Homeschooling is on the rise and some school administrators are very concerned that they’re losing tax resources with declining enrollment numbers.
Representative Terra Costa Howard (D-Lombard) is targeting homeschooling families with HB 2827, claiming that she wants to protect children from parents “who don’t do it the right way...”
During a committee hearing last week, she argued that government officials “have a duty to ensure that children actually receive an education and that they don’t fall through the cracks of our system.”
Yet, according to the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE), less than 32 percent of high school seniors can read and less than 27 percent are proficient in Math.
ISBE reports an 88 percent graduation rate, which means that more than 228,000 students are being left behind.
Where is the concern about these students who are “falling through the cracks?”
Furthermore, students’ physical wellbeing is at risk. A 2018 Chicago Tribune investigation revealed over 500 cases of sexual abuse and rape by Chicago Public School staff against students over a decade, exposing grave deficiencies in hiring, training, reporting, and oversight.
This led to the creation of the Sexual Allegations Unit (SAU), which has reported 446 complaints of sexual misconduct in 2023, and 469 new complaints of adult-on-student abuse in 2024.
We know that these serious problems are not limited to Chicago schools. Public school systems across the state are failing in their responsibilities of educating and protecting children in their care.
Representative Howard doesn’t seem to understand that bureaucrats have proven themselves to be disqualified from doing the job that she thinks they can do.
Moreover: why diminish educational freedom in Illinois? Why usurp parental rights just to expand failing government authority over more students? Why try to fix something that doesn’t need fixing?
HB 2827 would punish families who do not file a declaration form with up to 30 days in prison and a $500 fine. This is alarming. Why would she separate families over a missing document?
This bill is unwarranted. Decades of homeschooling success demonstrates beyond a shadow of a doubt that HB 2827 is a solution in search of a problem.
It is foolish to criminalize some of the best people in the state: Loving parents who want to educate, nurture and equip their children to be future productive members of society.
David E. Smith, Executive Director
Illinois Family Institute
Got something you want to get off your chest? Send us your letter to the editor today. Here is how: Read this.
Culinary.net - If you're looking for a new dip for your next get-together and tired of the same boring salsas and layered dips, this Cowboy Caviar may quickly become a family favorite.
Also known as Texas Caviar, this bean salad can be a hit with loved ones at birthdays, holidays, graduations, reunions and more. It serves well with tortilla chips but can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Plus, it's a breeze to make and can be even simpler when prepared the night before your big event.
Visit Culinary.net to find more quick and simple appetizer recipes. Here is how you lasso this together in just a few minutes.
Cowboy Caviar
What you will need:
1 can (15 ounces) sweet corn
1 can (15 ounces) black beans
1 bunch cilantro
3 Roma tomatoes
2 jalapenos
1/2 red onion
bell peppers (mix of green, red, orange and yellow, as desired)
tortilla chips, for serving
Dressing:
1/3 cup olive oil
1/3 cup red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon paprika
1 lime, juice only
salt, to taste
pepper, to taste
Step by step preparation:
Drain and rinse corn and black beans; dry well.
Finely chop and dice cilantro, tomatoes, jalapenos, onion and bell peppers.
To make dressing: Combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, paprika and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Mix vegetables with dressing. Serve with tortilla chips.
The following students from The Sentinel area earned Bachelor's degrees from Illinois State University in December of 2020:
Saint Joseph:
Ashley Gayheart - Bachelor of Science
Abigail Izard Abigail - Bachelor of Science in Education
Tolono:
Elijah Miller - Bachelor of Science
Brandon Reich - Bachelor of Science
*Students who chose to restrict access to Illinois State University directory information will not appear on this list.
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign announced graduates for the fall semester 2020, as well as those who graduated in August 2020 last week. There were 3,428 graduates in December of which 10 are from our area. In August, one area student was among the 1,626 conferred degrees last year.
St. Joseph native Rachel Gherna, an English major, earned her bachelor degree with High Distinction and graduated Cum Laude in December.
High Distinction is awarded to students with a GPA of 3.5 or higher for exceptional, praiseworthy work in the honors seminars and English courses. The candidate must also write an honors thesis with two out of three readers on the review panel recommending the work for High Distinction.
Cum Laude recognition is given to students in the top 12% of their class that maintains a GPA of at least 3.87.
