School Beautification
Description: Allow students with intellectual disabilities to work as a team to create a good first impression for the school entryway.
Submitted by Derek Hunter at Bartlett High School
- XY Axis Graph Magnetic Dry-Erase boards
Description: Increase engagement and improve student outcomes by allowing students to work in teams and support each other using more specialized equipment.
Submitted by Tim Kolanko at Elgin High School
- Diverse Read-Aloud and Reading Group book sets and supports
Description: Providing students with more diverse texts and strong protagonist characters, as well as flexible seating and the ability to time their reading breaks.
Submitted by Miya Mesa at Willard Elementary School
- Dash Robots and Stop-Motion Animation Materials
Description: To promote improvement of digital literacy skills, enhance STEM experiences, and foster creativity, innovation, teamwork, critical thinking, and communication skills.
Submitted by Alyssa Reeser at Fox Meadow Elementary School
- Sensory Integration for Early Learners
Description: To provide preschoolers with more sensory options in the classroom that help regulate emotions and promote active learning.
Submitted by Brighid Weisheit at Laurel Hill Elementary School
- Save Paper Go Digital
Description: Teaching art with the use of a large specialized digital tablet.
Submitted by Tom Groholski at Nature Ridge Elementary School
- SEL - Fidgets
Description: Promote an environment that will support the social-emotional learning needs of students.
Submitted by Donna Kielbasa at Canton Middle School
- Start the day with STEM
Description: Encourage students to be innovative and learn to collaborate with others.
Submitted by Tomeika Jones at Ronald O’Neal Elementary
- Horizon Garden Club
Description: Seeking to educate and inspire young students to learn about the environment through garden exploration.
Submitted by Michele Brodbeck at Horizon Elementary School
- Phoenix Level-Up Lounge
Description: Create a collaborative community space where students can build teamwork, confidence, and social emotional skills, such as self-awareness, social-awareness, and relationship skills through video gaming in the student lounge.
Submitted by Alisa Christensen at Dream Academy
- Seussical the Musical Jr.
Description: To provide a musical theater experience for all students so they gain skills in singing, acting, and dancing, while learning how to work together as a team and perform a full-scale musical with props, costumes, and set pieces.
Submitted by Alexander Molliwell at Timber Trails Elementary School
- Exploring Revolutions: Art Institute Field Trip for Comparative Analysis
Description: Enhance the World History curriculum by providing Larkin students in the Dual Language program with the opportunity to conduct on-site research at the Art Institute of Chicago.
Submitted by Arley Valdez-Barajas at Larkin High School
- Broadway in Chicago
Description: The objective of this workshop is to have a professional actor lead a workshop with our students in the Visual and Performing Arts Drama Academy.
Submitted by Frank Rose at Larkin High School
- Soft Start Activities – Getting Ready to Learn
Description: By using a variety of manipulatives and fine-motor activities, students will be able to get settled, get ready, and actively engage at the start of each school day.
Submitted by Sharon Fessler at Willard Elementary School
- The Walking Classroom Educational Podcasts
Description: Students will learn from podcasts while preparing their bodies and minds to learn as part of a before-school walking club.
Submitted by Kim Siegwarth at Otter Creek Elementary School
- Future Problem Solvers Club
Description: Funding for FPS state competition.
Submitted by Ellen Smith at Glenbrook Elementary School
- Parkwood Drama Llamas Sound System and shirts
Description: Purchase a small sound system to enhance performances and to build a strong group identity and club pride through troupe t-shirts for all Drama Llamas.
