Valley View honors STEM winners, Senate Youth Program selectee and dozens of AP and National Merit scholars

The Valley View CUSD 365U Board of Education opened its Feb. 23 meeting with multiple student recognitions, highlighting academic and extracurricular achievements across the district.

Patrick McGinnis, principal of Brooks Middle School, introduced the 2026 Valley View STEM Cathelon champions and thanked coaches Miss Skelly and Miss Kaye for guiding a team that placed in the top three across five events. "This year's champions placed in the top 3 of all 5 events," McGinnis said.

Gina Smith, assistant principal for curriculum and instruction at Romeoville High School, introduced senior Elanie Trejo, who was selected to represent Illinois at the U.S. Senate Youth Program in Washington, D.C. Smith said Trejo will meet senators and other officials and will receive $10,000 for undergraduate studies as part of the program award.

Chuck Merrick, activities director at Bolingbrook High School, presented the Bolingbrook chess teamwhich qualified for the IHSA state final tournament for the eighth consecutive year and finished the season with a 15-10 record and a 4-3 showing at state.

Administrators then recognized dozens of AP Scholars, Illinois State Scholars and National Merit recipients from both Romeoville and Bolingbrook high schools, reading many names and noting distinctions (AP Scholar, AP Scholar with Honor, AP Scholar with Distinction, Illinois State Scholar, National Merit Commendation/Finalist).

The board applauded the students and their families; Dr. Wood and board members encouraged continued support for enrichment programs and noted upcoming district events such as the Valley View Educational Enrichment Foundation annual dinner on March 6.

These recognitions were presented by school leaders and district staff; no formal board action was required.