Willowbrook names November recipient of 88’s Best recognition

Pictured is Willowbrook senior Tarell Regans (left), who has been named as the school’s November recipient of 88’s Best recognition. He was honored during the Nov. 12 District 88 Board of Education meeting and is pictured with Willowbrook Principal Dr. Daniel Krause.

Tarell Regans has been named as Willowbrook’s November recipient of 88’s Best recognition for his highly improved performance. Regans, a senior, was recognized during the Nov. 12 District 88 Board of Education meeting. To watch Regans’ 88’s Best presentation, go to https://www.dupage88.net/site/page/9596.

The transition to high school can be a challenge for any ninth-grade student. Add a move to a new town, as well as starting at a new school, and it can make the experience even more difficult. This is what Regans faced when he came to Willowbrook, and he speaks honestly about his struggles as he began his freshman year. With the help and support of teachers, friends and family members, Regans improved his study habits and developed a love of school.

At the start of his high school career, Regans was enrolled in support and resource courses for reading and math, but has since transitioned to become a self-directed learner who seeks help and support independently, while assisting other students in their success. Regans’ journey has included becoming involved in a multitude of events and activities such as joining the Boys Track Team and being named as Class President. He also was recognized with the Human Relations Award for his contributions to others and is a member of the Honor Roll.

“I am happy someone sees the amazing young man Regans has become during the past couple of years,” said Carrie Skala, Willowbrook math teacher. “I had Regans when he was a sophomore in Geometry, and he is one of my most memorable students. He is always polite, engaged in class and ready to tackle any task placed in front of him. He is a positive addition to every classroom and is willing to put the effort into understanding the subject. Although I have not taught Regans since he was a sophomore, he still says hello every single time he sees me in the hallway. When he graduates this spring, I know his presence will be missed in this building.”

Willowbrook English teacher Cris Calandra agreed.

“One of the biggest disappointments for me as a teacher was when I looked at my roster and did not see Regan’s name listed,” Calandra said. “As a sophomore, Regans was one of the kindest students I have ever taught. When the class would start to get a little loud or talkative, Regans would always speak up and ask everyone to quiet down. He has an inherent desire to learn and wants others around him to do well. He is always trying to be better in every way. However, my favorite memory happened one day when I was using a bunch of markers that were linked together by the caps as a pointer for the lecture I was giving. The problem was, the markers kept falling apart. Regans then announced, ‘You need a pointer – I’ve got you!’ He then went on Amazon and ordered one. A few minutes later he announced to the class, ‘I ordered you a pointer. It's arriving in two days!’ Two days later I got my pointer, and it now sits on my desk as a reminder there are students who care for and love us just as much as we care for and love them. Regans is a student destined for greatness, and he is the perfect recipient for this honor.”

Willowbrook Counselor Scott Forcash said Regans’ internal drive to better himself is what makes him stand out.

“Regans started out his first semester at Willowbrook and struggled with staying motivated,” Forcash said. “He has been able to bring his cumulative GPA up by improving his study habits and recently earned a 1270 on his SAT, which ranks him among the top 88 percent of students nationally. Although he is unsure of his future career plans, he is interested in exploring careers such as a physician assistant, a zoologist or a high school counselor. Regans attributes his change in attitude and motivation toward high school to his teachers. I’ve really enjoyed watching Regans mature through the years and step into a leadership role among his peers. I applaud his change in work ethic, positive attitude toward school and drive to succeed after high school.”

Regans intends to continue his education at The University of Illinois at Chicago, Arizona State University or Northern Illinois University, where he plans to study biology to possibly become a veterinarian.

• 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 seniors 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.