Every bay on the third floor of Top Golf in Schaumburg was filled Thursday night with supporters of District 214’s Education Foundation, including business leaders, municipal officials and community activists who gathered to take their swings.
District 214 Board President Alva Kreutzer with Tom Munz, former President of the District 214 Education Foundation
For the third year in a row, this unique fundraiser helped raise money for student support beyond the scope of the district’s funding and budget.
“The Top Golf event felt special,” says Dr. Lazaro Lopez, in his first year as executive director of the Foundation. “There was so much laughter, reconnections and a bit of competition. We had 200 attendees that were genuinely excited to be there to support what makes District 214 unique and a national model for schools everywhere.”
Specific needs to help students achieve success were displayed on every table. They ranged from connecting students with internships, job shadows and industry credentials in District 214’s Career Pathways program; to helping students in the fine arts afford instruments, art supplies and performance opportunities.
Dr. Lazaro Lopez believes that providing fine arts equipment helps students succeed.
Another goal was to raise money for student wellness, including getting mental health services and basic needs, such as establishing a food pantry at every school.
While Lopez in his first year as executive director, he brings a wealth of experience in working with students, consequently he knows their needs. He began his career as an English teacher at Hersey High School and went on to serve as Principal of Wheeling High School.
As Associate Superintendent for Teaching and Learning, he created the Career Pathways model in District 214 and led the Illinois Community College Board as its longest-serving Chair from 2015 to 2025. Finally, as the son of Cuban immigrants and the first in his family to go to college, he understands what students need to succeed.
“The Education Foundation opens doors for our students and creates life-changing opportunities,” he says simply.
Among the many guests were (L-R) Amy Philpott, Chris Nisbet, Bob and Michelle Gamelgaard, and Lisa and Colin Gilbert.
The Education Foundation has been around for more than 35 years. When it was formed in 1988, its mission was to support District 214 Community Education, but in recent years its focus has shifted.
Students are the top priority in Northwest High School District 214, and together with the help of the District 214 Education Foundation, and its many donors and grants, the district is able to help all students, but especially the immediate needs of those that come from families facing financial hardship.
“The work of the Foundation is essential,” Lopez says. “It’s one way we can ensure each student and family is seen and supported when they need it most.”
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