CHICAGO –The deadline to nominate students for the Golden Apple Scholars has been extended, from Nov. 1 to Dec. 1. Students in their senior year of high school who plan to teach in a needy school in Illinois may be nominated for the award. They may be nominated by teachers, counselors, principals or other non-family adults, and may also nominate themselves. 

Winners will be awarded tuition assistance to a college in Illinois and will be given continued mentorship by educators who have won the Golden Apple Award. In return for the scholarship, Golden Apple Scholars agree to teach in high-need schools for five years after graduation.

Teachers from Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry or Will counties may also be nominated for the related Golden Apple Award. They must teach in grades 4-8, and can be nominated by parents, students, administrators and other teachers. Nominations are due December 31.

“We’re lucky to have many great educators and students in our area. Especially at this time of year, it’s important that we recognize and give thanks for them,” said Cunningham.

The winners will be inducted into the Golden Apple Academy of Educators, receive a paid spring quarter sabbatical at Northwestern University in Evanston and a $3,000 cash prize.

Chicago – To help boost supplies at local food pantries during the holiday season, State Sen. Bill Cunningham and State Rep. Fran Hurley are launching a food drive at their local offices. From Nov. 1  to Dec. 1, community members are encouraged to drop off non-perishable food items at the offices listed below.

 Chicago                                                                  Orland Hills                                                      Worth Township
10400 S. Western Ave., Chicago          16033 S. 94^th Ave., Orland Hills         11601 S. Pulaski Rd., Alsip
8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.                                           10 a.m. – 2 p.m.                                             9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

“For many struggling families, the holidays are the most difficult time of the year,” Cunningham said. “I hope we can all put aside a little to help those families in need. Any size donation is welcome and can help make a substantial difference.”

All donations will be given to local food pantries in Chicago, Orland Hills, and Worth. Last year, a similar food drive by then-State Rep. Cunningham raised nearly 300 pounds of food for local pantries. Unfortunately monetary donations cannot be accepted, but gift cards are welcome.

Senator Bill Cunningham took part in an Illinois education tradition this week, serving as "Principal for the Day" at Sandburg High School in Chicago's District 230. The Illinois Principals Association invites lawmakers to step into the shoes of a principal in their district to honor the work and commitment of school leaders, educators and students.