bensenville hello!
BENSENVILLE COMMUNITY PUBLIC LIBRARY
BUG HUNT
MONDAY | JULY 1 | 6-6:45 P.M. | ALL AGES
Get up close with insects and other creepy crawlies in our library’s garden. Go on a scavenger hunt for bugs and then enjoy a book and a craft. Intended for kids and families; all ages friendly.
LITTLE LEARNERS
EVERY TUESDAY | JULY 2 THRU AUGUST 13 | 10:30-11 A.M. | AGES 3-5
Come on down for a story time geared towards preschool students! We will make a fun craft and play!
SUMMER CRAFT CLUB
EVERY MONDAY | JULY 1 THRU AUGUST 5 | 11-11:45 A.M. | AGES 0-11
Do you have kids that just can’t get enough crafting fun? Bring them to the library to join Ms. Diane and Ms. Penny for a new craft project every week. All it takes is a sprinkle of imagination to join the fun!
TERRACOTTA POT PAINTING
WEDNESDAY | JULY 10 | 6-7 P.M. | ALL AGES; TEENS AND ADULTS WELCOME!
Have you gotten seeds from our Seed Library yet? Want something fun to do before heading to Music in the Park? Come on down to the library and paint your very own terracotta pot! Please wear something that you won’t mind getting dirty.
YOGA STORYTIME
EVERY THURSDAY | JULY 11 THRU AUGUST 15 | 11-11:30 A.M. | AGES 4 AND UP
Practice and learn new yoga poses with your little ones, and enjoy a yoga-themed story too. Due to restricted space, this program is limited to 10 yogis; we recommend arriving a few minutes early to secure a spot.
PATIO PLAY
FRIDAY, JULY 12 AND FRIDAY, JULY 19 | 10:30-11 A.M. | AGES 0-6
Let’s have some outdoor fun on the Early Learning Center’s patio with amazing toys like sidewalk chalk, bubbles, and more! Weather permitting, we’ll be playing outside. But in case the weather turns bad, we will move the event indoors.
BUTT OR FACE? ANIMAL GUESSING GAME
MONDAY, JULY 29 FROM 6:00-7:00 P.M. | AGES 5-10
Are you looking at an animal butt, or an animal face? Answer correctly to earn prizes while learning about amazing animals from around the world. This program is based on the hilarious and well-loved children’s book by Kari Lavelle.
SUMMER READING 2024
NOW THROUGH JULY 31ST
Read, Renew, Repeat at the library this summer! Readers from ages 0-18 may register in-person at the Youth Desk to pick up a paper log, or register online using the free Reader Zone app with our code c3b57. Track the time you spend reading to earn prizes like a free cake from Portillo’s! Prizes start at the 4-hour mark. Read 8 hours to earn a free book, t-shirt, and a ticket for one of three grand prize drawings.
Adult readers may pick up a Summer Reading Bookmark Challenge at the Adult Desk. The first 50 adults to turn in their completed bookmarks will win a free lunchbox, but everyone will be entered into a raffle to win a Kindle Fire HD 8.
The statements and opinions expressed in this newsletter do not reflect the views, opinions, thoughts or beliefs of each member organization. The member organizations are not responsible for opinions or statements made individually or by other organizations. For information, contact sparkison@benlib.org. Deadline for Sept/Oct is July 26.
200 South Church Road
Bensenville | Illinois 60106
www.benlib.org 630 766 4642
HOURS
MONDAY | 9 AM-9 PM
TUESDAY | 9 AM-9 PM
WEDNESDAY | 9 AM-9 PM
THURSDAY | 9 AM-9 PM
FRIDAY | 9 AM-5 PM
SATURDAY | 9 AM-5 PM
SUNDAY | 1 PM-5 PM
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Linda Weiss | President
Tina Lux | Vice President
Susan Earley | Treasurer
Mandi Zalewski | Secretary
Dr. Consuelo Cabral-Marquez Trustee
Michele Janovsky | Trustee
Amy Labickas | Trustee
Chris Sloan | Library Director
LIBRARY CLOSINGS
Thursday, July 4 | Independence Day
Friday, August 2 | Staff In-Service Day
Get a Library Card!
To register, renew, or replace a Bensenville Library card, you must bring a valid government-issued photo ID showing residence within the district, or a photo ID in combination with a recently issued document with a name and corresponding address within the district.
For more information about registering for a card, visit benlib. org/get-a-card or give us a call and ask for the Circulation desk.
BENSENVILLE COMMUNITY PUBLIC LIBRARY
POLISH STORYTIME
EVERY THURSDAY | JULY 11 THRU AUGUST 29 | 10-10:30 A.M. | AGES 0-6
Join Ms. Maggie for a family storytime in Polish! We will be reading books written by American and Polish authors. After reading stories, children are invited to make fun crafts and play interactive games!
CUENTOS EN ESPAÑOL
JULY 12, JULY 26, AUGUST 9, AND AUGUST 16 | 1:30-2 P.M. | AGES 0-6
Looking to promote early literacy in Spanish for your kids? Join us Friday afternoons as we read our favorite books and create a craft- all in Spanish. It’s a fantastic opportunity for language learning and fun bonding time.
GRAB & CRAFT FOR KIDS AND TEENS
FIRST SATURDAYS OF THE MONTH IN JULY AND AUGUST
9 A.M. – 5 P.M | AGES 0-18
Stop by the Youth Services Department and pick up a craft kit for kids and teens. Each kit will include materials and step-by-step instructions. Kits are available on a first-come, first serve basis, while supplies last.
