02/15/2008 - An Open Letter of Support for the Northern Illinois University Community/Memorial Fund
Dear Dr. Peters –
On behalf of the Board of Education, Superintendent Beilfuss, administrators, staff, and students of DeKalb School District 428, please know that we extend our prayers, and our support, to the Northern Illinois University community. Our sympathies go out to the families directly and indirectly affected by the events of yesterday.
It is nearly unimaginable that yet another campus tragedy has struck so close to home. As you are aware, many people in our school district have direct connections with the university. Citizens across our wonderful nation have donned NIU red and black today, and our local students and staff wish to do the same in support of NIU this weekend.
Saturday evening is the Sycamore/DeKalb basketball game at DeKalb High School. All attendees are being asked to wear red and black in memory of those who lost their lives, in honor of those who survived, and in support of those who have been affected by these events. While many students have already left campus to be with their families, many others may not be able to do so this weekend, especially foreign students.
Just a few short weeks ago, the annual Castle Challenge brought thousands of community members to the Convocation Center in a wonderful display of community spirit and support for local athletics. Now, these schools and communities would like to reach out to students of Northern Illinois University. With this thought in mind, DeKalb and Sycamore High Schools wish to extend an invitation to any Northern Illinois University student that would like to attend, free admission to the basketball game. The sophomore game begins at 4:30 p.m., followed by the varsity game at 6:00 p.m. DeKalb High School is located at 1515 S. 4th St., DeKalb just about one mile from campus.
In difficult and challenging times, we often benefit from gathering with others. DeKalb Community Unit School District 428 believes in the value of community and family. We open our arms and extend this invitation to our Northern Illinois University family.
In support,
The Board of Education, DeKalb Community Unit School District 428
Staff and Students
The DeKalb Chamber of Commerce has initiated a memorial fund on behalf of the victims of the incident at Northern Illinois University on Thursday, February 14, 2008. Contributions may be made at the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce office at: 164 E. Lincoln Highway, DeKalb; or any American National Bank & Trust of DeKalb County branch. Checks should be made payable to: Chamber NIU Memorial Fund.
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