Nora C. Waliczek, Homer Glen
Age:
67
Writing letters since:
1972 or 1973 (Approximately 10 published in Tribune)
Life story in 50 words or less:
Born in McKinley Park, where she lived for 30 years. Graduated from St. Mary of Perpetual Help High School and then attended Moraine Valley Community College. A mother of two sons and grandmother to four grandsons (“No girls!”). Married 43 years. Retired paraeducator (teacher’s assistant).
Self-description:
Above all, she identifies herself as a person of faith. “It has been very important and has helped me through many difficulties.” She has been a catechist for 26 years: 25 years at St. Fabian in Bridgeview and currently at St. Bernard in Homer Glen. She is community-minded and maternalistic, having worked with children for most of her life.
Writing experiences:
Though she can’t remember exactly what prompted her to start writing, she assumes it was some sort of school assignment. She doesn’t wake up knowing she is going to write a letter that day but writes when something comes to her. “It just happens.” Eighty-five percent of the time she writes, it is regarding something she sees in the paper. Her specialties are current issues, such as Medicare or the length of school days. “I think things should be better than they are.” She wants people to consider all aspects of an issue rather than being blinded by their viewpoints alone. She also tries to stress the importance of being proactive rather than reactive. “People don’t want to correct a situation until real problems come up.”
Unique trait:
She has been instrumental in the passage of three Illinois laws regarding the well-being of children. The first moved up the cutoff date for children entering kindergarten from December to September. The second dictated that if there is a safety hazard involved in walking to school, a bus should be made available even if a child lives close to school. The third mandated a vision test for all students when they receive their initial school screenings.
—
By Dan Waters, Tribune reporter
Waliczek’s latest thoughts:
Children are our greatest asset, most important commodity, hope for the future. These are fine sentiments. Unfortunately, so often these are just words.
As a school bus driver, I experienced that many times the children’s safety was not the priority; rather, money was.
As a paraeducator, I witnessed so many demands being made that a teacher couldn’t possibly do them all, much less teach the basics.
As a PTA president and member, I could barely get attention for legislation, but there was plenty for bake sales. Most PTAs were only interested in their individual school. They cannot see past their own horizon. They did not want any of their money to go to the state or national PTA to make a difference for many more children. I feel that is why so many schools have changed to PTOs.
As parent-education chairman, I ran workshops for parents. Each grade level presented the curriculum and ways that parents could enhance their children’s learning experiences. Parents could attend two workshops. Free child care was provided.
This is mentioned because the district and state PTA newsletters reported on the workshops so other schools could share in the idea.
I am a strong supporter of PTA because it can be so effective in making improvements for all the children in this country.
It seems like what is important in our country equates with money. Sports figures are important; they are highly paid. Jobs related to children are usually low-paid.
I believe in the following words to live by: Love God, love one another (not that I am perfect). If you don’t believe in God, then you might try these words: Treat others as you would like to be treated.
What a beautiful world this could be.
Peace, love and joy.
