bensenville hello!
a lifelong learning community | sept/oct 2024
VILLAGE OF BENSENVILLE
Hispanic Heritage Month CELEBRATION
September 22 | 11 am - 4 pm
2024 COFFEE WITH THE VILLAGE PRESIDENT
Village President Frank DeSimone and the Village Board continue 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 9:00-11:00 am. If there is inclement weather during the scheduled date, the event will not be rescheduled. Bring your family and friends!
2024 LOCATIONS
August 31 | Krempels Park
September 7 | Mohawk Park
September 14 | Breiter Palm Park
September 21 | Redmond Park Playground
September 28 | Sunset Park
October 5 | Heritage Center (Village Hall)
For more information, please visit the Village website: bensenville.il.us
LEARN TO SKATE PROGRAM –SIGN UP FOR FALL SESSIONS
The Edge Ice Arena offers learn-to-skate classes for all ages and abilities from 3 years old to adult. Fall sessions of Learn to Skate begin September 4 (Fall 1) and October 2 (Fall 2). Class details and registration information can be found on the Village website, www.bensenville.il.us, or call 630-766-8888.
The Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration honors the significant contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans on the history, culture, and achievements of the United States. The event, held at the Pavilion at White Pines, will feature authentic cuisine, live music, dancing, games, and crafts. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Admission is free, and the festivities will include a piñata contest, with the winner recognized during the event.
The Heritage Center is a welcoming space for members to enjoy daily programs, monthly senior luncheons, and special events tailored for our seasoned community members. Reach out to us at 630.350.3426.
HERITAGE CENTER
12 SOUTH CENTER ST | LOWER LEVEL
Hours | Monday – Friday | 9 am – 1 pm Daily | Coffee, Conversation, Question of the Day and Games
Tuesdays | Chair Yoga | 10 am Wednesdays | Walking Club | 9 am Thursdays | Sit & Be Fit | 10 am
Village of Bensenville 12 South Center Street
Bensenville, Illinois 60106
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
Flag Retirement Box Located At
Village Hall
Did you know there’s a flag retirement box located inside Village Hall? If you are wondering what to do with old or damaged flags, you can find a flag retirement box to the left of the main entrance at Village Hall. Once full, local Boy Scouts will properly dispose of flags in accordance with the US Flag Code. This box is accessible during regular hours of operation.
9. Vehicles on Approved Surface | All parking and driveway areas shall be paved with asphalt, concrete or approved paver, and kept in good repair. Parking on grass or gravel is not permitted. Parking of inoperable or unlicensed vehicles is not permitted on any surface. Obstruction of sidewalks by vehicles is prohibited.
PUMPKIN SMASH RECYCLING EVENT
In partnership with SCARCE, the Bensenville Public Works Department will host a pumpkin smash recycling event on November 2. This one-day event is a great opportunity to properly dispose of your Halloween pumpkins while having a little family fun. During the event, you will have the option to either chuck or smash your pumpkin into a dumpster. Smash events like this help keep pumpkins out of landfills and reduce the amount of harmful greenhouse gasses being released into the environment.
BENSENVILLE VILLAGE HALL PARKING LOT 12 S. Center Street, Bensenville, IL 60106 | 9 am – 12 pm
REMAINING 2024 VILLAGE BRUSH AND BRANCH PICK-UP DATES
As you begin your fall cleanup, keep in mind the remaining brush pick-updates for 2024 are September 3, October 7, and November 4. Please remember to have brush and branches out at the curb by 7:00 am and not to bundle piles with rope or wire. For additional details on brush and branch removal, please visit the Village website.
Is Halloween your favorite holiday? It’s time to gather all your scariest decorations and get creative for this year’s Halloween Home Decorating Contest! Nominate your home by emailing the property address, name, email or phone number, and picture (if possible) to holidaycontest@bensenville.il.us. Submitted properties will be posted to the Village’s Facebook page. Judging will be done by the Holiday Decorating Committee and awards will be given to the best decorated single-family homes. Winners will be announced at the October 22 Village Board Meeting and posted to the Village’s website at bensenville.il.us.
Nomination period – now through October 18. Entries must be received via email by 5pm on October 18.
TRICK-OR-TREAT OCTOBER 31
With Halloween right around the corner, it will soon be time to put together your most creative costumes and head out for trick-or-treating in the Village of Bensenville. The Village’s trickor-treating hours are 3 PM to 8 PM, October 31. For your convenience, trick-or-treating participation signs will be included in the October utility bill mailing and available on the Village website.
It is recommended children go only to homes they are familiar with and have outside lights on as a sign of welcome. As a friendly reminder, children should be cautioned of the dangers of running out from between parked cars, across yards, and reminded to look both ways before crossing the street. Have a fun and safe Halloween!
