bensenville hello!
VILLAGE OF BENSENVILLE
BIKE SAFETY WORKSHOP
MUSIC IN THE PARK RETURNS THIS SUMMER
Everyone’s favorite free, family summer concert series returns this June with something to offer for all musical tastes! Beginning June 4 and running through August 13, Music In The Park will be held in Downtown Bensenville on Wednesdays with performances starting at 7:30 pm. We’re also bring back the Classic Car Cruise Nights which will begin at 6 pm.
Come early with your blanket or lawn chair and relax to your favorite songs all summer long! For a complete schedule, please visit the Village website at bensenville.il.us.
SWEET TREATS AT SUNDAES TOO ICE CREAM SHOP
Enjoy a sweet treat at Sundaes Too Ice Cream Shop! Located in Bensenville’s Center Theatre at 9 S. Center Street, Sundaes Too offers a variety of ice cream flavors and frozen treats including a limited selection of gluten-free & non-dairy options. Stop by during Music In The Park this summer!
Monday | May 12
May is National Bike Month—a time to celebrate the many benefits of cycling and inspire more people to give it a try. Whether you're biking for fun, fitness, commuting, or running errands, you're contributing to safer streets, stronger communities, a healthier planet, and a happier you.
Join us for the Bensenville Bike Safety Workshop, featuring a special guest speaker from Ride Illinois! This informative event will cover essential biking skills, safety tips, and rules of the road for riders of all ages. Learn how to stay safe while biking in and around Bensenville, get expert advice from Ride Illinois, and participate in interactive demonstrations. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned cyclist, this workshop is a great opportunity to brush up on safety and connect with fellow community members.
Bensenville Bike Safety Workshop May 12 | 6-7 pm
BENSENVILLE COMMUNITY
PUBLIC LIBRARY
200 S. Church Road | Bensenville
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
Daniel Schulze
12 SOUTH CENTER
The Village is currently hiring for a variety of positions in multiple departments. To view current openings please visit the Village website and select the Employment Opportunities icon located on the home page, or type bensenville.il.us/jobs.
ST | LOWER LEVEL | Monday – Friday | 9 am – 1 pm
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. Fun, new events added each month! Join the Forever Young Club –call 630.350.3426 to register for events & mark your calendars!
COP ON A ROOFTOP
FRIDAY, MAY 16 | 5 AM – NOON Dunkin' | 1004 W. Irving Park Rd.
Special Olympics Illinois’ annual community event featuring Bensenville Police Department officers up on the roof at Dunkin’ Donuts. Stop by Dunkin’ for your daily coffee, make a donation to Special Olympics, and take a selfie with Bensenville’s police officers behind you on the rooftop!
bensenville.il.us
Addison ElectronicsTownshipRecycling
Addison Township offers a variety of recycling opportunities throughout the year that are available to Bensenville residents. Their recycling program includes electronics, textiles, cardboard, books, and paper.
Note that all acceptable items are free of charge, excluding CRT, flat screens, projection TVs, and monitors.
VILLAGE BRUSH AND BRANCH PICK-UP
Do Not Bundle Brush or Branches
2025 DATES: April 7, May 5, June 2, July 7, August 4, September 2, October 6, November 3
REPUBLIC SERVICES collects April through November: individual branches less than three feet in length and one inch in diameter on your regular trash collection day from your regular collection point. Place in biodegradable paper bags or garbage cans with two Yard Waste Only labels attached. Yard Waste Only stickers can be picked up for free at the Village Hall. Republic Services collects these branches with other residential yard waste.
To discard root balls, break them up into small enough pieces to fit into your trash container for Republic Services to collect.
VILLAGE CREWS collect larger brush on the first full week of each month from April through November with the following regulations.
• Brush may be placed on the parkway for collection beginning the Friday before the scheduled collection week, but no later than 7:00 am on the first Monday of each month.
• Each street receives a single collection during a scheduled week; placing brush or branches out after the deadline can result in a citation and no pickup.
• Brush piles should be placed on the street side of the property NOT in the alleys.
• Place cut ends of brush and branches towards the street without root systems.
• Individual branches must not exceed eight inches (8”) in diameter.
• Items larger than eight inches (8”) in diameter, materials such as construction wood, branches with nails or spikes, wooden fence pieces, rose branches, poison ivy and grass clippings/rakings are not collected during brush pick-up and must be disposed of by the resident through other means.
• Brush collection is for single-family residences only.
• Contractor-generated brush will NOT be collected.
• NO bundling of piles with rope or wire.
• Branches smaller than three feet (3’) in length and one inch (1”) in diameter should be placed in biodegradable bags or cans labeled “yard waste only” for pickup by Republic Services.
Under 21” = $25/unit 21” and over = $35/unit
Accepted items include computers, laptops, servers, computer monitors, televisions, printers, fax machines, scanners, VCR & DVD players, video game consoles, cable & converter boxes, satellite receivers, electronic keyboards, mice, adapters, power supplies, cell phones, modems, and tablets.
