In a spirited gathering at the May 2025 Regular Meeting of the D128 School Board, the air was charged with passion as students, parents, and community leaders voiced their concerns and aspirations regarding the future of the Vernon Hills High School swim program. The meeting, held on May 27, 2025, highlighted the pressing need for a renewed partnership with RISE Aquatics, a collaboration that many believe could elevate the swim team's performance and resources.

Freshman swimmer Jack Janzen took to the podium first, sharing a glimpse into the rigorous training regimen of the Vernon Hills swim team. With practices starting at 6 AM and extending into the evening, Janzen painted a vivid picture of dedication and hard work. Despite their impressive achievements, including two consecutive conference titles and a state ranking as high as eighth, Janzen emphasized the limitations posed by outdated equipment and insufficient resources. "Imagine what we could achieve with the right tools in our hands," he urged, calling for the board's support to reinstate RISE's partnership, which he argued would provide essential resources and training opportunities.

Following Janzen, Andrew Spivak, a parent of two Vernon Hills swimmers, echoed similar sentiments. He expressed concern over the dwindling number of trained swimmers entering the program, attributing this decline to RISE's inability to accommodate more athletes due to space constraints. Spivak highlighted the potential benefits of utilizing the high school pool for RISE practices, which could foster greater participation and enhance the overall swimming experience for students.

Gwen Janssen, another parent and advocate for the swim program, brought a broader perspective to the discussion. She pointed out the inequities between Vernon Hills and Libertyville High Schools, where the latter enjoys a productive partnership with RISE. Janssen argued that the current arrangement has led to increased wear and tear on the aging facilities at Vernon Hills, ultimately disadvantaging its students. "Let's not treat them as outsiders, but welcome them back into Vernon Hills High School," she implored, emphasizing the need for equitable support for all athletes in the district.

Matt Laporte, the executive director of the Vernon Hills Park District, also addressed the board, highlighting the park district's commitment to community partnerships and the importance of shared use agreements. He noted that while the Turtle Swim Club operates successfully within the district, the lack of a similar partnership for Vernon Hills swimmers has created a gap in resources and opportunities.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the community's desire for a renewed partnership with RISE Aquatics is not just about swimming; it reflects a deeper commitment to fostering talent, unity, and pride among student-athletes. The discussions underscored the importance of collaboration between the school board, parents, and local organizations to ensure that all students have access to the resources they need to succeed.

As the evening drew to a close, the board members were left with a poignant reminder of the potential that lies within the Vernon Hills swim program. With the right support and partnerships, the future could be bright for these dedicated athletes, who are not just chasing titles but also building a legacy of teamwork and excellence.