200 South Church Road
Bensenville | Illinois 60106 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
Sunday, September 1 | Labor Day Monday, September 2 | Labor Day
Get a LIBRARY CARD
To register, renew, or replace a Bensenville Library card, you must bring a valid governmentissued 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
Lit Loot Subscription Box: Latino Lit
SEPTEMBER 3 - OCTOBER 15 | GRADES 1-12
We’re celebrating Latino authors, characters, and stories! Sign up to reserve a box containing 2 books for checkout along with treats, activities, and crafts for you to keep. Fill out a brief survey to receive books tailored just for you. Register at the Youth Services desk, by emailing dblock@benlib.org, or by calling 630-766-4642.
Snacks from Around the World
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 | 3:30-4:30 P.M. | GRADES 6-12
Come on down and try some tasty treats from all over the world. Bring your appetite!
STEAM Lab: Make a Drawbot
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 | 6:30-7:30 P.M. | GRADES 1-5
Build and decorate your own drawing machine. We’ll study Roz from The Wild Robot and other favorite characters for inspiration. Registration is required at benlib.org/events.
Paint & Sip
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 30 | 6:30-7:30 P.M. | AGES 8+
Pumpkin spice season is here! Relax and unwind by painting a fresh fall scene while sipping on a hot or iced drink.
Chocolate Chip Cookie Baking
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 3 | 3:30-4:30 P.M. | GRADES 6-12
Stop by after school and make some chocolate chip cookies! Bring your appetite!
Mini Monster Painting
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24 | 1:00-2:00 P.M. | AGES 8+
Try your hand at painting tabletop game miniatures! Select your choice of monster from our supply of owlbears, werewolves, banshees and more.
Boba and Anime
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26
3:30-4:30 P.M. | GRADES 6-12
Drop by after school to make some boba tea and then enjoy an anime screening! This program is a perfect way to relax, connect with friends, and have fun watching an anime.
“A library in the middle of a community is a cross between an emergency exit, a life-raft and a festival. They are cathedrals of the mind; hospitals of the soul; theme parks of the imagination. On a cold rainy island, they are the only sheltered public spaces where you are not a consumer, but a citizen instead.”
― CAITLIN MORAN
Dungeons & Dragons
WEDNESDAYS STARTING SEPTEMBER 4 THRU NOVEMBER 20
(NO OCTOBER 9) | 3:00-5:00 P.M. | GRADES 6-12
Gather after school for a weekly high-octane, rules-light game session. Beginner and experienced players welcome.
Mini Canvas Painting for Teens
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 | 3:30-4:30 P.M. | GRADES 6-12
Want something fun to do after school? Paint a mini canvas however you want!
Lotería!
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 | 6:30-7:30 P.M. | ALL AGES
In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month we will be trying our hand at playing Lotería, a Mexican game of chance similar to bingo. Learn about the history of the game and its place in Mexican culture. There will be prizes!
Cuentos en Español y Inglés
SEPTEMBER 5 AND 19, OCTOBER 3 | 6:00-6:30 P.M.
ALL AGES; RECOMMENDED UP TO AGE 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 - in Spanish AND English. It’s a fantastic opportunity for language learning and fun bonding time.
Cookie Decorating
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 23 | 6:30-7:30 P.M.
ALL AGES; TEENS & ADULTS WELCOME
Decorate a sugar cookie at the library! This program is a sweet way to express your creativity and enjoy a fun, hands-on activity. All materials will be provided.
Scary Spooky Stories
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 28 | 6:00-6:45 P.M. | GRADES 6-12
Gather at sunset to toast s’mores and listen to ghastly tales. Share a story of your own ... if you dare.
DIY Exfoliating Body Scrub
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 30 | 6:30-7:30 P.M.
AGES 10 AND UP; TEENS AND ADULTS WELCOME!
Add to your self-care routine by making a body scrub at the library! All materials will be provided.
National Library Card Sign-Up Month
ALL SEPTEMBER LONG
This September, sign-up for a library card to enjoy savings, educational resources, and more! Whether you’re registering for a new card or updating an existing one, you’ll be eligible to receive some amazing library swag. Don’t miss out on this chance to unlock a world of knowledge and exclusive library benefits.
Art for Relaxation: A Coloring Program
WEDNESDAYS ON SEPTEMBER 11, OCTOBER 9 AND NOVEMBER 13
7:00-8:00 P.M. | ADULTS ONLY
Using a selection of printed, seasonal subjects, participants are welcome to bring their own art supplies or use those supplied for these music-enhanced relaxing, creativity sessions.
The Needle Guild
WEDNESDAYS FROM 7:00-8:00 P.M.
SEPTEMBER 3 & 17 | OCTOBER 1, 15 & 29 | NOVEMBER 12 & 26
Calling all knitting, crochet, and embroidery enthusiasts! Are you eager to expand your skills and meet fellow crafters? Look no further than the Needle Guild, your ultimate creative hub.
Time Capsule Unveiling
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 20 | 2:00-4:00 P.M.
Did you know there’s a time capsule on the Bensenville Library property? Join us as we make public its 40-year-old contents. Light refreshments will be served following the unveiling.
