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May/June 2013
Glenbrook South H.S. | Connections
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Leaving her mark: Glenbrook musical will be last for director
A piano can be heard lightly playing down the hall as Stevi Marks settles in to her desk tucked away in the Music Department at Glenbrook South. Soon the piano is accompanied by the beautiful, smooth singing voice of a student, undoubtedly practicing for the upcoming District musical "West Side Story."
The song is welcome background music in Marks' office, which almost serves as an archive to the many productions that have graced the stage at GBS with publicity shots, old programs, awards and dozens of photos filling her bookshelves and walls.
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Stevi Marks (center, red) works with students during a recent rehearsal of the Glenbrook musical.
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It's been 20 years of musicals, variety shows and choir performances for the music teacher who serves as director of this year's musical. And on May 4, Marks will give one of her final bows at the Glenbrooks.
"Right now, I feel the same about this show as I have about past shows because the goal is the same: that the kids have an outstanding time and accomplish the goals they set out to accomplish," Marks said, who is retiring at the end of next school year. "But I will miss being in rehearsals. Watching the kids take emotional risks because they feel safe in front of their peers is so inspiring."
Every year, students from Glenbrook North and Glenbrook South come together to present a District-wide musical. This year's choice of "West Side Story" was personally selected by Marks and the GBS production staff for its timelessness, relevant message and iconic choreography and music.
The goal of the show is to really bring it out into the audience, both physically and emotionally. The stage will be extended out over the orchestra pit, and the set was purposefully built tall and large to make the audience feel overwhelmed and almost trapped by their surroundings, explained Rich Winship, lighting designer/technical director and auditorium manager at GBS.
And through complex choreography and music, Marks said the timeless messages of teenage angst, bigotry and intolerance will become clear.
"Mrs. Marks and our dance director Mrs. Lasky have made it their goal to live up to the play's original intent by making the dance choreography and individual dialogue as precise and emotional as possible. I really think this is going to come across to the audience, and I'm excited to see the public's reaction to their great efforts," said GBN student and a member of this year's cast Alex Kaplan.
Still, beyond the impression left on members of the audience throughout the four day run of the show, it is clear that Marks' work as an educator, director and co-worker extends well beyond any stage, production or school for that matter.
She has touched the lives of many through her positivity, kindness and talent, Winship said, and her departure will certainly be felt.
"Stevi has been the greatest influence and most important colleague in my 45+ years in theatre. We share the same intense devotion to our craft and pretty much have gotten to the point where we can complete each other's thoughts, artistically speaking," he said. "I think we're both absolutely committed to settling for nothing less than excellence, and we challenge each other to achieve it. It's not a spoken thing, but it's there."
"Stevi has skills that some directors do not possess," said Bonnie Lasky, GBS choreographer. "She is a true triple threat, meaning she can sing, act and dance. She also gets involved in the set and lighting design. She sees the total picture of the production and really pulls it all together."
For more on the musical, click here.
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Calendar Highlights
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1-4 - Glenbrook Musical @ GBS
6-17 - AP Exams
7 - Science Honors & Awards Night
9 - Spring Band Concert
10 - Spring Fling
13 - Board of Education Mtg., 7 p.m. @ GBN
14 - Student Late Arrival,
10 a.m.
Spring Choral Concert, 7:30 p.m.
16 - Orchestra & Master Singers Concert, 7:30 p.m.
17 - Prom (See article)
22 - Senior Seminar
(See article)
College Transition Night
23 - Honors & Awards Assembly, 8:15 a.m.
Late Arrival for Freshmen and Sophomores,
10:40 a.m.
24 - Peer Mentor/Circle of Friends Breakfast
Chamber Singers Concert, 7:30 p.m., St. David's Church
27 - Memorial Day, No School
28 - Jazz Nite, 7:30 p.m.
29-30 - Senior Exams
31 - Nine After Dark Concert, 6:30 p.m.and
8:30 p.m.
June
2 - Graduation Ceremony, 3 p.m. @ Rosemont Theatre at Rosemont
4-6 - Final exams
6 - Last Day of School
7 - Solace at Sunset, 6:30 and 8:30 p.m.
10 - Board of Education Meeting, 7 p.m. @ GBN
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Final exam schedule
The senior final exam schedule can be found by clicking here. The final exam schedule for freshmen, sophomores and juniors can be found by clicking here.
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Grad Nite and Grad Cards
A group of parents have started planning this year's Grad Nite and is seeking other parents to volunteer and/or chaperone. Grad Nite is a safe celebration for our seniors and has become a popular, fun-filled tradition that is usually attended by more than 85% of the class. Parents of students from all classes are welcome to join the committee. If you would like to assist, please
please e-mail Holly Jennings at ehjennings@comcast.net or contact Jayme Bielanski at 847-708-6112
Additionally, the popular Grad Cards are on sale and cost $5. Grad Cards are a great way to honor a graduate and support the Grad Nite event. To order a card for a GBS student, please contact Margie Zimmer at zimfamily5@gmail.com/(847) 977-3042 or Jayme Bielanski at (847) 708-6112.