LOCATION
Addison Township Highway Dept. 411 W. Potter Street | Wood Dale | IL 60191
2025 DROP-OFF DATES May 3 | August 2 | November 22
TIME | 8 am – 12 pm
For additional details, please visit addisontownship.com/recycling-program or call 630.766.2228.
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
Monday, May 26 | Memorial 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
Container Gardening with Master Gardener Pat Kosmach
WEDNESDAY, MAY 14 | 7:00-8:00PM | ADULTS
Participants will discover how to choose, plant, and care for container gardens to keep them looking beautiful throughout the season. The program includes recipes for stunning container displays. Master Gardener Pat Kosmach will create a container planting live, and attendees will have a chance to win the finished project in a drawing!
Trivia Night at 37 Bar & Grill in White Pines Golf Club
MONDAY, MAY 5 AND MONDAY, JUNE 2 | 6:30-8:00PM | ALL AGES
Gather your friends and family to compete against other teams by answering questions about current events, music, sports, and more. Follow Bensenville Library on Facebook, Instagram, or X for a free answer on Trivia Nights. Walk-ins are welcome, but we recommend calling 37 Bar & Grill to reserve a table at 630.766.0304.
Virtual Reality Drop-In
THURSDAY, MAY 29 | 6:30-7:30PM | ALL AGES
Did you know you can experience virtual reality right here at the library? This incredible technology immerses you in a virtual world filled with images, sound, and interactive elements. Drop in for a hands-on session where the whole family can explore and enjoy the fun! Headsets and all necessary equipment will be provided, and an instructor will guide you through the experience.
Geneology
A Guide to Overseas Genealogy with Jacquie Schattner
MONDAY, MAY 5 | 1:00-2:00PM | ADULTS | VIRTUAL
Tracing your ancestors across the ocean is easier than you think! This session covers five key areas of overseas genealogy: emigration, voyages, immigration, naturalization, and top genealogy websites. You’ll also receive a curated list of books and over 70 websites for research in both the U.S. and Europe. Registration for this virtual event is required at benlib.org/events.
Genealogy 101: FamilySearch Sleuthing
MONDAY, MAY 19 | 1:00-2:00PM | ADULTS | VIRTUAL
FamilySearch.org offers free access to billions of records, including census, birth, and immigration documents, plus tools for building family trees and collaborating with others. We’ll explore the basics and discover its under-utilized features, perfect for both beginners and experienced researchers. Registration for this virtual event is required at benlib.org/events.
The Gift of Memory: Passing Down Your Personal History
MONDAY, JUNE 2 | 10:00-11:30AM | ADULTS
Join Elizabeth for a morning refreshment and a presentation on the importance of recording personal life stories for future generations. She will share excerpts from two personal histories, illustrating how even ordinary lives can be fascinating and meaningful. By preserving our stories, we offer future generations a deeper understanding of our values, personalities, and resilience.
“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
Art for Relaxation: A Coloring Program
WEDNESDAY, MAY 7 | 7:00-8:30PM | ADULTS
Experience relaxing creativity sessions enhanced by art and music. Participants can explore a selection of printed seasonal subjects while expressing their artistic flair. You’re welcome to bring your own art supplies or use the colored pencils and markers provided. Supplies are limited to 15 attendees.
Mother’s Day Card Making
THURSDAY, MAY 8 | 7:00-8:00PM | ADULTS ONLY
Celebrate Mother’s Day with a card-making program led by Moira Shultz. Create a heartfelt, personalized card for Mom. Registration is not required, but space is limited.
Birds and Blossoms: Chinese Watercolor Motifs and Appreciation
THURSDAY, JUNE 12 | 7:00-8:00PM | ADULTS
Educator Yvonne Wolf will lead a session on the art motif of birds and blossoms, highlighting their presence in Chinese culture. Attendees will explore the symbolism of peony flowers, plum blossoms, and birds, which often represent prosperity and fulfillment. The session will also cover the concept of yin and yang pairs and provide a cross-cultural perspective on these motifs.
Versiti Blood Drive: Save Lives with Us–
Share The Red
TUESDAY, JUNE 24 | 12:30-5:00PM | ADULTS, 16 & 17 WITH PARENTAL CONSENT
Join us at the Library for a blood drive hosted by Versiti Blood Center of Illinois. Donating blood is a quick and impactful way to support your community. Walkins are welcome, but it’s best to reserve an appointment at tinyurl.com/BloodDrive-6-24-25. Remember to bring a photo ID, and expect your appointment to last 45-60 minutes.
Mississippi River Adventures with John Kokoris
THURSDAY, JUNE 26 | 7:00-8:00PM | ADULTS
Illinois traveler John Kokoris will share insider tips to help you explore the Upper Mississippi from Galena to St. Louis. Learn where to go, what to do—and all about the mighty river’s storied past. We’ll discuss architecture, food, events, and more. Your Great River Road trip starts here!
Plant + Book Sale
SATURDAY, MAY 17, 2025 | 9:00AM - 1:00PM
Book and plant lovers, it’s time for our annual sale! Discover a handpicked selection of flowers, veggies, and houseplants, plus a huge collection of books, movies, puzzles, and games for all ages. Don’t miss out –everyone’s welcome!