Taste & Tell Book Club
Each month we will dive into a new theme and cookbook. Pick your own cookbook or online recipe that fits the theme, then join our discussion as we share recipes and culinary experiences.
Harvest Bounty | Seed to Table by Luay Ghafari
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 | 7:00 P.M.
This month’s theme and spotlight cookbook focuses on how to feed your family with nutritious foods from your own garden.
Fireside Feast | Smoke & Pickles by Edward Lee
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 2 | 7:00 P.M.
This month’s theme and spotlight cookbook focuses on Edward Lee, a respected Southern chef with Korean and American influences.
FENTON COMMUNITY
HIGH SCHOOL | District 100 1000 West Green Street
Bensenville | Illinois 60106
630 766 2500
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
Rick Kambic | Director of Communications and Community Engagement
Stephanie Jackson
Interim Director of Learning/Division Leader
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
Lorenzo Rubio
Director of Equity/Division Leader
Carmen Abraham | Dean of Students
Marvin Vargas | Dean of Students
Brittany Ruttenberg | Technology Supervisor
FENTON COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL
Dear Fenton School Community,
Welcome to the 2024-2025 School Year! We had a busy summer and are excited to have Bison Nation back in our classrooms, hallways, and bleachers. Please keep reading for important updates:
Back to School
Thank you to our Bison Link Crew for making our freshmen feel so welcome and confident during their first few days of high school. Members of the Link Crew are upper class students that volunteer to mentor and be a resource for new students who are unfamiliar with all Fenton has to offer.
We also enjoyed an incredible spirit week that allowed students to engage with each other and our incredible staff in fun, meaningful ways that build community.
As we look ahead and plan our school year, we want to remind families in the Class of 2025 that Graduation will be Thursday, May 22, 2025. This is different than our normal weekend ceremony and might require different planning.
Construction Update
Construction for our new $32 million STEM Wing began in May 2024 and will continue through Summer 2025. 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 teacher to expand their curriculum and take their students’ imagination to new heights, inspiring students for decades to come.
Beginning the STEM project coincides with the conclusion of our $10 million Water Mitigation Project. The new massive storm water storage tank was successfully installed behind our stadium and all new drainage pipes are connected. This less visible enhancement will protect our school from heavy rain storms.
We now have a modern new artificial turf field that is more durable and available for our classes, clubs, and athletic teams. That means our soccer programs are finally competing on campus for the first time in decades. We also now have a modern IHSA regulation track. To celebrate the completed stadium renovations, we are offering free entry into our football home opener at 7 pm, Friday, September 6. All are welcome!
Homecoming
One of our favorite times of the year is Homecoming – scheduled for September 23rd through September 28th. This year’s Homecoming theme is Disco Nights. Our Homecoming Football Game is at 7 pm on September 27 against Riverside-Brookfield, and it’s the first Homecoming in our renovated stadium.
We love our community and we love our alumni, so please stop in and support the Mighty Bison!
Let’s Go BISON!
SAM BENTSEN, ED.D. | Interim Superintendent
As our soccer season ramps up and football season gets underway, we encourage everyone to enjoy the renovated stadium while respecting the neighboring construction site. We have fences and signage up to protect everyone’s safety.
FENTON COMMUNITY
HIGH SCHOOL | District 100 1000 West Green Street
Bensenville | Illinois 60106 630 766 2500 fenton100.org
Mission Statement
Cultivate successful, passionate, empowered learners through rigor, relevance and relationships.
Elizabeth Delgado ( Izzy )
THE FAST TRACK TO FAST PITCH ALL STATE
CONGRATULATIONS to Fenton softball player Elizabeth “Izzy” Delgado (senior) for earning All State 3rd Team honors at the catcher position during the 2023-2024 season. Elizabeth led the team in games played (all 37 games), at bats, batting average, slugging percentage, on base percentage, hits, triples, home runs (tied), runs batted in, runs scored, fewest strike outs, and most defensive put outs.
Elizabeth and her family were congratulated by the Fenton Board of Education in July.
Taking Action to Defeat Hunger
September is Hunger Action Month and food pantries across the United States are raising awareness about the many forms of food insecurity that quietly impact children, working adults, and senior citizens. Fenton High School continues to partner with the Bensenville-Wood Dale Food Pantry to address food insecurity by volunteering, fundraising, and bringing three mobile food pantries per year to our campus. If you are able, please contact the Bensenville-Wood Dale Food Pantry and ask how you can volunteer or donate funds in our name. Let’s work together to defeat hunger!
A BRIDGE TO SUCCESS
Congratulations to Class of 2024 graduates Bridget Toledo Guevara, Samantha Sanchez, and David Severiano for earning prestigious QuestBridge Scholarships to attend college at one of their choice schools. This four-year scholarship covers tuition, room and board, books, supplies, travel, and living expenses.
Bridget Toledo Guevara matched with Colby College in Maine and she plans to study Biology and Spanish, with a pre-med track.
David Severiano is attending Swarthmore College in Pennsylvania, where he plans to study Environmental Science.