FAMILY ART NIGHT: KID-FRIENDLY KALEIDOSCOPE
TUESDAY | JULY 23 | 6:30-7:30 P.M. | AGES 0-11
We will be making a kaleidoscope that is fun and easy to assemble. Use your creativity to decorate and view the colors of the rainbow!
DIY EXFOLIATING BODY SCRUB
WEDNESDAY | JULY 24 | 6-7 P.M. | FOR TEENS AND ADULTS
Looking to add to your self-care routine? Come on down to the library and make a DIY body scrub!
MINI CANVAS PAINTING
WEDNESDAY | AUGUST 7 | 6-7 P.M. | GRADES 9-12
Paint a mini canvas however you want before heading over to Music in the Park in downtown Bensenville! Please wear something you won’t mind getting paint on.
Libraries store the energy that fuels the imagination. They open up windows to the world and inspire us to explore and achieve, and contribute to improving our quality of life. Libraries change lives for the better.
—SIDNEY SHELDON
JUMP START YOUR GENEALOGY GROUP
SATURDAY, JULY 6 AND SATURDAY, AUGUST 3 | 2-4 P.M. TEENS AND ADULTS
Learn the basics of using Ancestry Library Edition, get help on your existing genealogy project, or come by to share stories. All skill levels welcome.
ART FOR RELAXATION: A COLORING PROGRAM
JULY 10 AND AUGUST 14 | 7-8 P.M. | FOR ADULTS ONLY REGISTRATION REQUIRED
Bring your own art pens or use supplied pencils, markers, and crayons to color in printed seasonal subjects, accompanied by relaxing music. Registration is required at benlib.org/events.
I DID A DNA TEST, NOW WHAT?
WEDNESDAY | JULY 24 | 7-8 P.M. | FOR ADULTS AND TEENS VIRTUAL | REGISTRATION REQUIRED
Join Genealogist Michelle Wilson to find out how to make the most of the information you receive from DNA tests, such as 23andMe, Ancestry DNA, and MyHeritage DNA. Registration is required for this virtual event at benlib.org/events.
TECH-SPLANATION: IPHONES
SATURDAY | AUGUST 3 | 10-11 A.M. | FOR ADULTS
Treat yourself to a refreshment at our iPhone “tech-splanation” session. We will break down the basics of navigating a smartphone with simple, step-by-step instructions that anyone can follow.
BOARD GAME SOCIAL CLUB
JULY 11, JULY 25, AUGUST 8, AND AUGUST 22 | 6-8:30 P.M. | FOR ADULTS AND OLDER TEENS
Join us Thursday evenings to play card games and board games. Feel free to bring a friend along, and if you have a favorite game, bring that too!
LOVELIT BOOK CLUB: 28 SUMMERS
THURSDAY | AUGUST 22 | 7-8 P.M. | FOR ADULTS
Dive into the world of relationships, passion, longing, and happily ever afters with fellow romance enthusiasts. We will be reading “28 Summers” by Elin Hilderbrand. Copies will be available to check out one month before the discussion.
Village of Bensenville
12 South Center Street
Bensenville, Illinois 60106
www.bensenville.il.us
630.766.8200
President Frank DeSimone
Trustees
Rosa Carmona
Ann Franz
Marie T. Frey
McLane Mac Lomax
Nicholas Panicola Jr.
Armando Perez
Village Clerk
Nancy Quinn
Village Manager
Evan K. Summers
and camaraderie for seasoned community members. We aim to please, and we are here to help. Have a question, have a project, need a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on...we are here for you! Call us at 630.350.3426.
For more information, please visit the Village website: bensenville.il.us.
SENIORS INFORMATION HOTLINE
Finding the answers to questions can sometimes be confusing, the Seniors Information Hotline provides basic information about Village programs and services. Our goal is to help Bensenville Senior Citizens easily navigate their way through the various government departments and agencies. Call 630.350.3426 to speak with a representative.
CONTACT US TODAY!
630.350.3426
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Monday – Friday
residents, from individual grants to community-wide projects that would not have been possible otherwise. Initiatives including youth development programs, public art, literacy, senior citizen services, safety enhancements and more. We could not be more grateful in Grand Subaru’s reinvestment in our community.” – VILLAGE PRESIDENT FRANK DESIMONE
For more information about the Bensenville Community Foundation, please visit: bensenvillefoundation.org.
2024 COFFEE WITH THE VILLAGE PRESIDENT
Starting in August, Village President Frank DeSimone and the Village Board will begin their annual series of casual neighborhood meetings throughout the Village. Coffee with the Village President is a great opportunity to meet your neighbors and elected officials in an informal setting. All events take place from 9–11 am. If there is inclement weather during the scheduled date, the event will not be rescheduled. Bring your family and friends!
2024 LOCATIONS
AUGUST 24 | LIONS PARK
SEPTEMBER 7 | MOHAWK PARK
SEPTEMBER 14 | BREITER PALM PARK
SEPTEMBER 21 | REDMOND PARK PLAYGROUND
SEPTEMBER 28 | SUNSET PARK
OCTOBER 5 | HERITAGE CENTER
The Village is currently hiring for a variety of positions in multiple departments. To view all current openings, please visit the Village website and select the Employment Opportunities icon located on the home page.
Open positions include Police Officers, Janitors, Lifeguards, and Aqua Fitness Instructors.