December 2020 graduates include:
Julie Block, Tolono Master of Education in Education Policy, Organization and Leadership Graduate College
Robert Malmberg, Tolono Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts and Sciences Liberal Arts and Sciences
Tara Van Pelt, Tolono Master of Social Work Graduate College
Jonam Walter, Tolono Master of Science in Agricultural and Biological Engineering Graduate College
Kelly White, Tolono Doctor of Philosophy in Education Policy, Organization and Leadership Graduate College
Sophie Woolard, Tolono Bachelor of Social Work School of Social Work
Lauren Gherna, St Joseph Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts and Sciences Liberal Arts and Sciences
Kohlten Johnson, St Joseph Bachelor of Science in Agricultural and Consumer Economics Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences
Taryn Lempa, St Joseph Master of Business Administration Graduate College
Journey Slowikowski, St Joseph Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts and Sciences Liberal Arts and Sciences
August 2020 degree recipient:
Courtney McGraw, Tolono Master of Social Work Graduate College
The list above is provided by the university and based on the address supplied by students. Students who used a campus address as their mailing address may not be included in this article. This list may not include individual graduates conferred after February 4, 2020. If you suspect a problem with this list, contact the University of Illinois at (217)333-1085 or them at News Bureau. Did you, your son/daughter or a grandchild graduate from a public or private university back in May or this month? Let us know by sending their 2020 college graduation information.
Kimberly Capagalan [right] and Abriel Shipley, both from St. Joseph, race through a heavy downpour and flooded school parking lot on their way to their graduation ceremony at St. Joseph-Ogden High School. The two seniors and 104 other students made up the Class 2007 graduating on May 27, 2007.
Graduation out of the way, Cassidy Williams [right] takes a quick photo with friend Lenny Bolton. The pair were members of St. Joseph-Ogden High School 106 seniors graduating in 2007. Williams, a member of the Spartans' first competitive cheerleading squad, will continue both her athletic and academic career at Parkland College in Champaign.
This year's pandemic did not divert the efforts of 83 area residents who completed the requirements for their respective programs at Parkland College in May. Nearly a quarter of the graduates in the Class of 2020 received degrees in the medical field.
Due to successive executive orders put in place to stop the spread of the Coronavirus by Governor J.B. Pritzker, Parkland's 53rd Commencement Exercise was held online back on May 22, 2020 via YouTube for the first time in school history. Originally live-streamed, the virtual ceremony included speakers, award presentations, and the reading of the graduates' names.
This summer, Parkland sent graduates a green mortarboard, a Parkland tassel with new signet and a padded diploma cover as well as other memorabilia to commemorate their academic achievement.
The college also plans to extend an invitation to 2020 graduates to walk across the stage at the 2021 exercise.
Here is a list of area graduates enter the job market or continuing their education at a four-year institution:
Briley C Ackerman, Tolono AAS, Nursing
John M Acklin, Ogden AES, Engineering Science
Elizabeth K Alt, Tolono AA, Elementary Education
Cody W Argo, Tolono AGS, Associate in General Studies
Roger S Ayers, Sidney AAS, Nursing
Kayla J Balsbaugh, St. Joseph AAS, Child Development
Hollie N Baltzell, St. Joseph AAS, Nursing
Jennifer A Barnard, Sidney AA, General
Jason T Bowman, Ogden AAS, Agricultural Business: Precision Ag Technology
Kira J Brinkley, Tolono AFA, Music Education
Melanie L Broch, St. Joseph AAS, Surgical Technology
Bryson D Chancellor, Tolono AS, Aviation
Austin R Chilton, St. Joseph AS, Biological Sciences
Britney F Christman, Sidney AA, Psychology
Jarrett L Clem, St. Joseph CER, Construction: Electrical Inside Wireman
Destiny H Coffey, Sidney AA, Social Work
Bonnie G Collins, Ogden AAS, Digital Media
Elena K Cotter, St. Joseph AS, General
Christine M Danielson, Philo AS, General
Zach T David, Ogden AGS, Associate in General Studies
Logan J Dobbs, St. Joseph AAS, Diesel Power Equipment Technology
Kenzie L Dodds, Tolono AA, Psychology