Flour ishing
MEETS ON THE 2ND TUESDAYS OF THE MONTH | 7:00-8:30PM | ALL AGES
Join fellow gardening enthusiasts for a friendly gathering where we share tips, exchange ideas, and support each other in growing beautiful, thriving gardens. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this group is all about learning from one another, solving gardening challenges, and making new friends. Come celebrate the joys of nature together.
TUESDAY, JUNE 10 | 7:00 PM -8:30 PM
TUESDAY, JULY 8 | 7:00-8:30 PM
TUESDAY, AUGUST 12 | 7:00-8:30 PM
Summer Reading
Kick-Off: Family Game Night
FRIDAY, JUNE 6
5:00-7:00PM ALL AGES
Level Up your summer with a family game night! Register for summer reading and enjoy free Kona Ice while playing life-size versions of favorite games like Jenga and Connect Four.
Summer Reading: Level Up at Your Library!
JUNE 1 THRU JULY 31 | AGES 0-18
Hi! I’m Gordon the Tapir, and I’m here to tell you all about this summer’s super fun reading game! Everyone is invited to play, no library card necessary!
The game begins June 1 and runs through July 31. Young people ages 0-18 can sign up at the Youth Services Desk, or through ReaderZone using this Code: a8a5b. Track your hours on a print log that you pick up at Youth Services, or using the ReaderZone app. You’ll receive a set of Dragon cards just for registering, and can earn additional cards for each row on your log (one hour of reading) that you track this summer. Read for 8 hours to collect all 8 sets of cards.
Read whatever and however you like – comics, fanfiction, ebooks, magazines – any kind of reading that you do counts! Being read to, listening to audiobooks, attending a storytime, and following along with a book all count, as well.
Check in at the Youth Services Desk every time you complete a row on your log to collect a set of dragon cards. You’ll also earn prizes including free Portillo’s cake, free Lou Malnati’s pizza, and free Raising Cane’s chicken fingers (while supplies last).
During your visit to the library, challenge friends to a Dragon card game – challenge library staff if you’re feeling bold! You can also join me for a game of Hide and Seek. Find where I am hiding in the library to earn a bonus prize.
Finishing all 8 hours of reading by July 31 will earn you a ticket for the grand prize drawing, a book of your choice, and a super cool shirt featuring me – Gordon!
Are you ready to level up at the library?
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
Leonel Figueroa
Reid Goodrich
Sylvia Hayde**
Kent Kovac**
Cary Lewis
John Radzinski
Juliet Rago**
Stars indicate leaving office on April 23.
Incoming School Board members include:
Rachel Matug
Chris McCullough
Michael Miller
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
@FentonHS
FENTON COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL
Dear Fenton School Community,
I’m excited to celebrate several staff achievements that reaffirms our belief that Fenton has and will continue to be a special place because of our valued educators.
Congressional Commendation
Ms. Laura Avila-Peterson teaches social studies for English Language Learners and in January she was given a Congressional Commendation by Congresswoman Delia Ramirez.
While speaking on the floor of the United States House of Representatives, Congresswoman Ramirez praised Ms. Avila-Peterson for her dedication to English Language Learners and how she tailors her teaching to each student’s individual needs.
This passion was squarely on display when Ms. Avila-Peterson hosted Congresswoman Ramirez on November 22 for a 30-minute Q&A that covered a variety of topics the students were learning about in class. The event was extremely well organized, complete with students asking great questions they prepared and rehearsed in the days ahead.
Thank you, Ms. Avila-Peterson, for sharing your passion for education with our school and our community. Her achievements, which are our children’s achievements, are now part of our country’s permanent record, living forever in the Halls of Congress.
Golden Apple Finalists
Congratulations to our very own Dr. Kelly Torres and Mr. Luis Garcia, who were named as finalists for the 2025 Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching! Dr. Torres is a social studies teacher and Mr. Garcia is a business education teacher. These are two outstanding educators and we’re very excited for them to be recognized in such a big way. Only 30 finalists were selected from 470 nominations throughout Illinois. Of the 30 finalists, just 10 are from the suburbs. The Golden Apple Foundation recognizes exemplary educators, supports young teachers through mentorship programs, and works to recruit future teachers through a scholars program that’s open to high school and college students.
The Big 300
Congratulations are also in order for Boys Basketball Coach Chaz Taft. In February he earned his 300th career victory! That is a major milestone in the high school basketball coaching community. Please congratulate Mr. Taft when you get a chance, as he clearly demonstrated that he is an incredible coach over his career.
Fastpitch Coach of the Year
In February, just before the new season began, Softball Coach Dave Mello was named 2024 Coach of the Year for Class 3A Sectional #4 by the Illinois Softball Coaches Association. Coach Mello’s recognition covered his long dedication to softball, including Fenton's two Conference Championships and four Regional Championships. It's great to see that Coach Mello has received the recognition he deserves for the passion he brings to coaching. Please join us in congratulating him as well. Fenton is truly a place where we can achieve anything. We value our staff as well as the students and parents who partner with us to set and achieve goals.