Submitted by Jennifer Collins at Parkwood Elementary School
2022-2023
2022-2023
The U-46 Educational Foundation awarded more than $23,000 in grants for the following 2022-23 projects:
- Project Name: 21st Century Learning Space
Description: Transform room into space for collaborative student learning
Teacher/Staff/Community Member: Heather Heatley
School/Group: Wayne Elementary School
- Project Name: Author Vibes
Description: Blank books for English Language Learners to write and illustrate their own books
Teacher/Staff/Community Member: Diana Bribesca
School/Group: Highland Elementary School
- Project Name: Book Club Book Sets
Description: Sets of books for classroom use to create book clubs
Teacher/Staff/Community Member: Kim Stancl
School/Group: Creekside Elementary School
- Project Name: Bringing Designs to Life
Description: Supplies and printers to bring computer-generated designs from screen to product
Teacher/Staff/Community Member: Patricia Weithofer
School/Group: Tefft Middle School
- Project Name: Calming Corner Tools for Our School
Description: Classroom calming zones to help a student de-escalate when upset
Teacher/Staff/Community Member: Carmina Larson
School/Group: Ontarioville Elementary School
- Project Name: Desk Bells for Students
Description: Desk bells to help students learn about pitch and reading music
Teacher/Staff/Community Member: Lynne Schefke
School/Group: Huff Elementary School
- Project Name: Diversity in Literacy and Classroom Student Supports
Description: Books with diverse protagonists; chair pockets
Teacher/Staff/Community Member: Claire Jakaitis
School/Group: Willard Elementary School
- Project Name: Family Literacy Night
Description: Family Literacy Night to mark the end of One Book, One School event
Teacher/Staff/Community Member: Katie Stan
School/Group: Otter Creek Elementary School
- Project Name: Future Problem Solvers Club
Description: Funding for FPS state competition
Teacher/Staff/Community Member: Ellen Smith
School/Group: Schools with FPS participants
- Project Name: FVR Library Books
Description: Free voluntary reading books for world language students at South Elgin High School
Teacher/Staff/Community Member: Aimee Solmo
School/Group: South Elgin High School
- Project Name: Garden Tools
Description: Shovels to expand and maintain the current school garden
Teacher/Staff/Community Member: Lisa Burnell
School/Group: Horizon Elementary School
- Project Name: Game On!
Description: Board games for deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) students
Teacher/Staff/Community Member: Zainab Sheth
School/Group: Horizon Elementary School
- Project Name: Hornet’s Closet
Description: Free hygiene supplies, clothing, and shoes for students in need
Teacher/Staff/Community Member: Sarah Koltonuk
School/Group: Central Schools Program
- Project Name: Inside Sensory Path
Description: Sensory path in hallway
Teacher/Staff/Community Member: Darla Tolva
School/Group: Nature Ridge Elementary School
- Project Name: Kinder”garden” Outdoor Learning Space
Description: Utilize large outdoor patio area to allow for hands-on, real-life learning experiences
Teacher/Staff/Community Member: Elizabeth Bowen
School/Group: Nature Ridge Elementary School
- Project Name: Parkwood Readers’ Theater Troupe and Resources
Description: Drama Club using readers’ theater resources
Teacher/Staff/Community Member: Jennifer Collins
School/Group: Parkwood Elementary School
- Project Name: Sensory Path
Description: Sensory path in hallway
Teacher/Staff/Community Member: Brenda Morones
School/Group: Centennial Elementary School
- Project Name: Sensory Walk
Description: Floor decals for a sensory walk
Teacher/Staff/Community Member: Cristin Zaputil
School/Group: Hanover Countryside Elementary School
- Project Name: Sixth Grade Book Club
Description: Books for weekly book clubs to discuss the theme, characters, and conflicts in the books they are reading
Teacher/Staff/Community Member: Jennifer Svec
School/Group: Sunnydale Elementary School
- Project Name: The Elgin Wrestling Video & Scoring System
Description: Tablets and software to film and score matches
Teacher/Staff/Community Member: Gary Parciak
School/Group: Elgin High School
- Project Name: Ukrainian Library Books
Description: Provide our Ukrainian newcomers access to books in their native language
Teacher/Staff/Community Member: Jenny Trygar
School/Group: Liberty Elementary School
- Project Name: Voces del Corazon/Voices from the Heart
Description: Prizes, art supplies and decorations to celebrate the Dual Language Program
Teacher/Staff/Community Member: Sara Robles
School/Group: All Dual Language Schools
Innovation Mini Grants

In January 2019, the U-46 Educational Foundation awarded mini-grants of up to $500 each to eight teachers across the District to support their bright new ideas in teaching and learning. U-46 Educational Foundation Board members throughout the school day surprised teachers in their classrooms with the awards, called Innovation Mini-Grants.
The Foundation funded projects such as the start of a family book club, a mentoring program for students, and high school biotechnology experiments. The Foundation Board selected the winning projects from 27 proposals.
