On behalf of the Joliet Grade School District, thanks to state Sen. A. J. Wilhelmi for his diligence and persistence in helping us secure our $26.7 million Illinois school construction grant. This money was originally promised to us in 2001 to reimburse the district for additions at Cunningham, Farragut, Pershing and Woodland schools, and money to buy new schools.

Delay of the money forced us to reopen a 127-year-old building, Parks School, three years ago to alleviate overcrowding in the Marshall Elementary School area. I am happy to report that because of Wilhelmi's determination, we will begin building a new elementary school on the East Side of Joliet on the Gompers Junior High School campus in the next few weeks.

Wilhelmi has been a continuing advocate for children and has worked tirelessly to ensure that school districts throughout the area receive maximum funding. He is a vital contributor to this community and I thank him for his continued support for public education.

So, to Sen. Wilhelmi, 11,200 thank yous from all of our district students.

Phyllis M. Wilson, superintendent

Joliet Public School District