NATIONAL NIGHT OUT
TUESDAY | AUGUST 6 | 6 PM TO 8 PM
The community is invited to celebrate National Night Out in downtown Bensenville on Tuesday, August 6 with the Bensenville Police Department. This free event will include a classic car show, yard games, refreshments, and more. National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that enhances the relationship between neighbors & law enforcement while bringing a true sense of community.
PUBLIC WORKS OPEN HOUSE
SATURDAY | JULY 13 | 10 AM TO 2 PM
Join Bensenville Public Works for a unique experience allowing you to get a behind-the-scenes look at the skills, tools, and equipment required to maintain the Village’s infrastructure. This free event will take place at the Bensenville Public Works facility (717 E. Jefferson St) on July 13 from 10 am–2 pm. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities and visit booths about forestry, streets, water, fleet and building services, wastewater, stormwater, engineering, and emergency management. For additional details, visit the Village website or call Public
SWEET TREATS AT SUNDAES TOO ICE CREAM SHOP
Enjoy a sweet treat at Sundaes Too Ice Cream Shop, now with a new menu featuring all the classics along with some new exciting options for both concessions & ice cream! Located in Bensenville’s Center Theatre at 9 S. Center Street, Sundaes Too offers a variety of ice cream flavors and frozen treats including a limited selection of non-dairy options. Stop by this summer!
NEW PLAYGROUND AT REDMOND RECREATIONAL COMPLEX
New playground at Redmond Recreational Complex! In November 2023, President Frank DeSimone engaged with Bensenville School District 2 students for their valuable input on redesigning Redmond Recreational Complex’s outdated playground. The design they chose is now a reality! Visit the new playground at Redmond, located between the soccer fields and bandshell.
FENTON COMMUNITY
HIGH SCHOOL | District 100
1000 West Green Street
Bensenville | Illinois 60106
630 766 2500
www.fenton100.org
Mission Statement
Cultivate successful, passionate, empowered learners through rigor, relevance and relationships.
Board of Education
Cary Lewis | President
Juliet Rago | Vice President
Leonel Figueroa | Secretary
Reid Goodrich
Sylvia Hayde
John Radzinski
Kent Kovak
Administration
Sam Bentsen
Interim Superintendent
Kate Ward
Interim Associate Superintendent/Principal
Jose Jaramillo | Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources and Operations
Bruce Martin | Chief School Business Officer
Brittany Ruttenberg | Technology Supervisor
Rick Kambic | Director of Communications and Community Engagement
Michelle Papanicolaou | Director of Postsecondary Pathways/Division Leader
Pedro Rodriguez
Director of Athletics/Division Leader
Eric Koranda
Assistant Principal/Division Leader
Julia Bray | Assistant Principal/Division Leader
Kelly Kasmar | Division Leader
Lorenzo Rubio
Director of Equity/Division Leader
Carmen Abraham | Dean of Students
Thomas Kobel | Director of Building, Grounds and Transportation
data on nearly 25,000 public high schools in 50 states and the District of Columbia. Nearly 18,000 schools were ranked on six factors based on their performance on state assessments and how well they prepare students for college.
Fenton Ranked above or near numerous other DuPage County high schools with similar demographics. They noted the following strengths:
• 90% Graduation Rate
• College Curriculum
• 43% of students took at least 1 AP Exam
Thank you to all of our teachers, students, and parents for your hard work and commitment to learning.
STEM Wing Construction
On May 22 we had the extreme honor of celebrating the start of construction for our new STEM Wing. This exciting investment is a major asset to our entire Bensenville and Wood Dale community. This new STEM Wing will feature 12 state of the art science and technology classrooms that will empower our teachers to expand their curriculum and take their students’ imagination to new heights, inspiring countless students for decades to come.
As School Board President Cary Lewis said at our groundbreaking event: Every student at Fenton High School will have science classes in this building, which also means every child in every neighborhood of Bensenville and Wood Dale will one day walk through this building and have the opportunity to be empowered.
New fences have been installed to keep the area safe and secure. The back parking lot next to our stadium remains closed to the public and will continue to be used primarily for construction.
Let’s Go BISON!
SAM BENTSEN, ED.D. | Interim Superintendent
FENTON COMMUNITY
HIGH SCHOOL | District 100
1000 West Green Street
Bensenville | Illinois 60106
630 766 2500
www.fenton100.org
Mission Statement
Cultivate successful, passionate, empowered learners through rigor, relevance and relationships.
Among the Best in Illinois:
Fenton’s State Bound Students
Fenton continues to produce athletic, co-curricular, and extracurricular programs that rival others throughout Illinois. Each time an individual or team qualify for the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Finals, Fenton throws a State Bound celebration with classmates and families before school the day of or day before traveling to the competition.
Fenton’s staff and Board of Education are extremely proud of these dedicated students and coaches.
for
SPEECH
for the second time.
Alexa Calderon and Sarah Guerrero Gorostieta advanced to the IHSA State Finals and took 2nd place in their respective events! Alexa was the Sectional Champion for Informative Speaking AND Prose Reading. She then took 2nd in State for Informative Speaking. Sarah was the Sectional Champion in Original Oratory and later took 2nd in State.
BISON BOWLING | Izabel Krajecki advanced to the IHSA State Finals for Girls Bowling! She averaged 193 pins per game in a highly competitive Sectional tournament.
CONTEST PLAY | Fenton’s production of The Life Span Of A Fact qualified for the IHSA Drama State Finals. Nate Rodriguez, Lex Mikulski and Lita Aguilar were recognized with All-State Cast honors!