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"Save the Last Dance" Prom 2013
The GBS Junior/Senior Prom "Save The Last Dance" will take place on Friday, May 17 from 7 p.m.-12 a.m. The Prom will be held at the Crowne Plaza O'Hare, 5440 North River Road Rosemont, IL 60018.
Prom includes dinner and dancing with music provided by The Party Faithful. The dance is chaperoned by GBS administrators, staff and a police liaison officer. This is a school-sponsored event; all school rules apply.
Prom bids will be sold in the GBS Bookstore. The cost is $65 per person or $130 per couple. Bids will not be sold at the door. There will be assigned table reservations this year.
Bids will be sold from April 23-May 3. If a student purchases a bid by May 3, they will have the opportunity to have reserved seating for the Prom. On May 7and 8 during lunch periods, students will be given paperwork to reserve seats. In order to reserve a table, groups must complete a table reservation form and fill all 10 spots at the table. Reserved tables will not be available for less than 10 students. Prom bids will remain on sale for one more week, May 6-10, but students will not be allowed to reserve a seat.
Tips for parents:
· If your child will be riding in a limousine, talk to the driver to make sure he or she knows your expectations for behavior in the limousine. Give the driver a phone number to call if there is a problem. Often drivers are coming from other bookings (weddings, parties, etc.). Please check the vehicle for left over alcohol. Please remember that school administration will search limos, busses, etc.
· Your child will most likely want to change clothes after Prom and will use an over-night bag. Please consider checking these items.
· Consider discussing rules for the prom: your own rules, the school rules, and the consequences for violating
· If your child is planning to spend the night at a friend's house after Prom, consider checking with that friend's parents to make sure a responsible adult will be present.
· Please remember that parent expectations are still the number one reason adolescents choose to say "NO."
For further information or questions, contact Julie Smith at (847) 486-4661 or by email at jsmith@glenbrook225.org.
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Bus registration for students 
Early-bird student bus registration for the 2013-14 school year ends Monday, June 3. Parents may save up to $150 if registration is completed by Monday, June 3. Register online by clicking here.
Please note: Only incoming freshmen will receive bus packets by mail. Bus packets for sophomores, juniors and seniors will be available for printing at www.glenbrook225.org or for pick-up in the District Office.
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Textbook Buy Back
- Seniors may resell their textbooks at the bookstore from May 28-June 6
- All other students may resell their textbooks from June 4-June 6
- Bookstore hours are 7:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m.
- Textbooks must be in good condition and free of writing. Workbooks and paperback books will not be bought back.
Parents/guardians must present proper identification to receive cash from the buyback.
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Senior seminar
The Student Services Department at Glenbrook South will present the senior class with the Senior Seminar on Wednesday, May 22, beginning at 8 a.m. and running through period 5. Seniors will have period six to eat lunch and will attend their period 7 and 8 classes.
The program will provide students with information about some of the real issues they will face, including the adjustments that result from being away from home for the first time. The program also includes the mandatory graduation assembly.
For the day's full agenda, click here.
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Teacher nominated for Golden Apple
Greg Wojcik, a Music teacher at Glenbrook South, has been named as one of only 32 finalists in the state of Illinois for a Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching, one of the most prestigious awards given to Illinois teachers. 
The finalists, selected from a pool of 510 nominations and 215 applications, represent teachers throughout the Chicago metropolitan area. The purpose of the award is to honor and recognize outstanding educators for their role in building a stronger, better-educated society.
The 32 finalists will participate in a final round of review and observations prior to the announcement of the 10 recipients in May.
"The tenacity and passion that these teachers possess for their classrooms, schools and communities are inspiring. They represent the epitome of excellence in education. We are proud to have them represent Golden Apple's mission to inspire, develop and support teacher excellence in Illinois," said President and CEO of Golden Apple Dominic Belmonte in a statement.
The Golden Apple's selection committee is comprised of prominent retired teachers, college and university professors, administrators and former Golden Apple Award recipients. As part of the process, the finalists are observed in their classrooms and the selection committee conducts interviews with teachers, colleagues, supervisors, students and parents.
Each Golden Apple Award recipient receives a tuition-free, spring quarter sabbatical to study at Northwestern University and a $3,000 cash award. They also become fellows of the Golden Apple Academy of Educators.
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School Calendar 2013-14
Aug 21 First Day of School
Sept 2 No School
Sept 5 No School
Nov 11 No School
Nov 27-29 No School
Dec 23-Jan 3 No School
Jan 6 Classes Resume
Jan 13 Reserved Snow Day (No school if no emergency days have been used prior)
Jan 20 No School
Feb 17 No School
March 24-28 No School
March 31 Reserved Snow Day
April 18 No School
May 26 No School
June 5 Tentative Last Day of School
(Unless emergency days are needed)
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Actor Emily Bergl returns to home high school
Students preparing for this year's Glenbrook musical had a little piece of Hollywood to learn from this week.