Samantha Sanchez plans to major in Computer Science at her matched school, the University of Notre Dame in Indiana.
The QuestBridge National College Match is an equity program that connects high-achieving high school seniors from economically disadvantaged backgrounds with full four-year scholarships to the nation’s top colleges.
According to a Questbridge news release, this year’s 2,242 recipients combined for an average GPA of 3.94, and 93% of the students are in the top 10% of their graduating class.
FENTON High School Theater Department Presents:
The One-Act Play That Goes Wrong
Thursday | October 10 | 7 pm
Friday | October 11 | 7 pm
Saturday | October 12 | 1 pm & 7 pm
The One-Act Play That Goes Wrong is the story of a group of accident-prone actors that battle against all odds to get through their murder mystery show despite a plethora of hilarious mistakes and mishaps. It’s a shortened version of the popular Broadway show The Play That Goes Wrong.
Show dates are scheduled for October 10, 11 and 12.
Senior Citizens are invited to a free seniors matinee show at 1 pm on October 12.
Senior Citizens can reserve a spot at the October 12 FREE senior matinee by call 630.860.8620. The senior matinee includes complementary coffee and cookies.
As the show dates approach, please check the Fenton website (fenton100.org) for updates.
MUSICAL NOTES FOR YOUR CALENDAR
Fenton’s state-renowned musicians have a full schedule of public performances during the 2024-2025 school year. All are invited to attend and enjoy the artistic creativity on display.
October 20 | Fall Choir Concert | 3 pm
October 22 | Bandarama Concert | 7 pm
December 15 | Joint Holiday Concert | 2 pm
February 26 | Winter Choir Concert | 7 pm
March 6 | Winter Band Concert | 7 pm
March 9 | Spaghetti with a Song music department fundraiser | 1 pm
May 5 | Spring Choir Concert | 7 pm
May 7 | Spring Band Concert | 7 pm
BENSENVILLE PARK DISTRICT
HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH
The Bensenville Park District is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with several special events in September. September’s Young at Heart Lunch Bunch and Bingo kicks off the fun from 11 am to 3 pm Thursday, September 19, and features a lunch of steak fajitas, rice and beans from Los Buenos Diaz Mexican Grill. Fees are just $10 per person for in-district residents.
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
The final installment of the movie in the park series is a noche de pelicula that features a FREE special movie presentation of A Million Miles Away at the Pavilion at White Pines. Inspired by the real-life story of NASA flight engineer Jose Hernandez, the film follows his decades-long journey from a rural Mexican village to more than 200 miles above the Earth in the International Space Station. Admission is free, and food and beverages will be available for purchase.
Live at White Pines Salsa Night, sponsored by Los Buenos Diaz Mexican Grill, features live Salsa music from Projecto 7 in addition to Salsa lessons prior to the show. Admission is FREE! Gates open at 6 pm Saturday, September 21, with beverage service and Mexican food from Los Buenos Diaz available for purchase.
The festivities conclude with the Hispanic Heritage Celebration from 11 am to 4 pm Sunday, September 22. Admission is FREE, and the celebration will include authentic food, live music, dancing, games and crafts. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. More information may be found at BvilleParks.org/HispanicHeritage
HARVEST FEST
Harvest Fest at Fischer Farm returns from noon to 5 pm Saturday, October 5! Admission to the event, sponsored by Grand Subaru, is FREE in 2024 and will feature food, fun and live music for the whole family! Many activities are free, but tickets will be required to participate in some activities and to purchase food and beverages. More information can be found at BvilleParks.org/harvestfest.
ALL ABOARD!
Explore the history of trains in Bensenville at Bensenville Railroad Museum at Veteran’s Park. Stop by the 1920s-era locomotive between noon and 4 pm each Saturday and Sunday and participate in a different craft or activity each day. Can’t make it on the weekend? Drop in between 10 am and 1 pm Tuesdays for train stories, train table play time and train coloring. Admission to the facility is FREE and open for all ages to enjoy!
WHITE PINES GOLF CLUB: MORE THAN GOLF
White Pines Golf Club is beautiful in autumn! The course is operated by the Bensenville Park District and is open to the public. Book a tee time online at WhitePinesGolf.com. Off-season rates are scheduled to take effect in late October or early November, depending on the weather.
No matter the age or skill level, the professionals at White Pines are here to improve that golf game. Lessons are available. Visit WhitePinesGolf.com/instruction for more information. Children ages 4-8 should consider enrolling in Little Links, 3-4 pm Sundays, September 8-29, which provide a perfect way to introduce golf in a fun, engaging and exciting way. Call the Pro Shop at 630.766.0304 to enroll.
Meet up at 37 Bar & Grill to watch the game (or games) each weekend. Play a round of golf in the morning before watching football on the hi-def TVs and enjoy great food and drinks throughout the day. Beginning at 11 a.m. each NFL Sunday or during any Bears game, enjoy half-priced appetizers, $3 domestic beers and $5 Tito’s drinks. The video gaming room is also open daily.