FCCLA | Izabel Krajecki brought home a gold medal and was awarded the Most Outstanding designation in the Children’s Literature event of the state finals for Family Careers & Community Leaders of America.
GROUP INTERPRETATION | Group Interpretation’s Every Brilliant Thing qualified for the IHSA Drama State Finals. Sarah Guerrero Gorostieta, Alexa Calderon and Alonso Romero were recognized with All-State Cast honors!
GIRLS WRESTLING | Sophia Sosa and Yamile Penaloza returned to the ISHA Girls Wrestling State Finals. Yami qualified
the 3rd straight year with a 35-1 record this season. Sophia was 33-3 and went to state
BOYS WRESTLING | Thomas Klos and Jovany Zuniga qualified for IHSA Wrestling State Finals.
FENTON SENIORS WIN COMMUNITY SCHOLARSHIPS
Many Fenton students in the Class of 2024 have earned scholarships of all sizes and for a variety of accomplishments. Fenton is fortunate to have several local partners in the community that contribute their hard earned money toward scholarships for our graduates. Below is a list of graduated seniors who earned scholarships from our local community partners. Thank you to all of the donors.
AKBAR AND SALMA NAVSANWALA SCHOLARSHIP
Zujeidi Mendoza-Garcia
BENSENVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SCHOLARSHIP
Zujeidi Mendoza-Garcia
Gracen Haska
BENSENVILLE WOOD DALE ROTARY CLUB/ BENSENVILLE YOUTH COALITION / DR. ALF LOGAN SCHOLARSHIPS
Dominika Wandachowicz
Zujeidi Mendoza-Garcia
Roza Grochal
Miranda Otero
Samantha Lang
Izabel Krajecki
Giselle Garcia
Abby Hernandez
CHICK EVANS SCHOLARSHIP
Maxymilian Bis
DIANE KALOUSEK MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Sarah Guerrero Gorostieta
FENTON EDUCATION ASSOCIATION SCHOLARSHIP
Brandon Block
Izabel Krajecki
FENTON HIGH SCHOOL AMERICAN LEGION SCHOLARSHIP
Jordan Brown
FENTON STUDENTS FOR STUDENTS SCHOLARSHIP
Alondra Guerrero
FENTON MUSIC BOOSTER SCHOLARSHIP
Sarah Guerrero Gorostieta
Eric Ziehm
Samantha Lang
FENTON NEXTGRAD SCHOLARSHIP
David Aviles
GREEN STREET GRILLE BUSINESS EDUCATION EXCELLENCE SCHOLARSHIP
Olivia Pasterska
Delilah Paz
JOSHUA D. SCHOON MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Febe Reyes
MILLER FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP FOR THE SCIENCES
Solomia Prokulevich
Giselle Garcia
Leonardo Cortez
Edwin Baeza
PADRES UNIDOS SCHOLARSHIP
Elmer Escobedo
Arantza Jimenez
Mauricio Martinez
PATRICK ROBERT CURRAN
MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Brandon Block
Jordan Brown
John Contreras
Angelica Kougias
Izabel Krajecki
Alexa Perez
RUSSELL B DAHL
LOVE FOR LACES SCHOLARSHIP
Eric Ziehm
David Aviles
WOOD DALE LIONS CLUB SCHOLARSHIP
Anastazja Michalski
Damian Micor
Izabela Micor
THE UPS STORE BENSENVILLEWOOD DALE SCHOLARSHIP
Sarah Guerrero Gorostieta
Zofia Zaorski
Arantza Jimenez
Diego Rojas
Abigail Villegas
Brandon Block
Elmer Escobedo
Paloma Ochoa Segundo
Neshaun Polk Bey
STATE SCHOLARS
The following students were recognized in the Illinois State Scholar Program because of their outstanding academic achievements:
Alejandro Aguilar Carrera
Paola Aguilera
Victoria Barnas
Maxymilian Bis
Brandon Block
Alejandro Diaz
Giselle Garcia
Roza Grochal
Gracen Yvonne Haska
Abby Hernandez
Viktor Hrushka
Anastazja Michalski
Damian Micor
Izabela Micor
Krish Patel
Solomia Prokulevich
Febe Reyes
Diego Rojas
Gabriel Salgado
Samantha Sanchez
David Severiano
Bridget Toledo Guevara
Lynette Wade
Zofia Zaorski
Students are selected based on their standardized test scores and their cumulative GPA after their second semester of their junior year.
MILITARY RECRUITS
Several Fenton graduates have proudly enlisted in the armed services. The following graduates agreed to disclose their plans and be recognized for their selflessness:
Carmello Cruz – United States Marine Corps
Gabriel Leon – United States Marine Corps
Armon Pointer – United States Navy
BENSENVILLE PARK DISTRICT
Deer Grove Leisure Center
Administrative Office
1000 West Wood Street
Bensenville | Illinois 60106
630 766 7015
BvilleParks.org
@BvilleParks
White Pines Golf Club
500 West Jefferson Street
Bensenville | Illinois 60106
630 766 0304
WhitePinesGolf.com
@GolfWhitePines
Bensenville Water Park & Splash Pad
1100 West Wood Street
Bensenville | Illinois 60106
630 766 SWIM (7946)
@BvilleWaterPark
Fischer Farm
16W680 Old Grand Avenue
Bensenville | Illinois 60106
630 834 3152
@BvilleFischerFarm
Bensenville Railroad Museum
Veterans Park
@BvilleTrain
Wood Street Fitness Center
1000 West Wood Street
Bensenville | Illinois 60106
630 766 7015
WoodStFitness.com
@WoodStFitness
Board of Commissioners
Rich Johnson | President
Val Karg | Vice President
Jay Snyder | Treasurer
Nancy Gibbs | Secretary
Christopher Hernandez | Commissioner
Executive Director
Joseph C. Vallez
Get out and play with the Bensenville Park District! Whether meeting friends at a neighborhood park, cooling off at the Bensenville Water Park & Splash Pad, exploring nature at Fischer Farm, exploring railroad history at the Bensenville Train at Veteran’s Park on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon, hitting the links at White Pines or working out at Wood Street Fitness, the park district provides something for everyone!