“Each of these grants will provide activities that enhance, enrich, and complement existing opportunities in U-46 for students, families, and staff,” said U-46 Educational Foundation Board President Bud Wilson. “We are excited to continue supporting innovative programs in U-46 in the years ahead.”
A video recapping the mini-grant delivery can be viewed here.
The list of winning recipients are as follows:
|
Grant Recipient |
Position |
School |
Project |
|
Philip Church |
Science Teacher |
Bartlett High School |
Biotechnology |
|
Sarah Rabe |
Principal |
Centennial Elementary School |
Sensory Paths |
|
Lisa Holbrook |
MTSS Lead Teacher |
Elgin High School |
Maroon Mentoring Program |
|
Heather Flick |
Science Teacher |
Eastview Middle School |
Eastview Science Olympiad Team Supplies |
|
Rachel Pinkepank |
Title 1 Teacher Interventionist |
Hillcrest Elementary School |
Hillcrest Families Read! A Parent-Child Book Club |
|
Michelle Esmenda |
Secretary |
Glenbrook Elementary School |
Glenbrook Elementary Outdoor Marquee |
|
Hayley Levitan |
School Psychologist |
Ontarioville Elementary School |
Flexible Seating |
|
Martha Laskus |
Early Childhood Teacher |
Horizon Elementary School |
Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Program: Table and Manipulatives |
Heart Monitors
Heart Monitors
Grants for PE heart rate monitors reach every student in U-46

Elementary school students in School District U-46 get at least 40 minutes of physical education once each week. Part of the curriculum has long been to teach students how to measure their heart rates manually when engaging in physical activity, and the value of knowing their heart rates. But asking students to calculate their heart rates can take several precious minutes away from more heart-healthy physical activity. The U-46 Educational Foundation stepped in to support the life lesson.
With a $5,000 grant during the 2014-15 school year, the Foundation made it possible for the District to purchase a digital heart rate monitor for every elementary school. In one fell swoop, 20,000 students got a chance to use a new piece of technology that offered immediate readings of their heart rates. Now, letting students determine whether they have reached their target heart rates doesn’t requires interrupting P.E. class time at all.
Later that same school year, the middle school physical education teachers applied for a similar foundation grant, using their $5,000 to buy monitors for each P.E. teacher in all eight middle schools.
Tracey Jakaitis, coordinator of PE, health and wellness, said the initial donations from the Foundation gave the U-46 physical education instructors an opportunity to start small with an unfamiliar initiative.
“It’s a lot less stressful when you start with one or two and then have 12,” Jakaitis said. “Teachers were comfortable with the technology so now they can handle 12.”

The District has since purchased hundreds more heart rate monitors, doubling down on an early investment that has paid off in student engagement and class-time productivity. After one school year with the first round of tools, every physical education teacher considered buying more to be a top priority. During the 2016-17 school year, the District rolled out the technology to all of the high schools, too.
Kids love using the technology and it motivates them to pay attention to their heart rates, a positive step for their long-term health. What’s more, the devices are sturdy. They’ll last forever with occasional battery changes, extending the reach of that initial investment to thousands more students.
“If you divide it out by kid, it’s a minimal cost,” Jakaitis said. “And it was a pretty big impact.”
Planetarium
Planetarium
U-46 Educational Foundation helps inspire future scientists and star-lovers

Elgin School District U-46 Planetarium teacher Peggy Hernandez, working in the historic building on Watch Street during her first year in the position, opened the door to an older gentleman. He was in town visiting relatives and wanted to stop by a place he visited often as a child. After graduating from U-46, the man went on to study astronomy and become a college professor in North Carolina.
Hernandez says such visits are not rare. Adults stop by, sometimes decades after they last visited the planetarium, and they remember what they learned back then – even what seat they sat in when they learned it.
Since it opened in 1963, the U-46 Planetarium has served more than 1 million children.
“One little girl last week stood up to leave and came over and hugged me by the waist,” Hernandez said. “She said ‘This is so awesome. I love this place. I want to be a scientist.’ When they’re walking out, I often hear that. They say to their friends, ‘This is so cool. I can’t wait until we get back here.’”