Now is the time to book corporate events and holiday parties. Each guest will enjoy magnificent views, exemplary service and delectable cuisine at the White Pines Golf Club banquet facility. The club offers a variety of packages, and menus and bar options may be customized to fit the needs of any group of up to 240 guests.
Visit WhitePinesGolf.com for more information on these activities as well as the September 15 Jim Geils Family Golf Night.
CLUBHOUSE
The Bensenville Park District now offers an emergency childcare service in addition to before- and after-school care program and days-off-school program for area residents as part of the park district’s Clubhouse program. Full-time kindergarten through fifth grade students will participate in a variety of structured and unstructured indoor and outdoor activities such as group games, sports, nature exploration, arts, crafts, table days and homework time as part of the Clubhouse before- and after-school programs. Registration is on a monthly basis, and District 2 bus transportation is provided to and from Johnson and Tioga schools.
Child care is offered from 7 am to 6 pm on school holidays, institute days and in-service days (children must arrive by 9 am) for Days Off School. Drop-off and pick-up takes place in the Maple Room at the Deer Grove Leisure Center. Please bring a sack lunch and water bottle each day. A breakfast and afternoon snack will be provided. Visit BvilleParks.org/clubhouse for more information.
FISCHER FARM 4-H CLUB
Fischer Farm’s 4-H Club is a dynamic community for ages 8-18, focusing on personal growth, leadership and diverse projects. From agriculture to technology, members engage in workshops, community service and events, fostering lifelong skills and friendships in an inclusive environment. There’s even the chance to buy a pig, sheep or goat to keep at the farm and show at the DuPage County Fair! Learn more at the Fischer 4-H Club Open House between 10 am and noon Saturday, September 7, at Fischer Farm, 16W680 Old Grand Ave., Bensenville.
WOOD STREET FITNESS FREE FITNESS WEEK
Wood Street Fitness, located inside the Deer Grove Leisure Center, 1000 W. Wood St., Bensenville, will offer FREE access to its state-of-the-art free- and machine-weights and cardio equipment September 9-15. The free fitness week also includes free access to group fitness classes. A full schedule may be found at WoodStFitness.com/Classes. Membership rates can be found online at WoodStFitness.com/membership. Special rates are available for couples, teens and seniors, and corporate memberships are available.
PUPPY YOGA
Ages 14 and up can experience the joy of puppy yoga, featuring puppies from Border Tails Rescue! The 45-minute yoga flow with puppies roaming from mat to mat is followed by 15 minutes of cuddle time. Puppy yoga takes place 10:30-11:30 am Saturdays, September 7, October 12, November 23 and December 7. Fees are just $20, $18 in district, and benefit Border Tails Rescue.
FIT KIDS
Elementary school children are encouraged to join the FREE 100 Miles Running Squad, where they run or walk after school on the DGLC track each Tuesday and collect several special charms until they achieve their final 100-mile goal at the end of the school year! Kids yoga (4:30-5:15 pm Mondays, September 9 to October 7) and Zumba Kids (4-5 pm Mondays, October 21 to December 2) classes are also popular.
HALLOWEEN FUN
Get in the Halloween spirit with the Bensenville Park District! Dress in costume for Halloween Zumba ($8|$6), 7:158:15 Thursday, October 24, as prizes will be awarded for the best costumes at this fitness party! Then, join the fun at the spellbinding Monster Mash, 11 am to 2 pm Saturday, October 26, featuring a spooky walk leading to the Deer Grove Leisure Center Gym, where special attractions, crafts and activities await!
YOUNG AT HEART
The Bensenville Park District’s active adults have a full schedule of activities this fall—including some not in the printed program guide! New programs include a Chicago White Sox excursion September 14, Live and Let Die Paul McCartney tribute September 27, the Puttin’ on the Ritz dance on September 28, two trips to Fitzgerald’s for a Door County-style fish boil, revised Lunch Bunch and Bingo dates, STOP THE BLEED® training, the Dane County Farmer’s Market overnight trip November 1-2 and more! Register in advance at the Deer Grove Leisure Center. A schedule may be found in the online Fall Program Guide at BvilleParks.org.
VETERANS DAY BREAKFAST
The Bensenville Park District, Village of Bensenville and Fenton High School will join to salute those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces at the annual Veterans Day breakfast 9 am Monday, November 11, at the White Pines Golf Club banquet hall, 500 W. Jefferson St., Bensenville. Bensenville armed forces veterans and their families are invited to dine for free at the breakfast. Highlights include a guest speaker as well as presentations by Fenton High School Defending Freedom Essay Contest winners. Pre-registration is required. Call 630.766.7015.
PROGRAM REGISTRATION
The Bensenville Park District’s Fall Program registration is well underway and includes many holiday events. Register for programs and activities at the Deer Grove Leisure Center, 1000 W. Wood Street, Bensenville.
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 welcome back!
SCHOOL DISTRICT 2
FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT
Starting the new school year TOGETHER!