PARK ‘N PLAY
Enjoy summer activities and programs in neighborhood parks as well as special events. Highlights include the free Fitness Dayz Yoga at the Farm July 13 at Fischer Farm, Sunrise Yoga & Mimosas at White Pines on July 20, Puppy Yoga at the Deer Grove Leisure Center on July 21 and August 10, Yoga and Art in the Park at Fischer Farm on August 12 and the free Fitness Dayz Outdoor Bootcamp at Varble Park on August 18. The Movies in the Park series continues with the July 20 showing of Charlotte’s Web at Fischer Farm and the Dive-In-Movie presentation of Elemental at the Water Park & Splash Pad on August 3, sponsored by Armando Perez State Farm. A listing of the many activities coming to neighborhood parks may be found at BvilleParks.org/park-n-play!
IT’S COOL AT THE POOL
With a 155-foot water slide, two drop slides, a diving board, a 2,527 square-foot Splash Pad, sun deck and a full-service concession stand, the Bensenville Water Park & Splash Pad is home to summer fun! Veterans swim free on July 4! Save 50 percent on season passes after July 4, and Bville Bundles offer savings to residents with a $99 price for 10 admissions! Swimming lessons are available for those of all skill levels.
MORE THAN GOLF
White Pines Golf Club is the place to be this summer, from golf to special events and lessons. Book a tee time online at WhitePinesGolf.com. No matter the age or skill level, the professionals at White Pines are here to improve your golf game. Lessons are available for those of all ages and skill levels. Don’t miss Jim Geils Family Golf Nights after 5 pm on Sundays, July 21, August 18 and September 15, featuring special pricing for adults ($10) and juniors ($5) as well as cart rentals and an affordable meal deal at 37 Bar & Grill.
The White Pines gaming area, located in the room between the Pro Shop and 37 Bar & Grill, is now open and contains six video gaming terminals in partnership with Gold Rush Gaming. Proceeds from video gaming terminals will go to the Friends of Bensenville Parks Foundation for use in funding scholarships and park district youth programs, including youth golf programs. Don’t miss Beer Tasting & Bags at the White Pines’ 37 Bar & Grill patio from 3-5 pm July 26! Try a variety of beers while playing bags. Fee is $10. Must be 21+ to play.
White Pines Golf Club’s FREE Live at White Pines concert series returns August 9 and September 21 (Salsa Night with Projecto 7, presented by Los Buenos Diaz Mexican Grill). Enjoy musical entertainment in the Pavilion at White Pines. Admission is free, and food and beverages will be available for purchase both nights.
FISCHER FARM FUN
Get back to nature at one of the oldest remaining homesteads in DuPage County. Celebrate Fischer Farm’s dairy farm heritage during National Cow Day, July 9. Join in a firefly hunt with Fireflies on July 13. Meet at the bee hive and learn all about native bees and the ecosystem at Beein’ a Pollinator on July 20. Then it’s Monarch Mania—no, it’s not a program about kings and queens—about caterpillars and butterflies, which culminates in a release of these delicate creatures on July 27. Summer programs conclude with Hummingbird Hangout on August 10, Farm Photography on August 17, Farm Trivia on August 24 and Farm Chores, which runs August 25 – September 15. Fees are $15, $10 for those in district. Register at the Deer Grove Leisure Center.
WOOD STREET FITNESS
Get active with family and friends with Wood Street Fitness! Don’t miss Puppy Yoga on July 21 and August 10 at the Deer Grove Leisure Center Exercise Room! Fees are $20, $18 in district, and support Border Tails Rescue. Hurry! Spots fill fast! Register at the Deer Grove Leisure Center. The park district provides the transportation for this challenging climb that traverses the Indiana Dunes’ three tallest sand dunes—552 vertical feet over 1.5 miles of tough trail. Perfect for active people of all ages who love the outdoors, get a free Three Dune Challenge souvenir at the gift shop after completing the hike. Fee is just $17, $15 for those living in district. Register at the Deer Grove Leisure Center.
TINY TOT PROGRAMS
The Bensenville Park District’s Tiny Tot early childhood programs help mentally, physically, socially and emotionally prepare tots for a life of learning beginning at one-and-a-half years old. Four distinct programs are offered: Play With Me (formerly Tot School Primer) for those 18-30 months, Little Sprouts (formerly Tot School) for ages 2-3 and two Tiny Tot Preschool programs (ages 3-4 and 4-5). Children must be age appropriate by September 1. Contact Cindy Banaszynski, lead preschool teacher, by calling 630.766.7015 x117 to schedule an appointment to tour the classroom and meet the teachers. Register at the Deer Grove Leisure Center. More information may be found at BvilleParks.org/programs/preschool-primer.