The planetarium has been one of the greatest beneficiaries of the U-46 Educational Foundation, receiving $20,000 in grants since the foundation’s inception in 2008. The foundation has made full-dome planetarium shows possible, bridging an otherwise insurmountable gap between the program budget and the cost of the shows.
Videos need to be specially designed to be viewed on the curved dome of the planetarium, but having a projector that can display such videos and the programs themselves creates an immersive experience for visitors.
Thanks to the U-46 Educational Foundation, students can learn about the dawn of the space age and the science behind the movement of the sun, earth and moon on a massive screen.
What’s more, the U-46 Educational Foundation made it possible for first graders to leave the “The Moon” program with their own notebooks to track the patterns they see in the moon and their view of the constellations at home. With new information in mind and notebooks in hand, these students can become scientists themselves, making observations and drawings that astronomers made centuries ago.

While most of these students won’t become astronomers themselves, Hernandez knows many will get jobs in science-related fields. The economy will demand it. And even those who don’t may find themselves looking up at the sky as adults, thinking back to their time in U-46 and the lessons they learned in the planetarium – some, courtesy of the Educational Foundation.
“It’s just neat to make that connection and experience that wonderment and know that it’s permanent,” Hernandez said. “This isn’t just a workbook or a little extra activity that you do in the classroom. This is something that kids can really, really remember.”
The U-46 Planetarium is open to students in and outside of U-46, community groups and, through occasional sky shows, the public. For more information about programs and upcoming events, visit the planetarium website.
Scholarships
To learn more about establishing a scholarship or donating to existing ones, individuals, community groups, families, or businesses should contact the U-46 Educational Foundation at foundation@u-46.org.
The U-46 Educational Foundation manages several scholarships, including:
- The Superintendent's Scholarship
- The Lisa Mercado Memorial Scholarship For Bilingual Students
- The Douglas Hoeft Scholarship
- The Gilbert I. Renner Scholarship
- The EHS Maroon's Leadership Fund
- The David & Edith Cole Scholarships
- The Dody Nesbit Scholarship Fund
- The Frances Turnquist Scholarship.
- The Elgin High School PTO Scholarship
- The Carolyn Van Slyck Memorial Scholarship
- Dual Language Portfolio Certification Scholarship
- LEAD Academy Aspiring Leaders Scholarship
Applications for these scholarships can be accessed through the U-46 Educational Foundation online application here.
The following scholarships are affiliated with the U-46 Educational Foundation, but have their own application.
- The Dr. Jean Bowen Scholarship Fund (apply at SEHS English office)
- The John A. Krafft Scholarship (apply at Elgin High School Athletic office)
- The Elgin Breakfast Rotary G. Michael Greene Scholarship
- The Malik M. Brown Memorial Scholarship
- The Alice Pragman Award for English Excellence
If you are looking for the Ron Raglin Teaching and Learning Scholarship, click here. The scholarship is still offered within U-46, but it is now affiliated with the Ron Raglin GameChangers.
Scholarship Season is closer than you think!
If you are part of the Class of 2026, it is time to start planning life after graduation! Watch here for the U-46 Foundation's Online Scholarship Application Portal to open after winter break. It's never too early to start thinking about college requirements and essay questions.
Are you ready for your college application essays? Here are some examples of questions asked that can help you prepare ahead of time:
- Explain why you think this scholarship should be awarded to you.
- Why is being bilingual important to you?
- How did you become interested in STEM?
- Who were your greatest influences in choosing your field of study?
- Why is a career in public education important to you?
- What would make you a good teacher?
- Describe a significant obstacle you have faced and how you overcame it.
- What should our country do to foster a higher level of competence in our population?
- How does continuing your education contribute to your life's ambition?
- How are your planned college studies important to your career goals?
- What do you think the field of education will look like in ten years?
