Mundelein teen to join state's Student Advisory Council

MUNDELEIN -- Daniel Lopez was 10 when his family emigrated from Colombia. Now 16, he said he is trying to take advantage of educational opportunities available to him.

"I believe in education -- I think it's important. Being from Colombia, I know how important education is. I'm so glad to be in this country," Lopez said.

Lopez was one of 16 students statewide selected for the Student Advisory Council, a group of students who will offer insights to the Illinois State Board of Education.

"I think ultimately it gives me a chance to make a change how I believe things should be run in the school system. I am very excited to be in such a group," Lopez said.

Right now, SAC is discussing how to reduce high school dropout rates, Lopez said. He estimated that about 18,000 students a week drop out of school.

"I'm very passionate about school dropout ... I personally feel I should try to help reduce the amount of dropouts," Lopez said.

SAC members may review and critique the ISBE programs, policies and regulations in addition to discussing education issues. The council was formed in 1975 to bring student concerns to the ISBE.

The 16 members were selected to represent different parts of the state, types of school settings and ethnic backgrounds.

"The young men and women who serve on the Student Advisory Council represent our future leaders," State Superintendent of Education Christopher Koch said in a press release. "Their experience and insight provide our board with an invaluable perspective."

SAC is just one of Lopez's extracurricular activities. He also plays soccer, volleyball, is a member of the National Honor Society and participates in mock trial.

He is also a part of a peer jury, which helps teens who have been arrested get their lives back on track. The peer jury meets monthly at the Mundelein police station.

"I really want to create a better community for my kids and future generations," Lopez said.

The fact that Lopez wants to be a lawyer was an attractive point to Assistant Principal James Ongtengco, who nominated him for SAC.

"Daniel is an outstanding student ... He's a leader here at Mundelein High School. He's passionate about doing the right things for our students," Ongtengco said.