On the campaign trail, during his inauguration speech and at presentations since taking office, Mayor Irvin has made it clear that education in Aurora will be a hallmark of his administration.
From plans to establish the new Aurora Education Commission and Aurora Student Advisory Council to discussions about ways to enhance STEM educational opportunities in Aurora, Mayor Irvin has made it a priority to connect with the educational community prior to the conclusion of the current school year.
During his first week of office, the Mayor spoke to a crowd of more than 1,000 middle school students participating in the 23rd annual Sports Festival and met with students at the Illinois Math and Science Academy as he toured the campus and the new N2 Center for Innovation and Inquiry.
"One of my favorite things to do is to meet with our youth," said Irvin. "That was once me sitting in these very schools and participating in similar programs right here in Aurora. I want them to know that they matter and we’re here for them and listening to them."
He continued into his second week by speaking with students at Metea Valley High School who were excited to learn about the new Aurora Student Advisory Council which will be implemented next school year.
"The Aurora Student Advisory Council will be comprised of students from Aurora’s secondary schools and college campuses," said Irvin to the applause from the Metea students in attendance. "You will have a voice in what happens because this is your city, too."
Mayor Irvin also visited McCleery Elementary School where he surprised two students with bicycles for participating in his Read for Rides program that he started more than five years ago in collaboration with the Aurora Keystone Lodge #15.
And this week, even as most schools are in the final stages of the academic year, the Mayor met with principals and students at East Aurora, West Aurora and Waubonsie Valley High Schools.
"This is an exciting opportunity for East High to bring back a Tomcat alum who now sits in the Mayor’s office," said East Aurora principal Marina Kosak.
He’ll also make stops to read with students at various schools and distribute more bicycles at Beaupre Elementary School to students who participated in the Read for Rides program this year.
In early June, Mayor Irvin will return to Simmons Middle School, his alma mater, to speak at the 8th grade Promotion Ceremony.
During the summer, the Mayor and his team will lay the groundwork for the Aurora Education Commission, meet with local school leaders and utilize the findings and recommendations of his transition team’s education committee on ways to improve the academic position in the City of Aurora.