Foundation Scholarship Programs
Superintendent Scholarships
G Michael Greene Scholarship
LEAD Academy Aspiring Leaders Scholarship
This scholarship is being offered for the first time to Class of 2025 seniors from Streamwood High School’s LEAD Academy only. It is a $2,500 scholarship, awarded to one student per year.Previous Scholarship Winners
Class of 2024
Dr. Jean Bowen Scholarship
- Hannah Yoder, South Elgin High School
Malik M. Brown Memorial Scholarship
Learn more about the Malik M. Brown Memorial Scholarship
- Alexa Robelo, Elgin High School
- Antonio Alanis, Streamwood High School
David and Edith Cole Scholarship
Learn more about the David and Edith Cole Scholarship
- Nicole Smola, Elgin High School
- Laila Escobar, Elgin High School
- Esmeralda Medrano, Elgin High School
- Wendy Hernandez, Elgin High School
EHS Maroon's Leadership Scholarship
Learn more about the EHS Maroon's Leadership Scholarship
- Hannah Kolakowski, Elgin High School
Elgin Breakfast Rotary, G. Michael Greene Scholarship
Learn more about the Elgin Breakfast Rotary, G. Michael Greene Scholarship
- Chloe Rivera, Elgin High School
Douglas Hoeft Scholarship
Learn more about the Douglas Hoeft Scholarship
- Hannah Kolakowski, Elgin High School
- Alexis Serrano, Streamwood High School
- Hailey Weeks, Larkin High School
- Kimberly Diaz, Bartlett High School
- Fabian Torres, South Elgin High School
Lisa Mercado Memorial Scholarship for Bilingual Students
Learn more about the Lisa Mercado Memorial Scholarship for Bilingual Students
- Nicole Smola, Elgin High School
Dody Nesbit Scholarship
Learn more about the Dody Nesbit Scholarship
- Adhraa Arastu, Elgin High School
Alice Pragman Award for English Excellence
Learn more about the Alice Pragman Award for English Excellence
- Kaitlyn Adaya, Elgin High School
Ron Raglin Teaching and Learning Scholarship
Learn more about the Ron Raglin Teaching and Learning Scholarship
- Taro Ishikawa, Streamwood High School
- Kimberly Diaz, Bartlett High School
- Natalie Perez, Larkin High School
- Wendy Hernandez, Elgin High School
Gilbert I. Renner Scholarship
Learn more about the Gilbert I. Renner Scholarship
- Chloe Horn, Elgin High School
- Benjamin Hall-Skank
- Anusha Shah
- Robyn Kopeny
Superintendent's Scholarship
Learn more about the Superintendent's Scholarship Program
From Bartlett High School:
- Bianca Bil
- Kimberly Diaz
- Rudra Patel
- Janine Villegas
From Elgin High School:
- Enrique Aguila
- Elvin Arinaitwe
- Gabriela Bautista
- Stephanie Bautista
- Bryanna Cole
- Keyla Fregoso
- Wendy Hernandez
- Victoria Martinez
- Esmeralda Medrano
- Stephanie Nieves
- Fatima Salazar
- Nicole Smola
- James Vargas
- Emily Vega
- Yahaira Zepeda
From Larkin High School:
- Athena Arellanes
- Ericka Bonilla
- John Catalan
- Tyler Luu
- Julissa Martinez
- Nicole Roman
- Kimberly Ta
From South Elgin High School:
- Nehmut Kaur
- Nicole Maslon
From Streamwood High School:
- Miranda Hermez
- Alexis Serrano
Frances Turnquist Scholarship
Learn more about the Frances Turnquist Scholarship
- Kaitlyn Adaya, Elgin High School
Class of 2023
Dr. Jean Bowen Scholarship
- Ana Diaz, South Elgin High School
Malik M. Brown Memorial Scholarship
Learn more about the Malik M. Brown Memorial Scholarship
- Michelle Soto, Elgin High School
- Juan Andres Molano Ruiz, Elgin High School
- Imani Blanchard, Larkin High School
David and Edith Cole Scholarship
Learn more about the David and Edith Cole Scholarship
- Amylyn Chicas, Elgin High School
- Alexia Martinez, Elgin High School
- Fatima Pantoja Lara, Elgin High School
- Jessica Wong, Elgin High School
EHS Maroon's Leadership Scholarship
Learn more about the EHS Maroon's Leadership Scholarship
- Sadira Ali, Elgin High School
Elgin Breakfast Rotary, G. Michael Greene Scholarship
Learn more about the Elgin Breakfast Rotary, G. Michael Greene Scholarship
- Preston Harris, South Elgin High School
Douglas Hoeft Scholarship
Learn more about the Douglas Hoeft Scholarship
- Ivan Hernandez, Elgin High School
- Diavyance Richardson, Streamwood High School
- India Pipes, Larkin High School
- Aaron Ryniec, Bartlett High School
- Gabrielle Flynn, South Elgin High School
Lisa Mercado Memorial Scholarship for Bilingual Students