YOUNG AT HEART
The Bensenville Park District’s active adults are headed to the Pabst Mansion, Brat Stop and Cheese Castle in Wisconsin! Register now for this trip on Monday, July 22! Fees are just $20 for in-district residents. The Young at Heart also are heading to the Wheaton French Market and Burger Social July 20, lunch at Hawthorne’s Backyard on July 3, lunch at Big Bowl Schaumburg on August 5, the International Museum of Surgical Science on August 20 and a paddle wheel boat trip on the Fox River August 30. Hurry! Trips fill fast! Register in advance at the Deer Grove Leisure Center!
FALL REGISTRATION
The Bensenville Park District’s Fall Program Guide is scheduled to be in homes mid-July. Fall registration for those living in district begins at 8 am Tuesday, August 6, at the Deer Grove Leisure Center, 1000 W. Wood Street, Bensenville. Registration for all others begins Wednesday, August 7.
BENSENVILLE ELEMENTARY
SCHOOL DISTRICT 2
210 South Church Road
Bensenville | Illinois 60106
bsd2.org | 630 766 5940
Board of Education
Bob Laudadio | President
Marisol Leyva | Vice President
Jacqueline Dye | Secretary
Lori Parthimos | Treasurer
Victoria Gonzalez
Anita Miller
James Stoltman
Administration
Dr. Katie McCluskey
Superintendent of Schools
Paul Novack | Chief Financial Officer
Dr. Anne Paonessa | Assistant Superintendent for Teaching & Learning
Dustin Berman | Assistant Superintendent for Student Services
Tammy Hoeflinger Director of Human Resources
DIRECTORY OF SCHOOLS
Blackhawk Middle School 630 766 2601
Diana Vergara | Principal
Tioga School | 630 766 2602
Jeffrey Kersten | Principal
W.A. Johnson School | 630 766 2605
Carlos Patiño | Principal
Bensenville Early Learning Center
Christy Poli | Pre-Kindergarten & Birth-to-3 Coordinator
SCHOOL DISTRICT 2
HEADED TO HIGH SCHOOL
Celebrating the completion of Blackhawk eighth graders’ BSD2 careers
Congratulations to the 209 students who walked across the stage and into a new era in their academic pursuits during Blackhawk Middle School’s Eighth Grade Promotion Ceremony. During the ceremony, which was held Tuesday, May 28, at Fenton High School, the following students were recognized with special awards:
BLACKHAWK FACULTY MEMORIAL AWARD | Matylda Piskorz & Alex Mitchell
BENSENVILLE EDUCATION ASSOCIATION AWARD | Kaitlynn Overfield
FENTON EDUCATION ASSOCIATION AWARD | Alyssa Robert & Jacob Jandura
SERVICE ABOVE SELF AWARD | Lia Sinacola & Daniel Miguel
BMS PRINCIPAL’S AWARD | Keya Shah & Kaylee Roman
HAWKS RECOGNITION | Kaitlynn Overfield
WELCOME TO DISTRICT 2
New principal set to lead Blackhawk Middle School
The BSD2 Board of Education has named Diana Vergara the new principal at Blackhawk Middle School.
“Ms. Vergara embodies the principles of hope and change with over two decades of experience in Chicago Public Schools as a teacher, coach, and assistant principal,”
said Dr. Katie McCluskey, Superintendent of Schools, while introducing Ms. Vergara to the Board.
Ms. Vergara comes to District 2 from Shields Middle School on Chicago’s southwest side, where she has served for the past seven years as assistant principal. Before becoming an administrator at Shields, she served for 17 years as a physical education teacher, coach, and athletic director.
A newcomer to the United States from Colombia, Ms. Vergara overcame barriers to success, inspired by the teachers and mentors in her life. Her journey in education is marked by her unwavering commitment to equity and excellence for every student.
“Ms. Vergara’s passion extends beyond the classroom walls. She is driven by a deep-rooted belief in the power of community and collaboration,” added Dr. McCluskey. “By fostering a culture of openness and empathy, she empowers teachers and staff to engage in courageous conversations, challenging ingrained beliefs, and sparking a transformation in mindset.”
Ms. Vergara is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership from National Louis University. She holds a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Chicago State University, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology from the University of Illinois at Chicago.
“I’m thrilled to embark on a new chapter as the Principal of Blackhawk Middle School in Bensenville School District 2,” said Ms. Vergara. “I am eager to meet the students, staff, and families of Blackhawk Middle School and collaborate with them to bring to life the shared vision to engage, grow, and succeed.
I’m confident that together, we can create an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered. I look forward to the journey ahead and the opportunity to serve and make a positive impact on the Blackhawk Middle School community and beyond.”
DEVELOPMENTAL SCREENINGS
District 2 is offering free developmental screenings on September 18 & 19
Do you have a child between the ages of 3 and 5?
Professionals will assess the development of your child’s large and fine motor skills, pre-academic readiness, and speech, language, vision and hearing. The screening will help identify children who qualify for the District’s free preschool
program, or who would benefit from additional services prior to entering kindergarten. Your child must be 3 years old by the screening date to participate. Screenings take about an hour and require an appointment.
For more information, or to make an appointment, call Tioga School at 630.766.2602 ext. 4200.
NOT REGISTERED?
Walk-in registration for 2024-2025 school year set for August 1 for all Bensenville School District 2 schools
Registration for new students or returning students who have not yet registered will be from 2-6 p.m. Thursday, August 1, at all District 2 schools.
