Willowbrook names November recipient of 88’s Best recognition
Left: Pictured is Willowbrook senior Le’Kendra Hill, who has been named as the school's November recipient of 88’s Best recognition for her highly improved performance. Right: Hill (pictured second from left in the second row) is recognized as Willowbrook's November recipient of 88’s Best recognition during the District 88 Board of Education meeting on Nov. 16.
Le’Kendra Hill has been named as Willowbrook’s November recipient of 88’s Best recognition for her highly improved performance. Hill, a senior, was recognized during the Nov. 16 District 88 Board of Education meeting. To listen to her 88’s Best presentation, go to https://www.dupage88.net/site/page/12373.
The high school experience is personal for each student, as he or she encounters challenges and celebrates successes. Hill speaks of this with confidence and passion as she reflects on her journey and the support provided by her family, friends and Willowbrook staff.
Hill has continued to improve her academic performance and expand the rigor of courses in which she’s enrolled. This commitment to continuous growth resulted in her earning Honor Roll status last semester, and she is earning As and Bs in her classes this semester. Hill is enrolled in a dual-credit course that will earn her college credit, as well as a college prerequisite math course that will allow her to transition to college-level math without a placement test or remediation.
“I am so happy for and proud of Hill,” said Matt Cochran, Willowbrook learning services teacher. “I don't think I've ever gotten to work with a nicer student or one who works harder at achieving her goals. Hill used every opportunity given in chemistry her sophomore year to improve her grade or relearn material. Also, since I have had her in class, she has always gone out of her way to say hello to me and ask about my kids while we passed in the hall and just be a cheery, nice person. Being nice and making others feel better about their day is a small gesture that goes a long way, and I always appreciate it. I have five daughters, and I hope they are as nice, caring and hardworking as Hill. She truly is one of District 88's Best.”
Beyond the classroom, Hill also is involved as a member of Willowbrook’s Best Buddies Club and Black Organization for Student Success (BOSS).
“I love Hill!” said Carmen Avdiu, Willowbrook School Counselor. “She is so hard working and is an amazing young lady. Throughout this whole time that we have been remote (because of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic), her motivation has never dwindled. She has applied to Elmhurst University, and every single time we have met via Google Meet, she is present, camera on, ready to participate. This young lady has come a long way. It has been so refreshing to see how much she has matured, and she has totally come out of her shell! She advocates for herself and is so ready to move into adulthood. It has been wonderful to be part of her high school journey.”
Hill plans to continue her education at Elmhurst University and will pursue a degree in special education or social work. She plans to return to a school setting and provide the support to others that she experienced during her high school career.
- District 88 values the hard work and achievements of students and wants to make sure students are honored and recognized for their accomplishments. The District 88 Board of Education and administration created the 88’s Best award to highlight students’ success. That award recognizes nine Addison Trail and nine Willowbrook students each school year for reaching their personal best in various areas. Recipients are honored during a District 88 Board of Education meeting in one of the following areas: academics, highly improved performance, extracurricular activities, service work or performing arts/electives. They receive an 88’s Best glass sculpture and a certificate to a local restaurant.