Austin M Downen, Tolono AAS, Diesel Power Equipment Technology
Brandon G Downen, Tolono AA, Sociology
Emily C Eastin, Tolono AA, General
Trevor B Elliott, St. Joseph AA, Criminal Justice Education
Mickaela J Fleming, Royal AAS, Nursing
Hope A Frost, Royal AAS, Nursing
Lauren N Frost, Tolono AA, Criminal Justice Education
Justyn R Fruhling, St. Joseph AAS, Radiologic Technology
Bryce M Haake, St. Joseph AA, General
Webb T Hancock, Tolono AGS, Associate in General Studies
Grant C Harper, Ogden AAS, Automotive Technology
Christian M Hasler, Philo AA, History
Ashley N Holm, Tolono AGS, Associate in General Studies
Devinne D Horton, Sidney AAS, Nursing
Brandi L Huson, Ogden AGS, Associate in General Studies
Allyson K James, Philo AA, Elementary Education
Sophia A Kaisner, Philo AS, General
Zachary A Kohlmann, Tolono AGS, Associate in General Studies
Joseph H Lamendola, Tolono AGS, Associate in General Studies
Kaitlyn M Landis, St. Joseph AAS, Occupational Therapy Assistant
Payton J Lareau, Tolono AAS, Emergency Medical Services: Paramedic
Brianna S Lilly, St. Joseph AAS, Nursing
Alicia A Maxey, St. Joseph AAS, Criminal Justice
Emily M McCrone, Tolono AS, General
Emma L Messman, Sidney AS, General
Devon M Miezio, Ogden CER, Practical Nursing
Billie J Miller, Philo AGS, Associate in General Studies
Leah J Miller, Tolono AAS, Nursing
McKayla R Norton, Philo AGS, Associate in General Studies
Brendan Z Olauson, St. Joseph AES, Engineering Science
Kristen A Polizzi, St. Joseph AAS, Business: Management
Austin R Rein, Ogden AAS, Agricultural Business: Precision Ag Technology
Ileana L Roberts, Sidney AAS, Nursing
Carson T Robinson, Sidney AGS, Associate in General Studies
Samantha J Roderick, Tolono AA, General
Cori B Rodriguez, Ogden AAS, Nursing
Paige N Sappenfield, Philo AAS, Nursing
Megan K Schumacher, St. Joseph AAS, Veterinary Technology
Sydney J Schurvinske, Sidney AA, General
Briley L Smith, Tolono AA, Elementary Education
Katleyn M Smith, Ogden AAS, Radiologic Technology
Nash C Stanfield, Sidney AAS, Business: Management
Derek L Stevens, Tolono AAS, Emergency Medical Services: Paramedic
Andrew J Stewart, St. Joseph AA, Psychology
Kaitlyn R Taylor, St. Joseph CER, Practical Nursing
Mitchell R Thompsen, St. Joseph AS, General
Carrie J Turner, Tolono AAS, Business: Management
Jordan M Turner, St. Joseph CER, Automotive Technician
Kyle E Vansickle, Sidney AGS, Associate in General Studies
Kimberly A Vecchio, Philo AAS, Business Administrative Technology
Jason M Waldeck, St. Joseph AS, Computer Science/Computer Information Systems
Emilee M Walters, Tolono AA, Psychology
Ethan F Warren, Philo CER, Automotive Technician
Israel D Wells, Sidney AGS, Associate in General Studies
Kenneth A Wells Jr, St. Joseph AAS, Respiratory Care
Madison R Wilson, Philo AS, General
Sarah E Wiseman, St. Joseph AFA, Art and Design
Nicole L Woller, St. Joseph AS, General
Casey J Young, Tolono AA, General
Jordan T Hall, St. Joseph AAS, Nursing
Tenneal Frerichs, St. Joseph AAS, Nursing
Despite a global pandemic, 9,261 students from the Urbana-Champaign campus of the University of Illinois finished their degree programs to officially graduate. Among the recipients were 27 residents from The Sentinel's area of coverage.
Two students, Jocelyn Harmon and Nicholas Shapland, completed their education as double majors. Harmon, who graduated from the Gies College of Business, earned a second degree in Marketing. Meanwhile, Shapland completed the requirements his additional degree in Political Science.
Shapland graduated with High Distinction from his department in the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences.
Two other Unit 7 alumni in addition to Harmon, Madeline Wilson and Sierra Benson, were awarded High Honors distinction for their academic performance. High honor students finish their college degree with at least a 3.80 grade point average. Students with a GPA of 3.5 to 3.75 graduate with Honors.
Students with a GPA of 3.9 or higher are recognized with Highest Honors. Two undergraduates, Tolono resident Dawson Dodds and Ogden native Carly Frerichs, earned the academic titles upon graduation last May.
Highest honors are awarded to students upon recommendation by his or her department at the University through outstanding performance in course work and in supplementary activities of an academic or professional nature along with an undergraduate thesis or a special project of superior quality.
