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Park Ridge students recognize teachers with 'Maine South Finest Project'
How do you show appreciation to a favorite teacher? At Maine South in Park Ridge, a group of students has come up with a fun and surprising way to say thanks.
PARK RIDGE, Ill. - It’s becoming a new tradition at one northwest suburban high school. Students noisily barge into a classroom— to say thank you.
It’s part of an effort organized by a number of students to recognize teachers who are making a difference in their lives.
FOX 32 Chicago watched on Tuesday as a group of students gathered in a hallway at Park Ridge's Maine South High School, planning a sneak attack on a teacher. With members of the marching band and a megaphone, they burst into a classroom to say thank you.
Those involved are members of the Maine South Finest Project, a loose confederation of students who gather once a month to show their appreciation to a handful of teachers by presenting them posters as a way of saying thanks.
"This is amazing! This is the best," said World Languages teacher Tona Costello, moments after her surprise. "This is really touching. Thank you."
Peter Nilsen, a Maine South math teacher, agreed.
"It is very meaningful from students. That means the most for sure."
Gaetano Lanotta, who is a senior at the school, is the founder and ringleader of the Maine South Finest Project. Gaetano said he started it more than a year ago when students returned from Covid remote learning.
"I think my favorite thing about the ceremonies is seeing all the different reactions. Some teachers are shocked, and they don’t know what to say. Some are almost crying, and it makes me feel like what we’re doing is good. Makes everyone happy."
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Dylan Sarsany is a Maine South junior who joined the effort last year.
"That’s why we do it. We want to make sure the teachers who are the finest, if you will, are being honored and supported, for all that they do at Maine South."
English Teacher Paul Bellisario said the honor is especially meaningful because it comes from students.
"They’re what it’s all about. And to have them honor you, makes me feel special. I’m happy. Thank you."
So far, the group has honored almost 30 teachers this year — and although Gaetano will be graduating in just a couple months, he’s hoping others will carry on the tradition.
"(Teachers) don’t really get the recognition they deserve," Gaetano said. "But when you have something fun and colorful, something that showcases their personality, when you put it together, people pay attention."