With the rising cost of education many school districts are forced to turn to alternate sources of funding for their special instructional programs and extracurricular activities.

For Winfield School District 34 one such commodity is Lisa Marie Vogt and the Parent Teacher Organization.

At 40-something, Lisa Vogt is a busy mother of two school-aged children, and a position as church secretary — and yet she still finds time to captain this valuable institution.

As with most other parents, Vogt joined the organization as soon as her first child entered the school system. She was active as a standing member of the organization but after three years decided she could do so much more for the community as president.

“I had to get more involved. This is such an excellent opportunity to touch our children’s lives in a positive way,” Vogt said. “I felt I had a handle on the yearly schedule. I also knew that if I had questions or needed help that support was available. Everyone on the PTO board is awesome — we all support each other.”

Principal Patti Palagi said Vogt has an incredible knack when it comes to heading up the organization.

“I’ve been working with Lisa Vogt since I became principal two years ago. She’s outstanding. Her enthusiasm and commitment is never- ending. She’s top notch.”
Vogt has a keen interest in the culinary arts and she displays this passion in several different ways. One way is by providing snacks for the monthly meetings.

The most coveted treat is her own special blend of popcorn. However, this edible talent shines brightest during one of the group’s most successful fundraising events, an annual chili festival.

“The chili fest is awesome. We hold a contest and grant an award for the best recipe. It’s always a hit and it is also the one affair that actually brings the men out in full force. Besides the chili — and more important — is a silent auction that we host with items donated by local businesses. It’s very successful,” Vogt said.

Last year’s event was successful to the tune of raising more than $8,000. Proceeds are put to good use funding a gaggle of beneficial projects such as the rental of school buses for field trips, family movie nights and specialized reading programs.

“I wouldn’t mind seeing that chili fest go down again,” Palagi said. “It was definitely the most successful event where fundraising is concerned.”

Vogt was born and raised in Downers Grove but her heart now belongs to Winfield.

“I love this community as well as the people who call this village home. We have no plans for leaving anytime soon.”