Actor Emily Bergl, GBS class of 1993, visited Glenbrook South on Monday with her director and musical director to talk about being a professional actress, perform Cabaret and provide input to young performers in a master class. 
Bergl is best known for her roles on television shows "Desperate Housewives," "Southland" and "Men In Trees," as well as Broadway show "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof." She also starred in the horror sequel "The Rage: Carrie 2."
Speaking to students in the choir room, she encouraged those interested in theater or acting to follow their passions despite what critics may say. However, they must be aware that this type of career does come with many sacrifices, including being away from family and friends for extended periods of time and during important events.
Bergl also spoke about the decisions she has made within her own career to ensure she was staying true to her passion and not being pigeonholed into one type of role. For example, following "Carrie 2" she turned down other horror film roles to protect herself from the "scream queen" label. She also has a particular love for the theater, and has continued to seek opportunities within that realm.
"I do T.V. to financially support my theater career," she said.
Following her meet and greet with students, Bergl performed excerpts from her upcoming cabaret show. Students also performed monologues and musical numbers and received critiques and feedback from Bergl and her team.
This year's Glenbrook musical is "West Side Story." Performances will be held at GBS on May 1-4 at 7:30 p.m. in the Norman E. Watson Auditorium. Tickets are $13 and can be purchased by visiting showtix4u.com.
In addition, the Glenbrook Foundation will host a Dinner Theatre Benefit on Saturday, May 4. Tickets are $75 and include dinner in the GBS Lyceum at 5 p.m. before the show, premium seating for the musical and a Foundation donation.
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Each month, this section will feature a different article that ran in Glenbrook South's student-run newspaper The Oracle, and, occasionally, other student-produced work. A new edition of The Oracle is distributed approximately every five weeks and can be found in newsstands throughout the school. It is also mailed to all Parents' Association members. This month's article is written by Staff Reporter Aaron Ach.
Project Lead the Way (PLTW), a Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)-intensive program, will be introduced to South next school year with two new courses.
According to Dawn Hall, the instructional supervisor of the Applied Technology Department, the PLTW initiative was originally designed as a solution to a problem the entire nation faces. That problem is a decreased interest and pursuit in the STEM fields during a time when society needs to increase interest and the number of careers in these different sectors, according to Hall. 
With the program's debut next year, students will be able to enroll and participate in Principles of Engineering along with Introduction to Engineering Design.
However, the opportunities Hall envisions for students will fully arrive during and after the 2014-2015 school year, at which point six specific classes will be unveiled. These courses include Aerospace Engineering, Biotechnical Engineering, Civil Engineering and Architecture, Computer Integrated Manufacturing, Digital Electronics, and Engineering Design and Development.
"In truth, [PLTW] is a pre-engineering program of study that is really designed to support a student [...] after high school [...] to be more successful," Hall said. "Engineering is such a broad area that one of our needs and challenges will be to [...] create a sequence that is well-known and looked for by schools of engineering."
For more on PLTW, click here.
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2013 Summer School information
There are still seats available for the following summer school courses. Please click here for more information or to register.
1st Semester June 13-July 3
American Culture and the Graphic Novel (SO, JR, SR)
Baseball as America (SO, JR, SR)
Biology 161 (SO, JR, SR)
Chemistry 161 (SO, JR, SR)
Language Workshop - ESL (FR, SO, JR, SR)
Physical & Nutritional Fitness (FR, SO, JR, SR)
Reader's Workshop (FR, SO, JR, SR)
Sports in Society (FR, SO, JR, SR)
Study Learning Skills (FR, SO, JR, SR)
Topics in Literature: Shakespeare (SO, JR, SR)
US History 161 (JR, SR)
Vocabulary Workshop (FR, SO, JR, SR)
Vocabulary Building - ESL (FR, SO, JR, SR)
Writer's Workshop (FR, SO, JR, SR)
June 13-July 26 (no school July 4th & 5th)
Driver's Education - Must be 15 by May 1, 2013
Science Projects 163/173 (SO, JR, SR)
2nd Semester July 8-July 26
Baseball as America (SO, JR, SR)
Biology 162 (SO, JR, SR)
Chemistry 162 (SO, JR, SR)
Computer Aided Drafting (FR, SO, JR, SR)
Digital Imaging (FR, SO, JR, SR)
Health 161 (SO, JR)
Physical & Nutritional Fitness (FR, SO, JR, SR)
Reader's Workshop (FR, SO, JR, SR)
Sculpture (FR, SO, JR, SR) Prerequisite: Art Studio for entering GBN 9th graders
Study Learning Skills (FR, SO, JR, SR)
US History 162 (JR, SR)
Vocabulary Workshop (FR, SO, JR, SR)
Writer's Workshop (FR, SO, JR, SR)
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