Let’s Go BISON!
SAM BENTSEN, ED.D. | Interim Superintendent
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.
2025 – 2026 Approved School Calendar
Fenton’s approved school calendar for the 2025-2026 school year can be found on the calendar page of our website. As previously communicated, Fenton will start school later as a precaution relating to our STEM Wing construction project.
All construction is still on schedule to be completed by the first week of August. We don’t anticipate any major changes, rather the extra time would be applied to our move-in plans with the many small equipment installations and our teachers setting up their learning environments. We want classes to operate normally as soon as students arrive.
The first day of school is August 25. We made up some of those days in the middle of the year, for example not needing two days off for elections, but we will still end a little later. Graduation is scheduled for May 21 and Final Exams for all other students are May 28, May 29, and June 1.
Of course, Fenton’s annual registration is always in July.
FENTON LEADERSHIP UPDATE
Fenton welcomes some new and familiar faces into the Leadership Team for the upcoming 2025 – 2026 school year. These appointments include:
DR. SAM BENTSEN | SUPERINTENDENT
Dr. Bentsen joined Fenton in 2018 and most recently served as principal for three years before assuming the role of Interim Superintendent for the current school year. The role of Superintendent is just for the 2025 – 2026 school year, lining up with Dr. Bentsen’s previous decision to retire in June 2026. He will assist the Board of Education, at their discretion, with their external superintendent search and then support the selected candidate in a smooth transition leading up to July 1, 2026.
MS. KATE WARD
ASSOCIATE SUPERINTENDENT/PRINCIPAL
Ms. Ward joined Fenton in 2002 as a social studies teacher and later became the Division Leader for English and Social Studies, then Director of Learning, and serves as Interim Associate Superintendent/Principal for the current school year.
DR. DOUGLAS J. WILDES
CHIEF SCHOOL BUSINESS OFFICIAL
Dr. Wildes will join Fenton on July 1 after serving several roles at Elmwood Park Community Unit School District 401 since 2017 – notably as their CSBO and as Principal of Elmwood Park High School.
MS. STEPHANIE JACKSON
DIRECTOR OF LEARNING AND DIVISION LEADER FOR ENGLISH AND SOCIAL STUDIES
Ms. Jackson joined Fenton in 2006 as an English teacher and assumed the Interim Director of Learning and Division Leader for English and Social Studies for this current year.
CLASS OF 2025 IMPORTANT DATES
The end of the 2024-2025 school year is upon us and Fenton is gearing up to celebrate the Class of 2025. Here’s a rundown of all the exciting events:
May 1 – Decision Day, with celebrations during all lunch periods
May 14 – Senior Sundaes, a sundae ice cream bar during all lunch periods
May 16 – Prom
May 19 – Senior Awards, 6:30 pm in the Auditorium
May 20 – Senior Brunch, 10 am to 1 pm at White Pines Golf Club
May 21 – Graduation Practice, 8:30 to 10:30 am in the Fieldhouse
May 22 – Graduation, 7 pm in the Fieldhouse
Fenton’s May 22 Commencement Ceremony is a weekday, so please plan accordingly. All seniors get four tickets, with overflow seating in our auditorium to watch the livestream.
well done state champions!
ANOTHER SPEECH STATE CHAMPION!
Congratulations to senior Tereza Belej for winning 1st place and the individual Speech State Championship for Informative Speaking at the IHSA Speech State Finals in February. Congratulations are also in store for junior Arturo Hurtado Jr., who took 4th place in State for Special Occasion Speaking and brought home a medal as well!
Tereza’s victory is Fenton’s 8th championship in the last 7 years. We are very proud of our speech program and the countless hours of hard work our students dedicate to their craft under the guidance of coaches Nicole Hendricks and Melissa Feinberg.
Once more, congratulations to the Performance in the Round (PIR) cast for If Anything Happens, I Love You for also advancing to the State Finals.
FENTON GROUP INTERPRETATION WINS 3RD IN STATE!
Congratulations to Fenton's Group Interpretation cast of Ride the Cyclone for taking 3rd Place at the IHSA State Finals in March. This was Fenton’s best finish in this event since 1979. The cast also won the Sectional Championship one week prior.
CONTEST PLAY WINS STATE CHAMPIONSHIP FOR DRAMA TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE
Congratulations to Fenton’s stage crew on the Contest Play production The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane"for winning the 2025 IHSA State Championship for Drama Technical Performance.
The crew builds and manages the sets and props used in the performance, as well as manages the audio, visual, and lighting. Their actions are timed and measured just as rigorously as the performers on stage.
Fenton qualified for the State Finals when the cast and crew performances combined won the Sectional Championship.
Fenton previously won State Championships for Drama Technical Performance in 2023 for the production of Sylvia and in 2015 for the production of The Pearl by John Steinbeck.
BENSENVILLE PARK DISTRICT
Welcome Summer!
