By Science & Arts Academy
 | On Saturday, March 18, the SAA community gathered for our Annual Benefit for a night of celebration at PInstripes in Northbrook. The proceeds from the event help support the SAA Scholarship Fund. During the evening, we had the opportunity to pay tribute to the 2023 Blue Horizon Award honoree, presented to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and unwavering support to SAA. This year, we are proud to recognize Phyllis Burks for her unwavering support and commitment to the school's mission and core values. |
Phyllis’s journey with SAA began in 1998, when she enrolled her son Andy in the preschool program. Three years later, SAA had an opening for the receptionist role and she gladly applied. Soon after, she joined the staff under Head of School Dr. Mary Christensen. Later she was able to become part of the Business Office, her area of expertise. Phyllis brought her background in banking and personnel, and the knowledge of being a parent of a gifted child to the School and its community. She attended school and earned her accounting associate certificate from Oakton Community College, all while managing parent and work responsibilities.
Between learning about education and gifted children and the business side of the school, Phyllis is grateful for the experience and opportunities that working at SAA has provided. She loves being a part of the SAA community where she was able to work with people whose calling and passion is an integral part of their daily lives. She is a steadfast supporter of the school, and provides a strong backbone for a mission driven experience for our faculty and staff. "Every child remembers that one person who showed compassion when they were young. I would like to be remembered by parents and students as someone who really cares."
Phyllis has loved Girl Scouting since she was a Scout herself in grade school, and has continued to pursue her passion for Girl Scouting as a leader for countless troops at SAA and in the community. She was the founding faculty advisor seven years ago, when the first group of SAA students formed an official troop. The SAA Girl Scout program has grown from less than fifteen to a large group of multiple levels and ranks thanks to Phyllis’s continued support. She also participates in the greater community Girl Scout leadership, attending summits and meetings.
Phyllis retired earlier this year and will be greatly missed by her former colleagues and SAA families. Her decades at the school led to so many relationships with wonderful coworkers, parents and students.
Between learning about education and gifted children and the business side of the school, Phyllis is grateful for the experience and opportunities that working at SAA has provided. She loves being a part of the SAA community where she was able to work with people whose calling and passion is an integral part of their daily lives. She is a steadfast supporter of the school, and provides a strong backbone for a mission driven experience for our faculty and staff. "Every child remembers that one person who showed compassion when they were young. I would like to be remembered by parents and students as someone who really cares."
Phyllis has loved Girl Scouting since she was a Scout herself in grade school, and has continued to pursue her passion for Girl Scouting as a leader for countless troops at SAA and in the community. She was the founding faculty advisor seven years ago, when the first group of SAA students formed an official troop. The SAA Girl Scout program has grown from less than fifteen to a large group of multiple levels and ranks thanks to Phyllis’s continued support. She also participates in the greater community Girl Scout leadership, attending summits and meetings.
Phyllis retired earlier this year and will be greatly missed by her former colleagues and SAA families. Her decades at the school led to so many relationships with wonderful coworkers, parents and students.
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