This year's degree recipients include:
Raghida Abdallah Yassine, St. Joseph Doctor of Philosophy in Education Policy, Organization and Leadership
Mary Adams, St. Joseph Master of Social Work
Nicolette Baccadutre, St. Joseph Master of Education in Education Policy, Organization and Leadership
Cole Berry, St. Joseph Master of Accounting Science
Ty Brown, St. Joseph Bachelor of Science in Agricultural and Consumer Economics
Carly Delzell, St. Joseph Master of Social Work
Kinze Ehmen, St. Joseph Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Leadership, Education, and Communications
Alexander Izard, St. Joseph Bachelor of Science in Agricultural and Consumer Economics
Michael Rajlich, St. Joseph Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
Erin Smith, St. Joseph Master of Education in Education Policy, Organization and Leadership
Patricia Stevens, St. Joseph Master of Education in Education Policy, Organization and Leadership
Carly Frerichs, Ogden Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology
Max Daly, Sidney Bachelor of Science in Agricultural and Consumer Economics
Susan Mantell, Sidney Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences
Nicholas Shapland, Sidney Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts and Sciences
Jesse Kiser, Philo Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts and Sciences
Gracie Schweighart, Philo Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts and Sciences
Sierra Benson, Tolono Bachelor of Fine Arts in New Media
Dawson Dodds, Tolono Bachelor of Science in Finance
Dawson Dodds, Tolono Bachelor of Science in Supply Chain Management
Jocelyn Harmon, Tolono Bachelor of Science in Supply Chain Management and in Marketing
Tatum Hawkins, Tolono Master of Science in Information Management
Keegan Payne, Tolono Bachelor of Science in Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences
Younis Ramahi, Tolono Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts and Sciences
Lucas Stark, Tolono Bachelor of Science in Technical Systems Management
Katrina Widholm, Tolono Master of Education
Madeline Wilson, Tolono Bachelor of Science in Journalism
The list above is provided by the university and based on the address supplied by students. This list may not include individual graduates conferred after July 15. If you suspect a problem with this list, contact the University of Illinois at (217)333-1085 or them at News Bureau. Did you, your son/daughter or a grandchild graduate from a public or private university back in May or this month? Let us know by sending their 2020 college graduation information.
"The science says students can't go back to their normal routine," said Governor J.B. Pritzker on Friday before making the announcement that Illinois schools would remain closed for the remainder of the academic 2019-2020 year. Two minutes into his daily briefing, he dropped the hammer that students, especially seniors hoped would not fall. "We know there are many school districts with unique challenges and we will work with them on issues as the need arise."
With remote learning already in progress for several weeks, St. Joseph CCSD #169 superintendent Brian Brooks said the district really didn't have any major hurdles that needed to be cleared to finish out the school year.
"The challenges are now geared towards how we wrap up the school year with students and staff without having them physically in the building," he said. "Remote learning has been far from perfect, and I’m sure very frustrating at times for both students and staff."
Brooks said he is very impressed with how students and staff throughout the district has responded to the new and hopefully temporary normal. Hopefully, by the time the Class of 2021 is ready to take their first step into the hallways at St. Joseph-Ogden High School in August, the infectious danger will be minimal.
Students and teachers are looking forward to returning to the brick mortar setting. However, the return to normal could be short-lived with prominent epidemiologists and immunologists warning a second wave or resurgence is possible.
In the absence of a vaccine and immunity through exposure, countries around the world may need to continue social distancing into 2022 to prevent critical care units according to a projections in a Harvard study published in Science.
"One of the biggest challenges for our teachers is reaching every student, and then being able to motivate every student to keep pushing and moving forward academically," Brooks explained. "I, like probably everyone else, sincerely hope we don’t return to remote learning, stay at home order, or shelter in place situation again this fall, but if we were to ever have to do this in the future, yes I do think students and staff will be more prepared."
In the mean time, Brooks and his team are looking at ways the district safely provide a commencement ceremony for the Class of 2020.
There are several ideas in consideration. One is to replicate various portions of the ceremony, video those things happening while observing social distancing protocols, and then put it all together into a single production to give graduates a sense of a "true graduation ceremony."
"We want our graduates to be able to walk across the stage with their cap and gown on, and their parents/guardians be able to take a picture of that," he said. "If it means doing it one graduate at a time so that we stay within the guidelines and keep everyone safe. We hope to have details finalized and information to be pushed out over the next week or two."
Brooks said it is "absolutely heartbreaking for both the Class of 2020 and their families." The district is going to do everything it can so that SJO seniors can have the best possible experience considering the extraordinary circumstances.
That includes possibly holding graduation later in the summer.
"We are certainly not opposed to doing a traditional ceremony in the summer, and would relish that opportunity for our graduates, but we want to prepare as if that isn’t going to be allowed so that we can hopefully offer our graduates something that will be memorable for them."
Gov. Pritzker acknowledged that seniors this year will leave school in a way that they never expected, a sentiment that extends school staff and the parents of the Class 2020.
"I know you are feeling sad about missing the rituals of senior prom, senior pranks, senior nights and of course graduation," attempting connect with the emotions thousands of senior around the state listening to his address. "Hear it from me as your Governor: There is room for you to feel all those things big and small. You will get through this, too."
The Governor said this year's seniors will talk about this moment in history, remembering it for the rest of their lives. He spoke assuredly that this class of Illinois high school students would go on to do amazing things despite missing customs enjoyed by generations before them.
With group protests over the governor's shelter-in-place order starting mirror those in other states along with and a slight increase in citizens around the country disregarding social distancing protocols over the past week, the curve public health agencies are trying to flatten could rise. Sadly, that would put any plans of a live ceremony by the district in jeopardy.
Brooks admitted that "a mass gathering of 2,000 people any time this summer is probably becoming less realistic as each day goes by."
"There is nothing we can say or do that will replace what (our seniors) have lost," he said.