Learn more about the Lisa Mercado Memorial Scholarship for Bilingual Students
- Giselle Naranjo, Larkin High School
Dody Nesbit Scholarship
Learn more about the Dody Nesbit Scholarship
- Stephanie Skrabacz, Elgin High School
Alice Pragman Award for English Excellence
Learn more about the Alice Pragman Award for English Excellence
- Stephanie Skrabacz, Elgin High School
Ron Raglin Teaching and Learning Scholarship
Learn more about the Ron Raglin Teaching and Learning Scholarship
- Jackie Benitez, Streamwood High School
- Kayleen DeLoera, Bartlett High School
Gilbert I. Renner Scholarship
Learn more about the Gilbert I. Renner Scholarship
- Madeline Conter, Elgin High School
Superintendent's Scholarship
Learn more about the Superintendent's Scholarship Program
From Bartlett High School:
- Montana Bil
- Kayleen DeLoera
- Shubh Mangrola
- Karolina Olechna
- Matthew Wojcik
From Elgin High School:
- Mia Ayala
- Marisol Baeza
- Xixtlally Chavez
- Amylyn Chicas
- Andrea Jimenez
- Litzy Melchor
- Jonathan Miranda
- Diana Moreno
From Larkin High School:
- Nelly Alvarado
- Abby Casas
- Nancy Cortez
- America Magana
- Makiya McClelland
- Denise Moreno-Garcia
- Giselle Naranjo
From South Elgin High School:
- Ayra Davuluri
From Streamwood High School:
- Jackie Benitez
- Ximena Murguia
- Jessica Rosales
- Claudia Ruiz
- Natalia Wlodarczyk
Frances Turnquist Scholarship
Learn more about the Frances Turnquist Scholarship
- Tori Hinson, Elgin High School
Alumni Registry
Dual Language Portfolio Certification Scholarship

About this Scholarship
Three $1,000 scholarships will be awarded per year, with scoring based on academic proficiency and financial need. The scholarships may be used toward tuition at any 2- or 4-year university, or trade school. Students must complete a cultural reflection essay as part of the application process.
Ten students from each of the five comprehensive high schools, who meet the Dual Language Portfolio Certification criteria, are encouraged to apply.
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Click here to see if you qualify to apply for this scholarship.
Teacher Appreciation Week
In honor of Teacher Appreciation Week in May, students, alumni, and parents are invited to recognize a special teacher, current or retired, by making a donation to the U-46 Educational Foundation. Visit the U-46 Facebook page and use the #ThankAU46Teacher hashtag to read some of the special stories that families shared about how great teachers had impacted their lives and watch the video below too. Underneath the video you will find a list of donors and the teachers they recognized.
Grant Programs
Frequently Asked Questions about U-46 Educational Foundation Grants
During the 2022/23 school year, the U-46 Educational Foundation is very excited to have $25,000 in funding available for grants for U-46 teachers and staff, and more than $11,000 in grant funding available for our community partners. Grants from the U-46 Educational Foundation can fund any idea that will enhance student learning or well-being in U-46. This could include classroom or academic needs, projects related to the fine arts, ideas that enhance students' social/emotional learning, extra-curricular clubs or teams, etc.
Do grants need to be for a large number of students, such as an entire school?
Grants can impact a small group of students or a large number of students.
Is there anything specific that I cannot fund with a grant?
Grants cannot be used for salaries or food. Technology purchases must be approved by the District Information Services Department.
What kinds of projects have received grant funding in the past?
Click here to see a list of our approved grants from the 2020/21 school year.
Click here to see a list of our approved grants from the 2021/22 school year.
What is the deadline for applying for a grant?
The deadline to apply for a grant is 11:59 p.m. on Friday, September 30, 2022.
Who can apply, and can I apply for more than one grant?
Any U-46 teacher or staff member may apply for grants. You may apply as many times as you would like. Additionally, our community partners are eligible to apply for grants.
How are grants evaluated?
