The Greater Joliet Area YMCA’s Teen Achievers program received the Superintendent’s Medallion at the annual Joliet Township High School Salute to Service Partnership Event. JTHS Superintendent Dr. Cheryl McCarthy presented the prestigious award to the Y’s Teen and Young Adult Advancement Leadership Team who collectively coordinate and oversee the program.

The Superintendent’s Medallion is Joliet Township High School’s highest honor awarded for extensive service, dedication and/or financial contributions. It is bestowed upon individuals or groups that go above and beyond in service and support of JTHS students, staff and District 204 stakeholders.

Teen Achievers is an academic program that provides students with inspiration and guidance in setting goals to graduate from high school, gain entry into college, and ultimately achieve successful entry into a career of their choosing. Through a partnership with JTHS, the program is offered to Joliet Central and Joliet West High Schools. (The program recently expanded into Plainfield South High School.) Since 2005, 93 percent of the graduating seniors in the program has advanced to institutions of higher learning.

Pictured above, from left to right: TAYAA Advisory Council Members Troy Cicero and Tracy Spesia, TAYAA Executive Director Maurice Fears, TAYAA Advisory Council Members Dr. Saundra Russell-Smith and Shayla Smith, and Joliet Township High School Superintendent Dr. Cheryl McCarthy.