As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.

~John Fitzgerald Kennedy

Thanksgiving is truly a word of action; and our students, dedicated staff, engaged parents, and supportive community make me grateful to be part of Palos 118. Here are some reasons why:

• High-achieving students: Palos 118 scored 95.6% on the Illinois Standard Achievement Test (ISAT), ranking in the top 5% of Illinois school districts. It is a historic, all time high overall score for our school district.
• Dedicated staff: Students would not be able to achieve such high standardized test scores were it not for top-notch teachers. This is American Education Week, and we recognize our excellent teachers, as well as administrators and support staff that make Palos 118 so successful.
• Committed parents: Parents have been the backbone of Palos 118's accomplishments; from encouraging good study and nutrition habits, to attending open houses and conferences. Parent Visitation Days were held this week at all three schools, and the high attendance is a testament to our parents' dedication.
• Supportive organizations: The Parent Faculty Association (PFA), Music Parents Association (MPA), and Educational Foundation, raise much needed funds for our schools and organize events that make terrific memories for the students. These organizations are a valuable asset to our learning family.
• Diligent school board: The Palos 118 school board is comprised of enthusiastic people who truly have the best interests of the children in mind. Illinois School Board Members Day was November 15, and we recognized our own board members for their strong leadership and governance.
• Balanced budget: For the fifth year in a row, our district is reporting a balanced budget. In tough economic times, this is no accident, but a result of fiscal conservatism. Maintaining a strong financial footing allows us to stay focused on educating students, rather than worrying about finances.
• Our community: At the Veterans Day ceremony November 10 at Palos South, I was again reminded of how lucky we are to live in a country and community with so many examples of loyalty and dedication. Our middle school students learned about sacrifice and expressed their gratitude to local veterans in a meaningful way.

Our learning community demonstrates reasons to be thankful each day. Providing an excellent education to children of Palos 118 is our singular purpose, and I am thankful we have the people and resources that allow us to achieve this goal.

Wishing you a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving,

Joseph M. Dubec, Ed.D., J.D.
Superintendent of Schools

Palos South Honors Veterans

Service members from the Great Lakes Naval Station reverently enacted the "Olde Glory Presentation" as they passed a folded flag with slow salutes at the school's annual Veterans Day Ceremony.

Family members and friends of the children of Palos 118 who have served the country were honored in a ceremony November 10 with recognition, song, and symbolism. Over 40 local veterans from each branch of the armed forces were called by name at the school assembly, as students exchanged hugs and handshakes with the parents, grandparents, and loved ones they honored.

"It is important that our children understand the sacrifices that our armed forces have made for them by protecting our country," said Palos 118 School Board Member, Kathy Svanascini, "and it is important that the children be given a chance to express their thanks and admiration to the veterans in our community and families. " Svanascini's son, Alex, plays in the Cardinal Symphonic Band and honored his grandfather, George Jacobek, who served in the Army from 1967-1969.

The ceremony was sponsored by the Student Council, whose officers emceed the event before an audience of local dignitaries, students, and its military veterans and families. They announced that the school had successfully raised enough money to sponsor an "Honor Flight," sending a local a veteran to Washington D.C. to visit their war memorial.

Other parts of the service included the Cardinal Choir's rendition of "One Wish," and the Cardinal Symphonic Band playing a musical tribute to all of the service sets; "Anchors Aweigh," "The Caissons Go Rolling Along," "The Marine's Hymn," and "The U.S. Airforce Song." Brittany Klimas and Julia Brodecki recited their winning "Patriot's Pen" essays, and trumpeter Luke Pappas played "Taps" before the close of the ceremony.