Elaine Perillo has served U-High for many years as a substitute teacher, parent, booster, volunteer costume designer for theatre and madrigals, an assistant director, stage-hand, chaperone, and anything else that was needed.  U-High will greatly miss Elaine, who retired in 2002 and relocated to Tucson, Arizona with her husband Ralph.

Elaine’s work with the stage productions at U-High was tireless and selfless.  She donated countless hours of time assisting with design, construction and alteration of costumes.  Often she coordinated over ten student assistants in creating costumes for casts as large as 55, resulting in more than one hundred different costumes and accessories.  Elaine also made costumes for U-High Madrigal and Court Singers, as well as helping with gathering or making props as needed for each performance. 

Elaine served for several years as a chaperone for students attending the Illinois High School Theatre Festival—a three day event in the dead of winter.  Due to festival rules about ratio of students to chaperones, Elaine’s voluntary service enabled a larger number of students to attend than would have otherwise been possible.

As a substitute teacher, Elaine went the extra mile.   If the absence were planned, Elaine would prepare a lesson rather than merely supervise.  If the absence were unexpected, she would leave detailed notes on what was covered, and what might need further emphasis.

Elaine was also a parent of three U-High students, Chris, Carey and Mike.  Two are teachers and the third is serving as a substitute.  Elaine was a very active parent, but much to her credit, remained as much if not more active after her children graduated.

For her many years of tireless dedication, there is no doubt that Elaine Perillo is truly a “Friend of U-High.”