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
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
Summer is just around the corner, and the Bensenville Park District is ready to help patrons get out and play! Whether hitting the greens at White Pines Golf Club, cooling off at the Water Park & Splash Pad, or joining one of the park district’s many camps, fitness activities or special events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this season. Consult the Summer Program Guide to plan summer activities! Summer registration for most programs begins May 13.
GET OUT AND PLAY!
The Bensenville Park District is continuing to bring more activities and programs to neighborhood parks! These parks serve a wide range of recreation needs based on the surrounding neighborhood, with many activities and amenities to keep visitors of all ages active and engaged for an entire day. Activities include Jim Geils Family Golf Nights, movies in the park, Fitness Dayz, the Live at White Pines concert series and the Railroad Museum, with weekend hours noon to 4 p.m. each Saturday and Sunday in addition to 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. each Tuesday.
The Movies in the Park series kicks off May 17 with the White Pines Drive-In Movie presentation of The Mighty Ducks Watch from a golf cart at the driving range ($10 cart fee for two adults). Refreshments will be available for sale. Register in advance at the DGLC. Then watch Inside Out 2 June 7 at Arbor Park. Both movies begin at dusk.
The park district’s Fitness Dayz begin at 9 a.m. Saturday, May 31, at Breiter-Palm Park with the free Summer Fitness Circuit designed to boost strength, endurance and overall fitness. Then join for Outdoor Aerobics at 9 a.m. Saturday, June 14, at Rose Park. The free high-energy outdoor aerobics class invites participants to move, sweat and enjoy a dynamic workout that combines rhythmic movements, cardio exercises and strength training.
Be sure to check out the wide variety of activities coming to neighborhood parks at BvilleParks.org/park-n-play and look out for the grand re-opening of Sunrise Park this summer!
LOVE A PARADE? MARCH WITH THE PARK DISTRICT!
Help honor the nation’s heroes by joining the Bensenville Park District in marching in Wood Dale’s Memorial Day Parade on Monday, May 26! Sign up at BvilleParks.org/MemorialDay and receive a free t-shirt sponsored by the UPS Store. The park district is also participating in the July 4 Bensenville LibertyFest Parade and invites in-district park patrons to march with them! More information may be found at BvilleParks.org/LibertyFest.
THANK YOU, VETERANS!
Veterans can enjoy a free golf outing and luncheon at White Pines from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on June 30. Book a tee time at the Pro Shop (630.766.0304). Veterans will also be treated to a free day at the Bensenville Water Park & Splash Pad from noon to 5 p.m. on July 4. Then, join the Veterans Bootcamp & Brunch. Complete strength, balance, core, speed and agility circuits as well as resistance training from 9-10 a.m. Aug. 16 at Sunrise Park, followed by a potluck meal at the shelter from 10 a.m. to noon.
WOOD STREET FITNESS
Spice up group fitness workouts during Wood Street Fitness’ free Fitness de Mayo celebration Monday, May 5 The fitness center will be offering its regularly-scheduled Monday classes with a fun, Mexican theme, props for photos and an additional free fun fiesta with food provided by Los Buenos Diaz Mexican Grill. Pre-registration is required.
SUMMER CAMPS
The Bensenville Park District’s summer camps provide hours of safe, supervised fun and promote development, teamwork, and socialization. Camps adhere to all IDPH and CDC guidelines while the kids have a blast. During each exciting day, campers will participate in a wide variety of engaging games, projects, crafts, and of course, daily swim time at the water park. There’s even before- and after- camp programs! For details on the many different camps available, visit BvilleParks.org/ Camps.
Register by Friday, May 9, and save $10 off each full 10-day session reserved for Fischer Farm Camp (ages 6-10), Adventure Camp (ages 6-10), Sports Camp (ages 6-10) and Teen Camp (ages 11-15). You may also take advantage of the discount for registering multiple children during this time.
New in 2025 are two new farm camp experiences. Busy Bees Farm Camp, running July 14-18, offers ages 3-5 a chance to get outside and enjoy farm-themed activities especially made for preschoolers at the Pine Room and Pines Park. Farm Explorers Camp, July 21-25, offers those aged 11-15 a great opportunity to learn about farms, the environment, agriculture and animals through a series of day-long field trips.
Tot Camp offers a caring and gentle introduction to the camp experience for two-year-olds with a new and exciting theme presented each week from 9 to 11:15 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Sunshine Camp (ages 3-5) is designed to foster children’s growth and independence through exploration, gardening, sports, camp songs and playground time in addition to visits to the splash pad. The camps run from 9 a.m. to noon on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays or Tuesdays and Thursdays. Sunset Camps (ages 3-5) run noon to 3 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays or Tuesdays and Thursdays as campers engage in their world through crafts, stories, songs, indoor and outdoor games and play time.
WHITE PINES GOLF CLUB
White Pines will offer patrons the opportunity to test and purchase the latest in golf technology from Callaway and TaylorMade during the club’s fitting days. Expert club fitters, along with professionals from White Pines, will help customers optimize their swings using a data-driven approach. Visit WhitePinesGolf.com/fitting for more information.