From the very start The Sentinel has publish the names of graduates from our area who have earned degrees from colleges and universities around the state.
Graduates whose names were omitted from our list such as in this linked story - please know it was not intentional - was due to the lack information supplied by their college public relations department.
University communications and public affair offices typically provide or make available lists of fall and spring graduates by zip code. Quite often students living off-campus supply their school address in the city they live while attending school as their contact address instead of their hometown address.
This also happens when The Sentinel and other news organizations publish semester or quarterly Dean's List and Honor Roll accolades.
Are you graduating from a two or four-year institution this May? Is your son, daughter or grandchild earning a college degree, a masters or their doctorate?
The Sentinel would be more than happy to share your graduate's academic accomplishment, so by golly don't be shy and let us know about it. We here to help celebrate the milestone with friends and neighbors in our community. Your news may help inspire a student in high school or junior high to reach for the stars.
Submit the information below with as much information as possible. Then email them to us at editor@oursentinel.com.
ALL SUBMISSIONS MUST BE RECEIVED BY JULY 1, 2020, AND INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:
• Student’s full name and a contact email address
• A brief description of the graduate including future plans, special achievements, activities, employer etc.
• Name of college or university graduating from
• Major
• Degree earned (for college graduates)
• Year graduating from SJO (if applicable)
Please include your name and telephone number or name and email/phone number for parent or guardian if we need to verify the submitted information at the bottom of the email.
St. Joseph resident Kelsey Dzwileski and Stephanie Costa, from Ogden, completed challenging advanced degree programs at Illinois' flagship academic institution. Dzwileski, who co-authored research on Association of prenatal maternal perceived stress with a sexually dimorphic measure of cognition in 4.5-month-old infants received her PhD in Neuroscience. Costa earn a masters from the renown College of Human Resources and Industrial Relations.
Six former St. Joseph-Ogden High School athletes were also among eight area residents who graduated with Bachelors of Science degrees from the University of Illinois in December.
This year's degree recipients include:
Kelsey Dzwilewski, St. Joseph Doctor of Philosophy in Neuroscience
Luke Falls, St. Joseph Bachelor of Science in Information Systems and Information Technology
Rylan Housenga, St. Joseph Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts and Sciences
Lindsey Kelso, St. Joseph Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Communications
Austin Luebchow, St. Joseph Bachelor of Science in Finance
Casey Modglin, St. Joseph Bachelor of Science in Agricultural and Consumer Economics
Rachel Mullen, St. Joseph Bachelor of Science in Crop Sciences
Jacob Pence, St. Joseph Bachelor of Science in Finance
Kenzie Dodds, Tolono Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts and Sciences
Stephanie Costa, Ogden Master of Human Resources and Industrial Relations
The list above is provided by the university and based on the address supplied by students. Students who used a campus address as their mailing address may not be included in this article. This list may not include individual graduates conferred after February 4, 2020. If you suspect a problem with this list, contact the University of Illinois at (217)333-1085 or them at News Bureau. Did you, your son/daughter or a grandchild graduate from a public or private university back in May or this month? Let us know by sending their 2020 college graduation information.
Twelve St. Joseph-Ogden High School students were name among 6,394 Illinois residents who earned degrees from the University of Illinois this past spring. Three of the 12 former Spartans who received bachelor degrees obtained their diplomas with exceptional academic laurels.
Former SJO cheerleader LaRyssa Randall smiles during a photo shoot with fellow cheerleaders in 2011. Randall, from St. Joseph, graduated this past spring from the University of Illinois with Highest Honors with a Bachelor of Science in Community Health. (Photo: PhotoNews Media/Clark Brooks)
LaRyssa Randall, from St. Joseph, was bestowed Highest Honors recognition after completing coursework for her Bachelor of Science in Community Health from the College of Applied Health Sciences.
Students at the University of Illinois who are awarded Highest Honors have achieved outstanding performance in their courses as well as participated in supplementary activities of an academic or professional nature. This honor generally requires completion of an undergraduate thesis or a special project of superior quality within most university departments. Highest honors are also awarded to students upon recommendation of his or her department.
Randall, from the Class of 2012, was a Spartan cheerleader at SJO.
Danielle Kaiser and Whitney Setterdahl also earned high academic recognition for their undergraduate studies.
Kaiser, from St. Joseph, earned High Honors recognition after with her degree in Speech and Hearing Science from the College of Applied Health Sciences. High honors students must have a cumulative grade point average at least 3.80 at graduation.
Setterdahl, from Ogden, graduated with Honors with a degree in Finance from the Gies College of Business. To receive a honors designation students must possess a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.50.
Two graduates in our area earned advanced degrees from University of Illinois.
Former Spartan distance runner and Ogden native Beau Barber, who has been active in plant research at the university since 2014, received his Master of Science in Agricultural and Biological Engineering in Agricultural and Biological Engineering.
