Lake County Gazette

The Hawthorn District 73 Board of Education had a board meeting that highlighted scholarships and donations from the Hawthorn Education Association.

“HEA wants to extend our appreciation to the Hawthorn PTO regarding the week-long teacher appreciation,” HEA President Erin Roche said during the meeting. “The Hawthorne PTO did an outstanding job of showing their support to everyone who helps educate our students. It was not just for the teachers but for our ESPs, administrators, tech. It was more than a nice gesture. You made us feel special. The staff could actually feel appreciation. So thank you for all your time, effort and dedication to all of us.”

The recipients of the association’s scholarships are alumni of the district.

Anna, a former student at Hawthorn Middle North, was granted a scholarship by the Hawthorn Education Association for her work in founding the Vernon Hills High School chapter of the Science Olympiad, serving as a co-vice president for Future Business Leaders of America, and donating countless hours at various organizations.

Crysta, a former student from Hawthorn Middle South, also won a scholarship from the Association. After spending years volunteering for different organizations, she received a certification in teen mental health and has been working under the supervision of professionals with doctorates in chemistry and engineering.

As a part of their annual donations, the HEA will be donating to the Elementary North School Food Pantry, as well as the brand new South Store. The South Store was started by two teachers who wanted to be able to provide students with the basics that they might not have access to, such as deodorant, toothpaste and hairbrushes. They are hoping to expand to nonperishable snacks and school supplies.

The board hosts its public meetings at 7 p.m. once or twice per month at the district office located at 841 West End Court, Vernon Hills, IL 60061.