Children ages 4-8 are invited to learn golf in a fun, exciting way at Little Links, 3-4 p.m. Sundays, May 4-25. Call the Pro Shop at 630.766.0304 to register.
Don’t forget! Females golf free on Mother’s Day, May 11, with the club’s Mother’s Day special. Tee times are required. Restrictions apply. Book tee times at WhitePinesGolf.com.
Jim Geils Family Golf Nights—named for former commissioner Jim Geils—will take place beginning at 4:30 p.m. the third Sunday of each month: May 18, June 15, July 20 and August 17. Fees are just $5 for juniors and $10 for adults. The cart fees are $10 per cart and $10 to ride along without playing. Tees will be moved up for each of the family nights, and players can play at their own pace.
Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere featuring a classic car showcase, friendly cornhole competition and refreshing cocktails at Cars, Cornhole and Cocktails beginning at 4 p.m. Saturday, June 21, at the Pavilion at White Pines. At 6 p.m., enjoy meal service followed by the first Live at White Pines concert of the summer. More information will be provided closer to the date at WhitePinesGolf.com.
FISCHER FARM SUMMER PROGRAMS
Learn about Fischer Farm with a FREE farm scavenger hunt! Pick up the playing cards and markers at the farm gift shop, beginning June 1. Once every item has been found, return the playing card to the farm gift shop desk for a FREE PRIZE.
Love tie-dye? So does Fischer Farm! Learn how natural materials, like the fruits and vegetables grown on the farm, can be used to make dyes used to color t-shirts in the Colors of Nature Tie Dye Experiment June 14. Visit the farm and get a lucky metal horseshoe in Design a Horseshoe on June 28. Learn a little about these lucky symbols while decorating the horseshoe to take home and display.
WATER PARK & SPLASH PAD
Stay cool at the pool! With a 155-foot water slide, two drop slides, a diving board, a 2,527 square-foot Splash Pad, sun deck, and a full-service concession stand, the Bensenville Water Park & Splash Pad is your home for summer fun! The season opens Memorial Day.
The Water Park & Splash Pad has two great ways to save on admission! Pick up season passes today at the Deer Grove Leisure Center for unlimited admission to the park, free admission to aqua fitness classes, discount admission to water park events and three free guest passes! Don’t want a season pass? In-district patrons can pick up a Bville Bundle, which consists of a 10-pack of daily admissions for just $99.
Numerous opportunities are available to learn to swim or improve swimming skills. Consult the Summer Program Guide or the BvilleParks.org website for more information.
BENSENVILLE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DISTRICT 2
210 South Church Road
Bensenville | Illinois 60106
bsd2.org | 630 766 5940
Board of Education
Jacqueline Dye
Victoria Gonzalez
Bob Laudadio
Milton Mercado Jr.
Anita Miller
Maria Cristina Reyes
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
SCHOOL DISTRICT 2
CONGRATS ... AND BEST WISHES!
District 2 welcomes two new members to its Board, and thanks two departing members for their service.
welcome and thanks!
Voters sent two newcomers and one incumbent to the Bensenville School District 2 Board of Education during the April 1 election. Maria Cristina Reyes and Milton Mercado Jr. will join the Bensenville School District 2 Board of Education, serving four-year terms alongside re-elected incumbent Bob Laudadio
The newly elected Board members were to be seated during a special reorganizational meeting on April 23. During the reorganizational meeting, the Board was also slated to vote to appoint new officers, and to thank departing members Marisol Leyva and Lori Parthimos, both of whom chose not to seek re-election.
A WELL-DESERVED HONOR
IASB recognizes BSD2 Board President’s leadership
The Illinois Association of School Boards recently recognized Bob Laudadio, President of the BSD2 Board of Education, with its Established Board Leader designation. Bob was re-elected to the BSD2 Board of Education in April. He was first elected to the Board in 2011, and has served eight years as its president.
The Established Board Leader designation is an acknowledgement of the time and effort Bob has devoted to learning and leadership activities provided by the Association, and for his service to the public education community.
POP-UP CLOTHING DRIVE
BSD2 community donates clothing and household items to families in need
Sixty-nine BSD2 families in need received more than 1,367 free clothing items and household goods on Saturday, March 1, at Tioga School during a distribution of donations collected from District 2 staff and community members.
The pop-up clothing drive was the third of its kind conducted in the past year in Bensenville by the People's Resource Center in partnership with District 2 and Community Friends.
In the days leading up to the distribution, the District 2 community rallied to gather clothing and household donations for the clothing pop-up. District 2 also provided many volunteers to support the event, as did Community Friends and Bensenville Community Public Library. HAWKS and Student Council members from Blackhawk Middle School also volunteered the night before the distribution to sort donations in preparation for the event, and students from Fenton High School volunteered for both set-up and distribution duties.
Additionally, Garry Vaccarro from Warm Coats for Cool Kids - the sponsor of Community Friends' annual coat drive for BSD2 families - not only volunteered, but also provided new spring and fall jackets for distribution.