Parents who are not certain which school their child will attend may call the Educational Administration Center at 630.766.5940, ext. 1108 or 1114.
Children must be 5 years old on or before September 1, 2024, to register for the 2024-2025 school year.
To register new students, parents must bring:
• Certified copies of the original birth certificates for each child being registered
• Proof of residency
• Up-to-date physical, dental, vision, and immunization records
• Transfer slips from the previous school they attended
The first day of the 2024-2025 school year is Wednesday, August 21.
For more information, contact the District 2 Educational Administration Center at 630.766.5940 or any District 2 school.
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MARK YOUR CALENDARS
Official BSD2 2024/25 Calendar
The District 2 Board of Education approved the official 2024-2025 school calendar during its January 17 meeting. Key dates are as follows:
Beginning of the School Year: Student attendance for Grades K-8 will begin on Wednesday, August 21. The first day for prekindergarten students is Monday, August 26.
Thanksgiving: Thanksgiving will be celebrated on Thursday, November 28. There will be no school that week.
Winter Break: There will be no school Monday, December 23, through Friday, January 3, with classes reconvening on Monday, January 6.
Spring Break: There will be no school Monday, March 31, through Friday, April 4, with schools reopening Monday, April 7.
End of the School Year: The last day of school will be Wednesday, June 4, unless emergency days are needed.
Visit bsd2.org/calendars for more information.
BUDDY BENCHES
New additions to playgrounds at Tioga and W.A. Johnson Schools provide students a place to go when they need a friend
Parents, community members, and local leaders from across Bensenville gathered in May to celebrate the installation of Buddy Benches on the playgrounds at Tioga and W.A. Johnson Schools.
A Buddy Bench is a place a student can go when they are feeling sad or lonely and need someone to talk to or play with. When a student sits on the Buddy Bench, other students and staff will know the child could use a friend, and will join the child and offer their help, support, and comfort.
Earlier this year, third-grade ACE students researched and developed a proposal to purchase Buddy Benches to install on their playgrounds. In January, they presented their idea to the Bensenville Community Foundation. The Foundation loved the idea and voted unanimously to fund the project.
WHEELS4WISDOM
Bensenville comes together to provide bicycles for students in need
Fourteen BSD2 students will be riding new-to-them bikes thanks to the generosity of the Bensenville community.
Bensenville Police Department stores lost, stolen and abandoned bicycles. When they sit unclaimed, the Department donates them to a good cause. This spring, that good cause was the Bensenville Youth Coalition and its new Wheels4Wisdom program. For Wheels4Wisdom, the Coalition worked with the Bensenville Police Department and Mark Drelicharz’s small engine classes at Fenton High School to refurbish the bicycles. Fenton and District 2 then worked together to identify students who would benefit from having one to ride primarily to and from school. However, the bikes are for their enjoyment, as well, and to keep both the bicycles and the students safe and secure, the Coalition also provided the students with helmets and locks at no cost.
Many of the bikes were given to their recipients at the Village of Bensenville’s National Bike Month Safety Workshop, which was hosted by the Bensenville Park District on May 13 at the Deer Grove Leisure Center.
“Everyone has been involved,” said Lara Schwarz, District 2’s Community Liaison and Member of the Coalition’s Board of Directors. “But I think the most rewarding part has been seeing the faces of the kids when they receive their new bikes!”
bensenville
sunday monday tuesday wednesday thursday friday saturday july 2024
BCPL Grab & Craft for Kids and Teens, 9am-5pm BCPL Genealogy Group, 2-4pm
BPD Fitness Dayz Yoga, 10:30am, Fischer Farm
BPD Sunrise Yoga & Mimosas, 8-10am, White Pines BPD Movie at the Farm, Charlotte’s Web , 8pm, Fischer Farm
BSD2 Independence Day, Schools and Offices Closed Libertyfest, 10am Parade from Village Hall to Redmond Recreational Complex, 6pm Music, 9:30pm Fireworks, Redmond Recreational Complex BPD Veteran’s
BPD Board Committee Meeting, 5:30 pm, DGLC
BCPL Little Learners, 10:30-11am
BSD2 Free Breakfast Program, 8:05-8:30am, Tioga (no service on July 4), THROUGH AUGUST 8 BSD2 Free Lunch Program, 11:35am-noon, Tioga (no service July 4), THROUGH JULY 19
Noon-5pm, Water
&