Greetings, BSD2 Families, Staff, and Community Members,
I hope everyone had a fun and refreshing break, and that we were all ready to come TOGETHER August 21 for the start of the 2024-2025 school year. (The first day of school has always been my favorite day of the year!)
We were incredibly busy all summer. TOGETHER, more than 500 students participated in our Traditional Summer School, Summer Enrichment, and Kindergarten Jump Start programs, which were held throughout the summer at Tioga School. We also served around 3,000 free meals to students over the summer, and 86 families signed up for appointments for free physicals and immunizations through our mobile health clinics administered by Hamdard Health Alliance.
We’ve welcomed a number of new staff members to District 2 this summer, including four new school administrators who will be introducing themselves as the school year begins: Diana Vergara, Blackhawk Principal; Jacqueline Le-Mon, Blackhawk Assistant Principal for Instruction, Curriculum, and Assessment; Mary Hamilton, Blackhawk Student Services Coordinator; and Monica Loveshe, Tioga Assistant Principal. We’re so grateful that each of our new hires has joined the BSD2 team, and we are excited to begin our work TOGETHER.
And I’m also pleased to report we are nearing completion of the $14.9 million renovation project at Blackhawk Middle School. While we were still working to finalize small parts of this project when classes began, the school was ready to open its doors for the first day of classes. I was so excited for students to step inside and see how this ambitious undertaking transformed so much of Blackhawk’s look, feel and function in such a short amount of time. Once all of the work is done, we will invite everyone–the entire BSD2 community–to see the new Blackhawk Middle School and celebrate this accomplishment TOGETHER.
This year, I would also like to engage parents in two new committees that will explore two topics that are very important to our community. Our Foreign Language in Elementary Schools (FLES) Committee will research how the District could potentially add an elementary Spanish program to the school day. This committee will meet once a month throughout the school year. The Superintendent’s Parent Safety Advisory Committee will assist in planning parent engagement events and discuss topics relative to school safety. It will meet twice a year. Parents, if you are interested in one or both of these opportunities, please fill out the interest survey at bsd2.org. TOGETHER, we will continue to make a positive impact on our school communities.
I look forward to making 2024-2025 another fabulous school year! We have so much to celebrate already! Remember, TOGETHER we can do anything! #BSD2gether
Sincerely,
DR. KATIE MCCLUSKEY
Superintendent of Schools
BENSENVILLE SCHOOL DISTRICT 2
SMART SUMMER FUN
Students enjoy daily enrichment activities during summer school
This summer, District 2 offered a new enrichment program that provided fun, engaging activities for students who were not in need of traditional summer school.
In this new enrichment program, students in gradelevel groupings rotated through a variety of fun summer enrichment activities each day. Those activities included…
• Technology
• The Art of Board Games
• Sports Sampler
• Gardening
• Cricut
• The Love of Writing
• Golf Through Math
• Punch Needling
• Civics
• Arts and Crafts
• Water Painting
• Jewelry Making
The free enrichment program coincided with traditional summer school, which ran throughout June at Tioga School, and also included daily enrichment activities in addition to blocks of literacy and math instruction.
A NEW CHAPTER
Blackhawk renovation project provides innovative classrooms, collaborative spaces, and updated facilities that enhance the overall learning experience
After a full summer of extensive renovations, Blackhawk Middle School welcomed students and staff to a state-of-the-art school that aligns with the evolving needs of education. Here are some of this project’s key improvements, which were identified by students, staff and administrators:
• All new student-tested and staff-approved classroom furniture that can be easily moved and flexibly arranged to readily allow for collaborative learning.
• Installation of new flooring, lighting, and whiteboards in classrooms, and wall-to-wall painting to bring a brighter, more modern, consistent and cohesive look and feel throughout the building.
• Upgrades to classroom technology to create a wireless environment for both students and teachers.
• Enlargement of 12 classrooms by removing six workspaces that were connected to neighboring spaces.
• Addition of four new classrooms, and conversion of three existing classrooms into as many as nine flexibly divided small-group spaces. These flex spaces can be used for collaborative learning, interventions, and meetings, or as staff workspaces.
• Addition of a new fitness center adjacent to the gym, and conversion of the old fitness center space into a dedicated special education classroom with a sensory room and restroom.
• Remodeling of remaining outdated science rooms, expansion of the health office, and renovation of the school’s two outdoor learning courtyards.
These projects were estimated to cost around $14.9 million, and are being paid for with a combination of savings and bonds.
Truly, this project is about so much more than bricks and mortar; it‘s about our commitment to creating an environment where our students can thrive and prepare for the challenges and opportunities of the future. It’s about the BSD2 community’s collective commitment to learning and growing together.
LOVE BOOKS?
Be like Jaci! Become a library volunteer!
In January 2023 Jaci Charbonneau saw a post on the BSD2 Facebook page seeking residents who love books to volunteer at the Tioga library. She answered the call, and she’s been volunteering ever since!
Now retired from United Airlines, Jaci raised her family in Bensenville, sending her son and daughter to BSD2 schools. An avid community volunteer, she spends at least an hour a week volunteering in Tioga’s library, helping reshelve books, and occasionally reading to classes.