"There is nothing better than the love and support in District 2!" said Dr. Katie McCluskey, BSD2 Superintendent of Schools.
"Thank you to everyone that came to volunteer at our pop-up clothing drive! It was a huge success!"
#THANKATEACHER
May 5-9 is National
Teacher Appreciation Week
This is a time when school districts across the country extend a well-deserved thank you to those whose lives are dedicated to teaching the children in their communities.
In recognition of this occasion, please join us in expressing our deepest gratitude and sincerest appreciation to not only our outstanding teachers, but to all of our staff members.
• Thank you teachers and instructional assistants for the lasting contributions you made to your students’ future each and every day.
• Thank you principals and administrators for your leadership and commitment to working with our staff, students, and parents to promote and improve teaching and learning.
• Thank you secretaries and clerical assistants for serving as the faces of our schools and the hubs of information and communication in our offices.
• Thank you nurses, therapists, psychologists, and social workers for promoting health and wellness throughout our schools and community.
• Thank you bus drivers for safely transporting our students to and from school.
• Thank you food service staff for providing nutritious and delicious meals.
• Thank you custodians and maintenance workers for your diligent work to provide our students and staff a safe and clean environment for teaching and learning.
• Thank you tech staff for equipping our students, teachers and staff with the tools they need to succeed.
Thank you EVERYONE for providing your specialized expertise to the District. Each of you plays a vitally important role in our ongoing effort to learn and grow together. May each of you have a fulfilling and refreshing summer—one that prepares you for what promises to be a wonderful 2025-2026 school year.
HEALTHY START
Students’ health exams and immunizations must be up-to-date to attend the first day of school
Under the District’s new first-day exclusion policy, students whose health exam and immunization records are NOT up-to-date and on file at their schools will NOT be allowed to start the new school year on August 20.
Under Policy 7:100, physical examinations and immunizations are required for all students at different intervals. Because these requirements are state law, students must be excluded from school if they are not in compliance.
Parents/guardians are notified several times during the spring and summer about these important health requirements that prevent disease, allowing students to remain healthy, in school, and ready to learn!
Visit bsd2.org/healthexams for a grade-by-grade list
of required examinations and immunizations. If you are unsure which health exam, immunization, vision and/or dental forms are required for your child, please contact your school nurse.
Together, we can help all children grow and thrive this school year!
FUTURE CHEFS
Eight elementary students show off their culinary skills in the District’s second-annual cooking challenge
Congratulations to W. A. Johnson School fifth grader Ava Alanis! Ava won first place in Bensenville School District 2's second-annual "Future Chef National Challenge” sponsored by Sodexo, the District's food services provider. Eight students competed for the title the morning of Saturday, March 22, during a live cook-off in the kitchen and cafeteria at Blackhawk Middle School.
Assisted by Sodexo staff, each student prepared their favorite recipe from home and submitted it for critique by four celebrity judges.The students' delicious creations included:
Cilantro Lime Mango Blaze Chicken Polish Meat Patties Frida Wrap
The Mama Special Grilled Chicken Breast with Salad Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Green Chilaquiles with Eggs Potato Soup
However, Ava Alanis, with her recipe for Cilantro Lime Mango Blaze Chicken, ranked highest with the judges and earned the competition's grand prize package, a variety of cookware she can use to continue pursuing her passion for the culinary arts at home.
SUMMER NUTRITION
Get free breakfasts at Tioga
Bensenville School District 2 will serve FREE breakfast to anyone 18 years and younger throughout the month of June.
LOCATION: Tioga School, 212 W. Memorial Road
DATES: Monday-Thursday, June 9-26 (Breakfast will not be served on Thursday, June 19.)
TIME: 8:05-8:25 am
Meals must be consumed on site.
sunday monday tuesday wednesday thursday friday saturday
Callaway Fitting Day, 11am-3pm, White Pines Golf Club FHS AP Art Show, 7pm Senior Luncheon, 10am-12:30pm, Heritage Center (Village Hall) BSD2 Developmental Screenings (By Appointment/No Pre-Kindergarten Attendance) BSD2 Third-Trimester Midterm
FRIDAY, MAY 16 | 5 AM –NOON Dunkin’ | 1004 W. Irving Park Rd. Special Olympics Illinois’ annual community event featuring Bensenville Police Department. Details on page 2!
COP ON A ROOFTOP!
