Continuing a cherished tradition of supporting educational growth, the Rotary Club of Park Ridge and the Hendee Family have awarded the 2026 Hendee Scholarship to three outstanding District 64 teachers. This year's recipients are Allison Walsh, Chloe Guerra, and Rachel Manchur, who were recognized at the Rotary Club's May meeting for their dedication to professional development and student success.
Each educator will also receive a $1,000 scholarship to fund advanced coursework and certifications.
“We're very honored that we get to carry on the Hendee name, both with this award and then with the Hendee boardroom that we have, and just a few other Hendee things," said Superintendent Dr. Ben Collins. "I think it's pretty regular that we either say his name, type his name, or somebody asks about the Hendee rooms at least once or twice a day, which, so just a nice way to kind of make sure that we're remembering him.”
The Hendee Scholarship is presented annually in memory of Dr. Raymond E. Hendee, who served as District 64 Superintendent from 1970 to 1990. Dr. Hendee was a lifelong advocate for children and a firm believer in the power of continuing education for teachers.
Mark Hendee, Dr. Hendee's son, added that his father "loved people" and "loved children," and would have been deeply flattered to see his legacy supporting the next generation of educators.
Meet the 2026 Hendee Scholars
Allison Walsh - Kindergarten Teacher, Franklin Elementary
Walsh is pursuing a Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction at Concordia University. Her goal is to deepen her understanding of how the curriculum supports the academic and emotional needs of her youngest learners.
Chloe Guerra - Music Teacher, Franklin, Carpenter, and Washington Elementary
Guerra is starting her graduate degree in Music Education, focusing on adapting instruction for students with disabilities. Her coursework will support the soft launch of adaptive music programs for students in the Functional Life Skills and HOPE programs.
Rachel Manchur - Music Teacher, Washington Elementary
Manchur is enrolling in specialized coursework at VanderCook College of Music focused on teaching music to students with Autism. In the coming school year, Rachel will lead three new sections of self-contained Structured Learning Community (SLC) music classes.
By investing in these teachers, the Hendee Scholarship ensures that D64 remains at the forefront of inclusive and intentional instruction. Whether it is refining kindergarten curriculum or pioneering adaptive music programs, these educators are committed to meeting the diverse needs of every student in the district.
Photos from the Hendee Awards Rotary Lunch