Angela Mock earned a Master of Social Work from Illinois' School of Social Work. Mock did her internship at Urbana School District #116 and prior to that spent two years as a teacher at Robeson Elementary and editor at the university.
The remaining area students earning bachelor degrees from the University of Illinois include:
Ryan Allen, St. Joseph, Major: Molecular and Cellular Biology / Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts and Sciences
Amie Bott, Ogden, Major: Molecular and Cellular Biology / Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts and Sciences
Jessica Kassuelke, Ogden, Major: Food Science and Human Nutrition / Bachelor of Science in Food Science and Human Nutrition
Kimberly Newman, St. Joseph, Major: Communication / Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts and Sciences
Matthew Rabb, St. Joseph, Major: Agricultural and Consumer Economics / Bachelor of Science in Agricultural and Consumer Economics
Hailee Robbins, St. Joseph, Major: Elementary Education / Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
Hannah Zalaker, St. Joseph, Major: Kinesiology / Applied Health Sciences
Update
(8/28/19)
It has come to our attention that several area SJO graduates were omitted from this article at the time of publication. Names that did not appear in this story were not included due to those students providing a campus address as their home address to the university. Our logic in compiling this list was apparently flawed in assuming that graduates in a list provided by the university News Bureau with a 61859, 61871 or 61873 zip code attended SJO. We will address that in future graduation stories. In certain instances, graduates may not have been appeared in this story because graduates were added to the official campus list after June 24.
The original headline to this story, 12 SJO alumni earn UofI degrees, was changed to 12 area students earn UofI degrees and certain instances of SJO alumni has been changed to area students or removed from the story.
Are there other omissions? Click here to submit information for corrections.
Colton Bowser (left) maintains control of the ball in SJO's home game against Urbana University High School. This past May, Bowser, from Ogden, received his Bachelor of Science from Illinois State University. (Photo: PhotoNews Media/Clark Brooks)
Illinois State University awarded more than 3,500 college degrees on May 11. Among the recipients were four St. Joseph-Ogden High School alumni.
Colton Bowser and Dalton Smith, both from Ogden, earned a Bachelor of Science from the university located in Normal. Katie Kurtz, also from Ogden, received her Bachelor of Science in Education.
Brandon Burnett, from St. Joseph, completed the requirements for a Bachelor of Science and eligible to walk at the spring commencement ceremony.
Illinois State will awarded 3,523 baccalaureate degrees and 708 graduate degrees. There were a total of 3,885 students scheduled to participate in the spring ceremonies across the campus.
Last month on May 19, 118 seniors became SJO alums. While we wanted to publish this page and memorable photos sooner, we haven't quite acquired all the resource we need yet. Without further adieu, here are l2 photos from that milestone day.
John Ward and Jack Cook enter the main runway during the processional at the St. Joseph-Ogden 2019 Commencement Exercise on Sunday. Photo by Clark Brooks
Principal Gary Page III makes his opening remarks at the beginning of St. Joseph-Ogden's 2019 Commencement Exercise. Photo by Clark Brooks
Parents, siblings, family and friends packed the St. Joseph-Ogden gymnasium to watch the Class of 2019 commencement exercise. The audience listens as Principal Gary Page III extols on the academic achievement displayed by this year's senior class. Photo by Clark Brooks
Dwight Colvin, a three-sport athlete who while continue both his education and athletic career at McKendree College, receives his diploma and warm handshake from St. Joseph-Ogden Board of Education president James Rein. Photo by Clark Brooks
All smiles with diploma in hand as walks across the stage, Keely McCorkle prepares to shake hands with superintendent Brian Brooks. Photo by Clark Brooks
One of many messages displayed on mortar boards at the 2019 St. Joseph-Ogden Commencement Exercise. Photo by Clark Brooks
Freshly minted SJO grad and two-sport athlete Joel Orcutt grins for a photo after receiving his diploma at graduation. Photo by Clark Brooks
A couple of parents eagerly photographs as students walk down the steps to the stage at graduation. Photo by Clark Brooks
Seniors Sully Alwes, Gage Atwood and Cassidy Bagby mug for the camera during their commencement ceremony at St. Joseph-Ogden High School. In the final quarter of their high careeer, Atwood and Bagby earned a 3.75 GPA to be named to the High Honor Roll list. Alwes also earned honor roll recognition with a GPA greater than 3.25. (Photo: PhotoNews Media/Clark Brooks)
In a storm of confetti, St. Joseph-Ogden students celebrate the end of their high school career. Photo by Clark Brooks
Flanked by her cousins Lindsey and Sydney Kelso, Kassandra Kelso poses for a quick smartphoto photo after returning her robe. Photo by Clark Brooks
Sally Manalo poses for a photo with her parents, Nelson and Jamie, in the auxiliary gym after Sunday's graduation ceremony. Photo by Clark Brooks
Photos displayed on this page are available for order here.