BCPL Plant and Book Sale, 9am-1pm BPD Drive-In Movie: The Mighty Ducks , Dusk, White Pines Golf Club
Mothers’ Day Tea Party, 11am, Heritage Center Feature Friday | 1pm, Center Theatre BSD2 Birth to 3 Early Literacy Group, 9:30-11am, Bensenville Community Public Library
BSD2 Tioga Arbor Day Celebration, 9:30am, Tioga BSD2 Johnson Arbor Day Celebration, 2pm, Johnson Radio Days, 11am, Heritage Center (Village Hall) Spring Band Concert, 7pm BSD2 BMS Chorus Concert, 6:30pm, Blackhawk FHS INCubator Pitch Night, 6:30pm
BCPL Trivia Night at 37 Bar & Grill in White Pines Golf Club, 6:30-8pm BPD Fitness de Mayo Fiesta, Noon-2:30pm, DGLC Musical Monday, 1pm, Center Theatre FHS Spring Choir Concert, 7pm DIY Craft Project, 11am, Heritage Center (Village Hall) CDC Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall
FHS 12:08 Early Dismissal FHS Prom, 6pm Cop on a Rooftop, 5am-12pm, Dunkin’, 1004 W Irving Park Rd BSD2 Developmental Screenings (By Appointment/No Pre-Kindergarten Attendance)
Textile Thursday, 11am, Heritage Center (Village Hall) FHS Padres Unidos Meeting, 6:45pm
Technology Tuesday 9am-12pm, Heritage Center (Village Hall) Committee of the Whole Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall FHS Music Department Awards Night, 7pm
BPD TaylorMade Fitting Day, 2-6pm, White Pines Golf Club
BPD Mother’s Day Golf, All day, White Pines Golf Club
Mail Monday, 10am, Heritage Center (Village Hall) FHS Senior Awards Night, 6:30pm
BPD Jim Geils Family Golf Night, 4:30pm-Dusk, White Pines Golf Club FHS Senior Brunch, 10am Movie Club, 11am, Heritage Center (Village Hall) Village Board Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall FHS Final Exam Day 1 FHS Graduation Practice, 8:30am BSD2 Board of Education meeting, 6:30pm, EAC FHS Final Exam Day 2 FHS Graduation Public Works Open House, 3:30-7pm, Bensenville Public Works Facility FHS Final Exam Day 3
Create-a-Burger Party, 11am, Heritage Center (Village Hall)
BPD Fitness Dayz Summer Fitness Circuit, 9-10am, Breiter-Palm Park Western Wednesday, 1pm, Center Theatre FHS Board of Education Meeting, 7pm BSD2 Birth to 3 Parent Education Group, 9:30-11am, Bensenville Community Public Library Village Offices Closed in observance of Memorial Day BSD2 Memorial Day, No School BPD Wood Dale Memorial Day Parade, 10am-12:30pm, Wood Dale Book Club, 11am, Heritage Center (Village Hall)
june 2025
bensenville
thursday friday saturday
BPD Movie in the Park Inside Out 2 , Dusk, Arbor Park
BCPL Summer Reading Kick-Off: Family Game Night, 5-7pm Senior Luncheon, 10am-12:30pm, Heritage Center (Village Hall) Annual Ice Show, 7pm, The Edge Ice Arena
wednesday
sunday monday tuesday
Carrier Route Presort Postal Customer
Reading Begins
BCPL Summer
BCPL Trivia Night at 37 Bar & Grill in White Pines Golf Club, 6:30-8pm Musical Monday, 1pm, Center Theatre DIY Craft Project, 11am, Heritage Center (Village Hall) CDC Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall BSD2 BMS Eighth Grade Promotion, 7pm, Fenton High School Candy Craver’s Party, 11am, Heritage Center (Village Hall) Music In The Park –Rocks Off, 7:30pm, Downtown Bensenville BSD2 Last Day of School for the 2024-2025 School Year BSD2 End of Third Trimester
Music In The Park –Heart to Heartbreaker, 7:30pm, Downtown Bensenville Radio Days, 11am, Heritage Center (Village Hall) BSD2 Third Trimester Report Cards mailed to students’ homes
Technology Tuesday, 9am-12pm, Heritage Center (Village Hall)
BSD2 Summer School begins, 8-11:30am, Monday-Thursday through June 26, Tioga
BPD TaylorMade Fitting Day, Noon-4pm, White Pines Golf Club BPD Cars, Cornhole & Cocktails, 4pm, White Pines Golf Club BPD Live at White Pines, 6-10pm, White Pines Golf Club
BPD Callaway Fitting Day, Noon-5pm, White Pines Golf Club
Fathers’ Day BBQ, 10am, Heritage Center (Village Hall) Feature Friday, 1pm, Center Theatre BPD Fitness Dayz Outdoor Aerobics, 9-10am, Rose Park Mail Monday, 10am, Heritage Center (Village Hall)
Music In The Park –Simply Elton, 7:30pm, Downtown Bensenville BSD2 Board of Education meeting, 6:30pm, EAC Village Offices Closed in observance of Juneteenth BSD2 Juneteenth National Freedom Day (BSD2 Schools and Offices Closed)
BPD Jim Geils Family Golf Night, 4:30pm-Dusk, White Pines Golf Club Movie Club, 11am, Heritage Center (Village Hall)
See Page 6 for details on the summer reading program at the library!
Forever Young Club Summer Camp, 9am-1pm, Heritage Center, through June 27 Book Club, 11am, Heritage Center (Village Hall) Village Board Meeting, 6:30pm, Village Hall Western Wednesday, 1pm, Center Theatre Music In The Park –Arra, 7:30pm, Downtown Bensenville FHS Board of Education Meeting, 7pm
BPD Veterans Golf Outing, 9am-2pm, White Pines Golf Club