Jaci says she just loves the library staff and how enthusiastic the students are when they show up in the library ready to read new books! And, of course, we love having Jaci volunteer at Tioga’s library! Thank you, Jaci!
WHAT ABOUT YOU?
Do you have a passion for books? Would you have just an hour a week to assist our librarians? Because our libraries could use volunteers from the community!
If interested, please contact Lara Schwarz, BSD2 CARE Coordinator and Community Liaison at 630.766.2605 ext. 3202 or lschwarz@bsd2.org.
WANT MORE BSD2 NEWS?
Follow us on Facebook at Bensenville School District 2
Follow us on Twitter @BensenvilleD2. Visit bsd2.org | About Us | News,
CARE TO VOLUNTEER?
District 2’s CARE Volunteer Program is the perfect place to make a big difference in students’ lives!
Wednesday, August 28, was Welcome Day for the BSD2 CARE Volunteer Program. This was where we welcomed back experienced volunteers and introduced new ones to the District and to the CARE program.
But don’t worry if you missed it and want to volunteer!
CARE kicks off September 9, so just contact Lara Schwarz, CARE Coordinator & Community Liaison, at 630.766.2605, ext. 3202, or lschwarz@bsd2.org. Let her know that you want to give just one hour of your time each week as a CARE volunteer. Lara and our team of CARE Facilitators will find the perfect place for you to make a big difference in the lives of District 2 students!
JOIN US!
Become a parapro, and become a part of our classrooms!
We’re hiring paraprofessionals to serve in a variety of different capacities.
“What’s a paraprofessional?” Good question–they’re vital members of so many of our classrooms. Parapros serve as instructional aides, assisting in classroom settings under the supervision of certified teachers. Many of them work one-on-one with students to meet their unique needs.
Their primary responsibilities include:
• Assisting with the preparation and adoption of instructional materials.
• Assisting with the supervision, escorting, and instruction of students, as directed.
• Assisting the teacher with all aspects of the daily instructional program.
• Assisting with the maintenance of accurate records on student progress.
• Participating in staff development activities as directed by contract.
• Performing other duties as may be assigned by the administration.
Paraprofessionals work seven hours a day five days a week, and get summers, winter and spring break, and holidays off. As full-time employees, they qualify for the District’s insurance benefits, and they contribute toward IMRF pension plans. Their pay starts at $16.80 per hour, and those serving in bilingual and special education roles receive annual stipends ranging from $1,300 to $1,950.
Parapros must have excellent communication skills, basic computer knowledge, and a paraprofessional license. Anyone 19 or older who holds a high school diploma or equivalent now qualifies for a DuPage County Short-Term Approval Paraprofessional License.
For more information on becoming a BSD2 paraprofessional, visit bsd2.org/parapro.
To apply, visit bsd2.org/employment.
BUS DRIVERS! LUNCH SUPERVISORS! CROSSING GUARDS!
Looking for part-time employment? District 2 has the perfect opportunity for you!
District 2 is looking to fill several part-time positions that are perfect employment opportunities for retirees and for parents interested in working while their children are at school.
To apply for any of these positions, visit bsd2.org/employment.
BUS DRIVERS
Being a part-time bus driver is a rewarding opportunity! Pay starts at $27 per hour, and includes sick days and contributions toward an IMRF pension. District 2 also provides paid training for the required commercial driver’s license and longevity bonuses for years of service.
LUNCH & RECESS SUPERVISORS
Many of our lunch and recess supervisors are parents working part time during the middle of the day while their children are at school. Lunch and recess supervisors work with students in order for students to eat lunch, come and go from the lunchroom and playground, and monitor students’ behavior while they eat and play. Some supervisors also work breakfast shifts. Pay starts at $15.00 per hour.
CROSSING GUARDS
Crossing guards work short shifts every morning and every afternoon, helping students cross busy intersections and walkways on their way to and from school. Pay starts at $15.00 per hour.
september 2024
bensenville
BPD 4-H Club Open House, Fischer Farm Coffee with the President, 9am, Mohawk Park (Hillside Drive) BCPL Snacks from Around the World, 3:30-4:30pm BCPL Cuentos en Espanol y
BCPL Dungeons & Dragons, 3-5pm BCPL Taste & Tell Book Club, 7pm BPD Board Meeting, DGLC
BCPL Needle Guild, 7-8pm CDC Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall FHS Keeping Our Kids Cyber Safe, 6-8pm LABOR DAY BSD2 Schools & Offices Closed FHS No School
Fitness Week, Wood St. Fitness BCPL Mini Canvas Painting for Teens, 3:30-4:30pm Garden Club of Bensenville Monthly Meeting, 12-3pm, Bensenville Community Public Library, Diamond Room, All are welcome BPD
Fitness Week, Wood St. Fitness BCPL Dungeons & Dragons, 3-5pm BCPL Art for Relaxation, 7-8pm BPD
Wood St.