Grants are evaluated by the U-46 Educational Foundation's Allocations Committee using a rubric. The Allocations Committee has a preference for grants funding innovative ideas. Priority is also given to grants that impact the academic, social/emotional, or safety needs of students, and/or grants that impact marginalized student groups.
Grants selected by the Committee will then be reviewed by the District to ensure that the project can be completed as described. Projects cannot violate FERPA or the IDEA act or any standing District policies. It is in the best interest of the grant applicant to check with his or her supervisor before submitting a grant proposal to ensure that the grant idea can be completed as described.
When will I know if I received a grant?
Applicants will be contacted at the beginning of November 2022.
How will I receive my grant?
If approved for a grant and you have already spent money on items approved in the grant proposal, submit a receipt for the items purchased, and the Foundation will reimburse your expenses. If approved for a grant and you have not yet spent money on items approved in the grant proposal, submit an invoice for the items needed, and the Foundation will send a check to the vendor to cover invoiced grant expenses. Receipts or invoices must be submitted by May 31, 2023.
Do I have to use grant funds this year?
Grant funds must be used during the 2022/23 school year. If you are not able to complete your project by May 31, you may request a one-year extension. Extensions must be requested prior to May 31, 2023. Grantees who do not comply with the above conditions may not be awarded grant funding in a subsequent school year.
What if I don't use all of the grant money that I received?
Unused grant funding will not roll over into subsequent school years without an approved grant extension. Unused grant funding includes funds that have not been requested with an invoice or receipt by May 31, 2023, and checks that have not been cashed within 90 days of being issued. Uncashed checks older than 90 days may be voided.
Besides filling out the application, what else do I need to do?
Prior to filling out an application, be sure to check with your building administrator to ensure that your project can be completed as described.
If you are awarded a grant, after receiving the funding you will be sent a short grant evaluation form. Please submit that form to the Foundation with at least two JPGs or other transferrable electronic photographs of your project, by June 31, 2023. Please ensure that any identifiable students in the photos have a media release consent form. If you need more time, you can request an extension by June 31, 2023. If you fail to submit a grant evaluation by the deadline, you may forfeit the opportunity to receive grant funding in a subsequent school year.
Before I apply, can you just tell me exactly what information I will need to fill out the application?
Of course! We fill out grant applications too. We understand.
You will need:
- The name and email of one contact person;
- The name(s) of the people applying for the grant;
- A project title, objective, description, timeline, and outcomes;
- The number of people impacted by your grant. Of those people, tell us how many are U-46 students or employees;
- A description of the people impacted. Things you might want to tell us include:
- the grades of people impacted (i.e. third graders and fourth graders)
- the % of minority students,
- the % of students with IEPs,
- the % of free/reduced lunch students, etc.
- To know whether you would accept partial funding for your project;
- And an itemized budget of the things you will need to complete your project.
What kind of grant projects were approved last year?
Find out more about the projects approved for grant funding last year, by clicking here.
How does the Foundation get the money used to fund teacher and staff grants?
The Foundation's funding comes from your generous support! When U-46 employees, families, and community members donate to the Foundation, we use that money to fund these grants for our teachers and staff. Your support of our Run for U-46 5K, Employee Campaign, Annual Appeal, and Teacher Appreciation Campaign makes these grants possible. Thank you! We couldn't do it without you.
What if I have a question not answered above?
Contact the U-46 Educational Foundation Coordinator, Dawn Curran, at DawnCurran@u-46.org
Talent Fest
Congratulations to this year's TalentFest winners!!
1st place - John Millard, Christian Freehill, and Sam Politte (rock/blues band) of SEHS
2nd place -Kira Baasch and Marissa Lullo (tap dancers) of SEHS
3rd place - Nick Raymundo (guitar and vocals) of Bartlett High.
In addition, every year a traveling trophy is presented to the school whose acts receive the most votes. This year the traveling trophy went to South Elgin High School!
A big thank you to everyone who helped make TalentFest possible, including Jeff Grosser; U-46 Fine Arts Coordinator, Jaimie Giraldo; our celebrity judges, Jeffrey Pierce, publisher of Bravo Magazine; Lisa Medendorp, U-46 Educational Foundation board member; and two student judges from Judson University, Carter Grimes and Bryan Tripp; Judson University; and the Elgin Cultural Arts Commission.

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