D61 Students and Staff Attend DuPage IPA Breakfast

The Illinois Principals Association (IPA) honors students each year who go above and beyond in academics, positive attitudes and leadership at the Student Recognition Breakfast. Teachers and principals are able to select two students to honor at the event with two fifth grade and two eighth grade students being selected to attend. We wanted to highlight these incredible students and why they were selected!

Andre Ristov and Lora Hadzhilvanova are both fifth graders at Lace Elementary School who were selected to attend. 

“Andre exemplifies the qualities that make an outstanding fifth-grade student and community member,” said his teacher Rachel Parish. “What truly sets Andre apart is his character. He is a dependable helper who is always willing to support both peers and teachers and has earned the respect and admiration of the entire Lace School community, not just his own classroom teachers. His kindness and compassion are evident in his daily interactions, and he possesses a rare maturity: the courage to stand up firmly yet politely for others when it matters. He is the kind of student who makes Lace School a better place simply by being present.”

“Lora is being recognized for both her academic achievements and the quality of her personal character,” said her teacher Rebecca Berry. “Lora is a hard worker who shows dedication to her studies and puts in the time and effort to do well. Academics are important to her, and it shows. She is a kind, thoughtful, and trustworthy student who can be counted on to think of others, help out when/where she can, and consistently demonstrates integrity.”

Eisenhower Junior High School was also represented by Sam Gruberman and Brayden Schramm who were chosen because of their leadership, character, perseverance, and empathy. 

“Sam’s ambition is visible in her athletic pursuits as a key member of the cross country and track teams, she played a vital role in leading the EJH girls' team to qualify for the state meet,” shared Principal Jacob Buck. “Beyond her athletic grit, Sam is most respected by faculty and peers for being a ‘high-quality human.’ Her kindness, integrity, and consistent work ethic make her a premier representative of the EJH community and a deserving recipient of this IPA recognition.”

“In the classroom, Brayden is known as a trusted friend and a student who leads with empathy,” shared Buck. “He frequently goes out of his way to assist teachers and classmates, ensuring that those around him feel valued and included. His genuine care for others and his willingness to help, both in and out of the academic setting, make him an indispensable part of the school culture. Brayden’s kindness and integrity serve as a model for his peers, and he displays sportsmanship and a consistently positive and encouraging attitude.”