BCPL Polish Storytime, 10-10:30am BCPL Yoga Storytime, 11-11:30am Garden Club of Bensenville Monthly Meeting, 12-3pm, Bensenville Community Public Library, Diamond Room, All are welcome BCPL Board Game Social Club, 6-8:30pm Senior Luncheon, 10am-12:30pm, Heritage Center (Village Hall) BCPL Patio Play, 10:30-11am BCPL Cuentos en Espanol, 1:30-2pm
BCPL Terracotta Pot Painting, 6-7pm BCPL Art for Relaxation, 7-8pm Music In The Park, 7:30pm, Downtown Bensenville
BCPL Summer Craft Club, 1-11:45am BCPL Bug Hunt, 6-6:45pm
11-11:45am BCPL Little Learners, 10:30-11am
BCPL Polish Storytime, 10-10:30am BCPL Yoga Storytime, 11-11:30am BCPL Patio Play, 10:30-11am
Music In The Park, 7:30pm, Downtown Bensenville BPD Board Meeting, 5:30pm, DGLC BSD2 Board of Education Regular Business Meeting, 6:30pm, Educational Administration Center
BCPL Little Learners, 10:30-11am Village Board Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall
BCPL Summer Craft Club, 11-11:45am
FREE BREAKFAST PROGRAM | Tioga 8:05-8:30am, Tioga (no service on July 4) MONDAY –FRIDAY THROUGH AUGUST 8
BCPL, DIY Body Scrub, 6-7pm BCPL I Did a DNA Test, Now What?, 7-8 pm Music In The Park, 7:30pm, Downtown Bensenville FHS Board of Education Meeting, 7pm BCPL Polish Storytime, 10-10:30am BCPL Yoga Storytime, 11-11:30am BCPL Board Game Social Club, 6-8:30pm BCPL Cuentos en Espanol, 1:30-2pm BPD Beer Tasting & Bags, 3-5pm, White Pines Music In The Park, 7:30pm, Downtown Bensenville
BCPL Little Learners, 10:30-11am BCPL Family Art Night: Kaleidoscope, 6:30-7:30pm
BCPL Summer Craft Club, 11-11:45am Kindergarten Jump Start, 8-11am, Monday-Thursday at Tioga School THROUGH AUGUST 8
BPD Puppy Yoga, 10am, DGLC Exercise Rm. BPD Jim Geils Family Golf Night, 5pm, White Pines
FREE LUNCH PROGRAM | Tioga 11:35am-noon, Tioga (no service July 4) MONDAY –FRIDAY THROUGH JULY 19
BCPL Summer Craft Club, 11-11:45am BCPL Butt or Face?, 6-7pm BCPL Little Learners, 10:30-11am
bensenville august 2024
sunday monday tuesday wednesday thursday friday saturday
BCPL Grab & Craft for Kids and Teens, 9am-5pm BCPL Tech-splanation: iPhone, 10-11am BCPL Genealogy Group, 2-4pm BPD Dive-In Movie, Elemental , 7:30pm, Water Park & Splash Pad
Senior Luncheon, 10am-12:30pm, Heritage Center (Village Hall)
BCPL Polish Storytime, 10-10:30am BCPL Yoga Storytime, 11-11:30am BSD2 Walk-In Registration, 2-6pm, all BSD2 schools
NATIONAL NIGHT OUT
TUESDAY | AUGUST 6 6 PM TO 8 PM
BPD Puppy Yoga, 10:30am, DGLC Exercise Room
BCPL Cuentos en Espanol, 1:30-2pm BPD Live at White Pines, 6pm, Pavilion at White Pines
FHS Freshmen Orientation, 8:30am BCPL Polish Storytime, 10-10:30am BCPL Yoga Storytime, 11-11:30am Garden Club of Bensenville Monthly Meeting, 12-3pm, Bensenville Community Public Library, Diamond Room, All are welcome BCPL Board Game Social Club, 6-8:30pm
BCPL Mini Canvas Painting, 6-7pm Music In The Park, 7:30pm, Downtown Bensenville BPD Board Committee Meeting, 5:30pm, DGLC BPD Zumba Surf N Turf, 7pm, Water Park & Splash Pad BSD2 Board of Education Regular Workshop Meeting, 6:30pm, Educational Administration Cente
BCPL Little Learners, 10:30-11am CDC Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall National Night Out, 6-8pm, Downtown Bensenville
BCPL Summer Craft Club, 11-11:45am
Carrier Route Presort Postal Customer
BPD Three Dune Challenge, 8am-1pm, Indiana Dunes
BCPL Cuentos en Espanol, 1:30-2pm BSD2 New Teacher Orientation
BCPL Polish Storytime, 10-10:30am BCPL Yoga Storytime, 11-11:30am BSD2 New Teacher Orientation
FHS First Day of School BCPL Art for Relaxation, 7-8pm Music In The Park, 7:30pm, Downtown Bensenville
BCPL Little Learners, 10:30-11am Village Board Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall
BPD Yoga & Art at the Park, 6pm, Fischer Farm
BSD2 Pre-Kindergarten Home Visit Days (No Pre-Kindergarten Attendance)
BSD2 Pre-Kindergarten Home Visit Days (No Pre-Kindergarten Attendance)
BCPL Polish Storytime, 10-10:30am BCPL Board Game Social Club, 6-8:30pm BCPL LoveLit Book Club: 28 Summers, 7-8pm
BSD2 First Day of School, Grades K-8 BSD2 Board of Education regular meeting, 6:30pm, Educational Administration Center BSD2 Pre-Kindergarten Home Visit Days (No Pre-Kindergarten Attendance) BPD Board Meeting, 5:30pm, DGL
BSD2 Professional Development Day No Student Attendance
BSD2 Meet the Teacher, Grades Pre-K-5, last names A-K, 2:30-3pm, last names K-Z, 3-3:30PM, Johnson and Tioga Committee of the Whole Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall
BSD2 District Institute Day No Student Attendance
BPD Fitness Dayz Outdoor Bootcamp, 9am, Varble Park BPD Jim Geils Family Golf Night, 5pm, White Pines
BCPL Polish Storytime, 10-10:30am FHS Open House, 6pm FHS 12:08 pm Early Release
BSD2 CARE Volunteer Program Welcome Back Seminar, 10-11:30am, Educational Administration Center FHS Board of Education Meeting, 7pm
BSD2 First Day of School for Pre-Kindergarten Village Board Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall