Eric Loema
President
My name is Eric Loema, and my number one priority is being a dad and focusing on my daughter’s health, well-being, and growth. Professionally, I am a sales and business manager for a historic restoration company with a background in architecture, marketing, coordinating, logistics, and more. Over the past 25 yrs, I have ascended the company ladder to be as successful as I am today. I love to help others and be involved with the community, which is exactly why I decided to become the HMS president. I was president of Olson Park Elementary last year and feel that was a great learning and growth experience for me.
For the 24-25 school year, we have a wonderful PTO Board, all of whom are highly motivated, eager to put forth the time for the school, and great communicators. Together, our team aspires to accomplish several goals throughout this school year to better help our school and the Harlem School District. These goals include fun and unique events for students, parents, and staff as well as raise funds to better support the teachers and staff at HMS.
FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE PTO: Being an active leader within my community and being able to give back to others who need our help.
FAVORITE THINGS TO DO OTHER THAN THE PTO: travel, boating, attend events, hockey, cooking
Rebecca De La Luz
Vice President
My name is Rebecca De La Luz and I am a mother of three, the most rewarding part of my life. As a family we like to travel, volunteer, and support each other in our many sports teams. My background is in childcare and community. I enjoy helping and have tried to make an impact within the Winnebago/Boone County community by being involved with organizations such as Carpenters Place, Hope Reaching Out, Rockford Crisis Nursery, and Golden Apple Foundation, to name a few.
I’m a very outgoing and determined person and when I set my mind on an idea or goal, I find it very hard to stop until I achieve it. This will be my oldest son’s first year in middle school, and I want to make sure I’m doing everything in my power to help the process. This year I am also President at Olson Park Elementary and I am very excited to make a difference within the Harlem District community.
FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE PTO: Organizing new and creative ideas for students and staff, meeting staff and other parents.
FAVORITE THINGS TO DO OTHER THAN THE PTO: volunteering, exploring new places, volleyball, sports events with family, spending quality time with, family
Jennifer Shelby
Treasurer
My name is Jennifer Shelby and I have enjoyed living in the Harlem community for my entire life and graduated from Harlem HS in 1993. I am a mom of four, with my youngest son entering 6th grade. Attending Harlem District as a student and now as a parent, I have a strong connection and commitment to our school and community. I look forward to returning to HMS to support our students and help enhance their middle school experience.
My professional background is in accounting and project management and last year I was the President of Loves Park Elementary’s PTO. I am excited to help raise funds for school enhancements and plan events and trips that bring joy to our students!
FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE PTO: Organizing and planning fun events and field trips for the students and meeting parents
FAVORITE THINGS TO DO OTHER THAN THE PTO: gardening, kayaking, puzzles, walking my dog, playing Rummikub and Stardew Valley