On Sept. 11, Illinois State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders visited York Center and Westmore elementary schools.
Dr. Sanders was joined by Illinois State Board of Education officials Cynthia Lund, chief governmental relations officer, and Hector Rodriguez, director of government relations, as well as state Rep. Diane Blair-Sherlock and her chief of staff, Jax West. District 45 representatives included Superintendent Brian Graber and school board President Judy Degnan.
York Center visit
At York Center, Principal Ani Derdenger and a group of students welcomed Dr. Sanders. The students led him on a tour of the school, introducing each stop and describing the activities they enjoy there.
The Lions introduced Dr. Sanders to the school’s charter words: safe, respected, calm and included. The group stopped at many sites, including the library for a photo and the gym. On the playground, Sanders joined the students in taking the equipment for a “spin”. The tour continued in the outdoor garden, where students and guests gathered for a Q&A session.
During the session, the Lions presented Dr. Sanders with school spirit wear and fresh tomatoes from their garden.
Westmore visit
At Westmore, students and staff rolled out a glittering red carpet in honor of the school’s “Spotlight on Learning” theme. Holding welcome signs, they cheered as Dr. Sanders and the rest of the group walked the red carpet and entered the school.
Inside, Principal Scott Dart and Assistant Principal Shawna Chambers led Dr. Sanders on a tour of classrooms. Dr. Sanders joined students in art, reading and singing activities. The visit concluded with a group photo in front of the Westmore school logo.
Thank you to Dr. Sanders and his group for visiting our schools! Students and staff at York Center and Westmore, thank you for organizing excellent tours!