Thank you to NAMI of McHenry County for organizing this event and to everyone who came out to write letters advocating for the continuation of our mental health funding. We are incredibly grateful to our community for the ongoing support. (fb)

Faces of D47: “I’m from Crystal Lake. I went to West, then North Junior High, and graduated from South High School. After high school, I started driving for SEDOM, the Special Education District of McHenry County. I drove for about eight and a half years, took some time off to raise my kids, went back for a bit, and then transitioned to District 47." "I've been at District 47 for about ten years. I currently work as a permanent sub bus aide. I often support students one-on-one, especially those who need help managing medical conditions or behaviors. I’ve walked similar paths with my own family, so I’m quick to recognize when a student needs extra care or attention." "My goal is to help students feel safe and happy, especially our youngest ones. On their first day, many are tearful or nervous. I reassure them, saying we’re picking up new friends, and when someone finally sits next to them, they light up. It’s little moments like that that make this job so special." "I really enjoy subbing because no two days are the same. I get to build connections with so many kids. Some even ask for me by name: ‘Miss Mary!’ That means a lot." "Over the years, I’ve seen students grow in incredible ways. One student I encouraged to pursue college later told me how much that support meant to her. Another shared that my daily encouragement helped him through a tough chapter and gave him the motivation to keep going." "My own son has been a big inspiration in this work. He was born early and faced many challenges, especially in the early years. I was constantly at school, partnering with teachers and learning alongside him. Now, I get to be that supportive adult for other families. He’s thriving today—mainstreamed into general education, working, driving, and continuing to grow." "During remote learning, we tackled things like cursive together—I didn’t want him glued to a screen all day. Later, at a museum, he read a book in cursive out loud, and another student said, ‘How do you even know how to read that?’ It was such a proud moment." -Mary Laramie, Permanent Substitute Bus Aide, TJA #FacesofD47 (fb)