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The District 202 CAPE parent organization held its 49th annual awards ceremony on April 15, 2025, at Plainfield North High School. During the event, a total of 95 parents, community members, teachers, and staff were honored for their contributions to students, schools, and the community.
CAPE, which stands for the Coordination of Administration and Parent groups for Educational efficiency, functions as a connection between district leadership and parent groups within all 31 District 202 schools.
Lana Howe, founder and president of Bags of Hope, received the 2025 CAPE Community Award. Since the organization’s founding in 2016, Howe has significantly impacted food security for students in District 202 and beyond.
Barbara Seiden, the vice president of the District 202 Board of Education, was awarded the 2025 CAPE Lifetime Contributor award. Seiden has been an active participant in education both through her role on the board and her involvement in her children's schools. Additionally, she has served as a substitute teacher, is a board member with Conservation Plainfield, and volunteers at the Plainfield Area Interfaith Food Pantry.
The ceremony also recognized numerous individuals with school-level awards, acknowledging their commitment and service.
Overall award recipients included:
- Community Award Winner: Lana Howe
- CAPE Lifetime Contributor Award Winner: Barbara Seiden
Incorporating a wide array of categories, awards were also given at the individual school level for Teacher of the Year, Support Staff of the Year, and Volunteer of the Year, covering elementary, middle, and high schools across the district.
