The North Palos Dist. 117 is gearing up for changes in leadership as Dr. Jeannie Stachowiak, the current district superintendent, is set to retire at the end of this school year. The next board will appoint a new district superintendent to take over her responsibilities.
In addition to the change in leadership, the board will also consider introducing full-day kindergarten to their curriculum. This could potentially have significant benefits for students and parents alike.
Meanwhile, a special election is being held for two unexpired 2-year terms on the school board. Ten candidates are running for these positions in Illinois’ second and third consecutive election cycles.
Incumbent candidates Tom Kostas, Debbie Chafee, Lauren Potokar (all from Hickory Hills), and Bobby Greene (from Palos Hills) are running again alongside challenger John Gawel who is seeking his first term on Dist 117's school board.
Both Potokar and Gawel expressed their commitment towards protecting and providing for children’s education needs in their respective campaigns.
Five of ten remaining candidates responded to Patch candidate questionnaire including Eileen Kerlin Walsh, Dan Casey, Tracy Sullivan, Adam Downs and Yusuf Vidal while Carl R.Kunz,Aseal Tineh,Brian O'Neil,Joesph H.Zotto,and David W.Shipyor were among other contenders listed on ballot paper.
The election is scheduled on Tuesday April 4th &5th with severe weather conditions predicted later that day.The race originally started with eleven candidates but Tiffany Robinson was appointed earlier this year after filling a vacant position back in January.
As North Palos District prepares itself for new leadership under a yet-to-be-announced superintendent candidate,the upcoming special election has already grabbed headlines due to its competitive field of ten hopefuls vying for just two openings. With many students and parents eagerly anticipating the results of both changes, it looks like it will be an interesting time ahead for North Palos District.