Press Release: 04-10-2012

Waukegan Public Schools educator Ms. Shirley Snyder will be presented with the prestigious Horace Mann- Abraham Lincoln Fellowship during a special ceremony on Tuesday, April 17.

Ms. Snyder, a 12-year Reading Specialist at Lyon Magnet School, is one of 50 educators from across the country selected to participate in the Abraham Lincoln-centric institute this summer in Springfield. She was selected based on her 100-word essay that focused on the former president, and how she would like to enhance her students’ knowledge and interest in history.

Ms. Snyder’s interest in Abraham Lincoln dates back to her childhood trips to Springfield, where she soaked up information about the 16th president. It continues today through reading lessons with students, and additional trips. Next month, she will accompany Lyon fourth graders on a day trip of Springfield.

“I was so excited to find out I was selected for the Fellowship,” said Ms. Snyder. “I really want to make lessons even more effective to students, by exploring these different experiences.”

As a fellowship participant, Ms. Snyder will get behind-the-scenes knowledge of the library and museum and enjoy visits to other historical sites -- New Salem, Lincoln's home, Lincoln's tomb, and the Old State Capitol. Fellows will also hear from experts on Lincoln's life and the Civil War era. Past topics have included a look at Lincoln the lawyer, Lincoln as president, political cartoons in the classroom, Civil War medical practices, and "Ghosts of the Library."

In recognition of her selection, representatives from Horace Mann Insurance will honor Ms. Snyder during the April 17 Board of Education meeting. The meeting begins at 7 p.m. in the Lincoln Center Board Room, 1201 N. Sheridan Road, Waukegan.

Email Contact: nalajakis@wps60.org