Board Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall BPD
Fitness Week, Wood St. Fitness BPD Free Fitness Week, Wood St. Fitness Coffee with the President, 9am, Breiter Palm Park BCPL STEAM Lab: Drawbot, 6:30-7:30pm FHS Senior Portraits Retake/Make Up, 3:30-7pm
BSD2 TEACHER INSTITUTE DAY No Student Attendance BPD Noche de Pelicula: A Million Miles Away , Pavilion at White Pines
BCPL Cuentos en Espanol y Ingles, 6-6:30pm BSD2 Developmental Screenings, by appointment, no Pre-K attendance BSD2 Pre-Kindergarten Curriculum Night, Morning Classes 4:15-4:45pm, Afternoon Classes 4:45-5:15pm BSD2 Blackhawk Middle School Curriculum Night, 6:30-8pm
BCPL Dungeons & Dragons, 3-5pm BSD2 Developmental Screenings, by appointment, no Pre-K attendance BSD2 Board of Education Regular Business Meeting, 6:30pm, EAC BPD Board Meeting, DGLC
BCPL Needle Guild, 7-8pm BSD2 Johnson & Tioga Curriculum Nights, Last Names A-K: 5:306pm, Last Names L-Z: 6-6:30pm Committee of the Whole Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall FHS Senior Portraits Retake/Make Up, 3:30-7pm
BPD Free Fitness Week, Wood St. Fitness BPD Jim Geils Family Golf Night, White Pines
Railroad Museum at Veteran’s Park!
BPD Live at White Pines Salsa Night, Pavilion at White Pines Coffee with the President, 9am, Redmond Park Playground FHS Homecoming Week BPD Hispanic Heritage Celebration, Pavilion at White Pines FHS Homecoming Week Village Board Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall FHS Homecoming Week BCPL Dungeons & Dragons, 3-5pm FHS Board of Education Meeting, 7pm FHS Homecoming Week FHS Homecoming Bonfire, 7pm BCPL Boba and Anime, 3:30-4:30pm BCPL Loteria, 6:30-7:30pm FHS Homecoming Week FHS Homecoming Football Game, 7pm BPD Family Campfire, Fischer Farm FHS Homecoming Dance, 7pm BPD Puttin’ on the Ritz Dance, DGLC Coffee with the President, 9am, Sunset Park BCPL Paint & Sip, 6:30-7:30pm
Explore the history of trains at the Bensenville Railroad Museum. Stop by the 1920s-era locomotive between noon and 4 pm each Saturday and Sunday and participate in a different craft or activity each day.
Details on page 10!
BPD Harvest Fest, Fischer Farm Coffee with the President, 9am, Heritage Center
BCPL Chocolate Chip Cookie Baking, 3:30-4:30pm BCPL Cuentos en Espanol y Ingles, 6-6:30pm Senior Luncheon, 11am, Heritage Center, Village Hall
BCPL Dungeons & Dragons, 3-5pm BCPL Taste & Tell Book Club, 7pm BSD2 First-Trimester Mid-Term FHS Picture Day for Fresh/Soph/Jr
BCPL Needle Guild, 7-8pm BPD Board Meeting, DGLC CDC Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall FHS NHS Summer Community Service Deadline
BCPL Art for Relaxation, 7-8pm Garden Club of Bensenville Monthly Meeting, 12-3pm, Bensenville Community Public Library, Diamond Room, All are welcome FHS Fall Play The One-Act Play That Goes Wrong , 7pm BPD Serenity Sisters Women’s Wellness Escape, DGLC FHS Fall Play The One-Act Play That Goes Wrong , 7pm FHS Fall Play The One-Act Play That Goes Wrong , 1pm
Village Board Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall
Carrier Route Presort Postal Customer Bensenville | Illinois 60106
BPD Pumpkin Palooza, Fischer Farm
BCPL Dungeons & Dragons, 3-5pm BSD2 Board of Education Regular Business Meeting, 6:30pm, EAC BPD Board Meeting, DGLC
COLUMBUS DAY/INDIGENOUS PEOPLES’ DAY , BSD2 Schools & Offices Closed BCPL Needle Guild, 7-8pm Committee of the Whole Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall
BPD Monster Mash, Water Park/DGLC BPD Haunted District, DGLC
BSD2 Parent-Teacher Conferences No Student Attendance BCPL Boo-Tacular, 6-8pm
BCPL Mini Monster Painting, 1-2pm BSD2 Professional Development Day No Student Attendance BPD Halloween Zumba
BCPL Dungeons & Dragons, 3-5pm BCPL Cookie Decorating, 6:30-7:30pm
BCPL Time Capsule Unveiling, 2-4pm Village Board Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall
BCPL Dungeons & Dragons, 3-5pm BCPL DIY Exfoliating Body Scrub, 6:30-7:30pm Trunk-or-Treat, 3pm, Village Hall Halloween Trick-or-Treating, 3pm to 8pm
BCPL Scary Spooky Stories, 6-6:45pm BCPL Needle Guild, 7-8pm