One of the most attractive things about St. Joseph-Ogden High School is the small town values that permeates throughout the school's culture. The commitment to family, friends and the community to not only succeed, but excel is a core value in academics, the arts, activities and of course, athletics. The level of caring and support is sometimes immeasurable.
"There is a culture of high expectations," St. Joseph-Ogden principal Gary Page said about not only the impressive academic accomplishment achieved by this year's senior class, but of the student body and faculty as a whole. Sixty-six percent of the members of the Class of 2019 graduated with a grade point average of 3.0, a 'B' or better. "It is the positive competitiveness they have with each other, but at the same time they are always supporting each other."
Keanen Swanson escorts classmate Rylee Walsh during Saturday's graduation processional. One hundred and eighteen seniors received their diplomas before a near capacity gymnasium of family and friends. (Photo: PhotoNews Media/Clark Brooks)
Cole Zaccarelli was apprehensive when he and his family moved into the area three years ago. Coming from a much larger community in Texas, he was sure there would be fewer opportunities to enjoy. It didn't take long for his mind to change.
"St. Joe has everything you could possibly imagine. Just the fact that our class (cumulative) GPA was 3.3. That's insane," he said proudly. "The number of things I've experienced, like going to play in an All-Star (football) game in Texas, the tradition of going to state and watching the state football championships; those are things I will always remember."
Nick Boggs, who will start Butler University's pharmacy program this fall, said he will always remember the Spartans' run to winning the 2016 state basketball title and getting kicked out of prom his junior year with his girlfriend.
"That was pretty fun," he said smiling from ear to ear. "It's a good memory for my girlfriend and I."
He had nothing by praises for school that just became his Alma Mater.
"St. Joe is a really good school. We have great teachers, great friends and a really good community," he said immediately. "My mom and my dad are really proud of me."
Hopefully, he won't forget his first home varsity run last month, either. His baseball season isn't over quite yet. Boggs and Spartans won a regional baseball title less than 24 hours before he graduated with honors from SJO. The Spartans advanced to a sectional semifinal against fellow Illini Prairie Conference rival Bloomington Central Catholic.
"Our offense was okay, but not terrible," Boggs said about the 3-1 win over Monticello. "We've got figure it out for the next game."
Erinn Miller described graduation day as bitter sweet. Her immediate plans includes attending St. Louis University to study nursing.
"It sad because you are leaving all your friends that you have been with for a really long time. It is also pretty exciting," Miller said. "I'm kind of sad to leave my family, but it will be okay."
Her advice to the Class of 2020 and beyond was simple. Get involved.
"Definitely try everything. If there is a class you want to take or join or club, do it. You might something you really like."
Zaccarelli's message for the upcoming senior class was similar to Miller's recommending that everyone experience should try to experience everything they can.
"You don't have to fit any kind of demographic. Experience as many things as you can."
SJO Class Officers of 2019
President
Vice-President
Secretary
Treasurer
Miss Rylee Sjuts
Miss Hannah Lewis
Miss Kalli Ingram
Mr. Justyn Frisby
Seniors in National Honor Society
Cassidy Danielle Bagby, Adam Douglas Frerichs, Benjamin Duane Setterdahl, Nicholas Ryan Boggs, Hannah Elaine Lewis, Jacob Anthony Shaw, Rebecca Michelle Campbell, Keely Ireland McCorkle, Kaitlin Marie Shoviak, Kayla Nicole Cañas, Erinn Catherine Miller, Grant Edward Siegmund, Emmy Noelle Daniels, Eve Frances Owens, Rylee Mareka Sjuts, Nathan Taylor Emmert, Adam Patrick Rose, Brianna Grace Suits, Emilie Louise Fox, Abigail Kaylyn Grace Schlueter and Maclayne Kathryn Taylor.
