Elgin, IL

September 27, 2024 - The School District U-46 Board of Education Monday night honored two students and a teacher for their recent accomplishments.

John Rogers, now a sophomore at Bartlett High School’s Science, Engineering, and Technology Magnet Academy, earned first place in the Introductory Board Drawing Competition at the Illinois Design Educators Association Competition. The event was held in April on the campus of Illinois State University.

In John’s event, students had to use drafting equipment like rulers, a compass, and T-square to create a 3-D drawing of a specified mechanical object in under two hours. John said the hours he practiced at home doing problems from prior years’ tournaments paid off and gave him confidence.

The BOE also honored Vincent Leal, a student in the Transition program at South Elgin High School. He earned gold in the 100M racewalk at the Summer Games of the Illinois Special Olympics held in Bloomington-Normal in June. Vincent competes for the Blue Stars, U-46’s Special Olympics team.

“Vinny could also win an award for leadership on our team,” said Blue Stars coach Brooke McGrath. “He takes great pride in being a leader for his teammates and helping them find their strengths at practice and on the court.” 

Finally, the BOE recognized Michele Mueller, the boys volleyball coach at Streamwood High School. She was named the 2024 Boys Volleyball Coach of the Year by the Illinois Volleyball Coaches Association.

Mueller, who also teaches science at SHS, has been the boys head volleyball coach for the Sabres since 2019. The team went 10-21 the year before she joined. 

“In true Mueller form, she pushed forward with the goal of changing the culture and getting players to believe in themselves, as well as the process,” 

the IVCA said in giving her the award. 

The Sabres finished the 2024 season with an overall record of 25-7 and placed 2nd in their conference; the best record and conference finish in program history.

The Board of Education recognized all three with “Accent on Achievement” certificates during its meeting on Monday, Sept. 23.