St. Joseph-Ogden High School Class of 2019
Sullivan Michael Alwes
Gage Andrew Atwood
Cassidy Danielle Bagby
Erin Marie Beyers
Kaylee Lillian-Elizabeth Blanchard
Nicholas Ryan Boggs
Joel Tucker Branson
Jarett David Burnett
Makayla Nicole Buskirk
Brooke Rose Butorac
Rebecca Michelle Campbell
Ripley Steven Campbell
Kayla Nicole Cañas
Daniel Robert Carlson
Sarah Chahine Hannah
Dwight Colvin Nathan
Jackson Rilee Cook
Aiden Matthew Coon
Amanda Jo Craddock
Ashtyn Crosby Cromwell
Peyton Grace Crowe
David Andrew Cummins
Emmy Noelle Daniels
Liam Morris Davis
Chloe Marie Duckett
Abigail Marie Dunham
Avery Mary Margaret Edwards
Griffin Kayne Emery-Carlson
Nathan Taylor Emmert
Emory Lynn Ericksen
Jasmine Marie Febus
Michael Peyton Foreman
Emilie Louise Fox
Cole Scott Franzen
Adam Douglas Frerichs
Justyn Isaac Frisby
Bryce Steven Froeschl
Lane Michael Gaskin
Rachel Lynn Gherna
Grant Joseph Goff
Haley Elizabeth Griebat
Kaleb Tanner Harshbarger
Mikayla Svetlana Harshbarger
Kaitlyn Marie Hess
Zachary Alan Hill
Kalli Elizabeth Ingram
Kaden Michael Jacobs
Michelle Nicole Jervis
Caleb Lynn Johnson
Geoffrey Dylan Johnson
Jake James Juday
Kassandra Leigh Kelso
Kenneth Elijah-Lewis Lahners
Ethan Andrew Landreth
Elaine Lewis Benjamin
James Logan Jacob
Sally Michelle Manalo
Kyler Kendrick Master
Keely Ireland McCorkle
Isiah Robert McCune
Tianna Marie McCune
Shelby Elizabeth Schriber McElroy
Aiden Bradley Meyer
Erinn Catherine Miller
Ryan Michael Miller
Megan Kristina Mitchell
Caroline Elizabeth Moore
Tyler Wade Moore
Jonah Wesley Morris
Heidi Marie Novak
Joel Aiden Orcutt
Eve Frances Owens
Angela Joyce Palmer
Reid Curtis Patton
Karsyn Michelle Peters
Raymond Jerold Plotner
Adam Jeffrey Lewis Porter
Kathryn Marie Poulter
Lindsey Dale Pryor
Hannah Jo Quick
Joseph Paul Rajlich
Benjamin Christian Reitmeier
Annelise Korra Rhoads
Hanson Eugene Rieches
Adam Patrick Rose
Libby Marie Rowland
Madison Rosalie Rubin
Niko Xavier-Laurence Russell
Shane Christopher Allen Sabin
Abigail Kaylyn Grace Schlueter
Elizabeth Jo Schluter
Samantha Rae Schmidt
Kabriel Michael Schuster
Duane Setterdahl
Anthony Shaw
Kaitlin Marie Shoviak
Grant Edward Siegmund
Rylee Mareka Sjuts
Nicholas Robert Skelton
Clare Wonder Smith
Kamryn Averie Smith
Savannah Elizabeth Smith
Isabella Rome Spisok
Brianna Grace Suits
Keanen Michael Swanson
Maclayne Kathryn Taylor
Bree Ann Trimble
Dillon David Uken
Nathan Rea Walden
Rylee Renee Walsh
John Patrick Ward
Seth Alexander Wedig
Jacob Victor Wendling
Conner Alexander White
Alyssa Renee Whitlock
Karringten Kalista Winn
Wade Monroe Wronke
Cole Richard Zaccarelli
(Photo: PhotoNews Media/Clark Brooks)
Members of the St. Joseph-Ogden Class of 2019 celebrated in colorful style after receiving their diplomas on Sunday. One hundred and twenty-eight students were conferred as the newest class of graduates.
"They were a phenomenal class; a very, very bright class," said principal Gary Page. The Class of 2019 entered SJO as freshmen the same year he took over the reigns as principal. "Their GPA (as a class) was phenomenal."
When asked what three words characterized the Class of 2019, Paige responded with, "intelligent, fun and unpredictable."
66% of the senior class earned 3.0 or better grade average. The composite SAT score for this year's graduating class was 1112, which is 100 points higher than the state average.
Just as impressive is the fact that the senior class earned 914 dual credit college hours. After adding AP credit to that number, Paige envisions the dual credit hours to be close to a thousand.
They had a really good chemistry. They did enjoy each other and had a lot of fun together," Paige said. "I think they are a pretty close. That chemistry showed inside the school and they were great leaders inside of our building."
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Culinary.net - If you're looking for a new dip for your next get-together and tired of the same boring salsas and layered dips, this Cowboy Caviar may quickly become a family favorite.
Also known as Texas Caviar, this bean salad can be a hit with loved ones at birthdays, holidays, graduations, reunions and more. It serves well with tortilla chips but can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Plus, it's a breeze to make and can be even simpler when prepared the night before your big event.
Visit Culinary.net to find more quick and simple appetizer recipes. Here is how you lasso this together in just a few minutes.
![Kimberly Capagalan [right] and Abriel Shipley brave a downpour to get to their graduation ceremony in 2007.](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_KBYO-6SXUaT3Q606eZVXoCbVxigOD8DHHOgfvVUrTpE-ag6oCGDmzm-8IsVjNPFBdf36TfGRqu6llBFDsWjSWWmutUodwOrbDA8cPNZ_MX4Gvy6PpTo85CD9DPBBXW24_j-Rx8wQbG8/s0/07sjograd022.jpg)
