Download as pdf or txt
Download as pdf or txt
You are on page 1of 74

LYONS TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL

District 204
April 23, 2024

VIA ELECTRONIC MAIL


David Giuliani

Re: Freedom of Information Act Request

Mr. Giuliani:

On April 19, 2023, Lyons Township High School District 204 (the “District”) received a Freedom of
Information Act request from you. Your request and the District’s responses are provided below:

Request:
I am seeking the applications and other information submitted by applicants for the vacant school board
position.

Response: Enclosed please find records responsive to your request. Exempt information has been redacted
from the records pursuant to 5 ILCS 140/7(1)(b)(private information), 5 ILCS 140/7(1)(c) (personal
information), and 5 ILCS 140/7.5(r) (information prohibited from begin disclosed pursuant to the Illinois
School Student Records Act).

You have the right to have the denials reviewed by the Public Access Counselor (PAC) at the Office of the
Illinois Attorney General. 5 ILCS 140/9.5(a). You can file your Request for Review with the PAC by writing
to: Public Access Counselor, Office of the Attorney General, 500 South 2nd Street Springfield, Illinois
62701, Fax: 217-782-1396, E-mail: public.access@ilag.gov, Phone: 877-299-3642. If you choose to file a
Request for Review with the PAC, you must do so within 60 calendar days after the date of the denial letter.
5 ILCS 140/9.5(a). Please note that you must include a copy of your original request for documents and the
denial letter when filing a Request for Review with the PAC. You also have the right to seek judicial review
of your denial by filing a lawsuit in the State circuit court. 5 ILCS 140/11.

Sincerely,

Mary Lin Muscolino


Mary Lin Muscolino
Freedom of Information Act Officer
4/19/24, 7:03 AM Lyons Township High School District 204 - Board of Education Candidate Information Packet 2024

What do you think are the biggest challenges facing the District in the next five years? *

I believe building community relations and trust between the Board and District residents should be an
immediate goal for the Board. This should include open and transparent operations. Looking beyond
immediate challenges, I think the Board will be faced with challenges related to the continued evolution of
technology and artificial intelligence (A.I.) and how it may impact the District both positively and negatively.
Social media usage by young people is and will continue to pose a challenge for residents of the District and
the school. Along these same veins, technology and student safety will also be an ongoing challenge for the
District.
I believe there will continue to be a need to increase the number of qualified and experience teachers,
especially as the teacher shortage in Illinois is ongoing. I also believe conversations around diversity, equity
and inclusion will continue to be necessary as the District continues to provide every student an equal
chance to succeed.

Describe your community and/or District 204 involvement, including activities and committees *

Currently I am involved in the community by volunteering at the Share Food Share Love food pantry in
Brookfield, which serves many residents of the District. I frequently attend community events and support
local businesses.

What unique qualities/experience do you have that would make you a good Board Member? *

As a former student, I have a deep personal connection and commitment to the success of the District
Aside from this commitment, my experiences with the Illinois State Senate, local governments and as an
adjunct professor at a community college provide me with the unique advantage of understanding how
government operates, how to best formulate policies and how to engage stakeholders along the way
Further, as an attorney I am a zealous advocate and a skillful negotiator Lastly, as a 30 something year old, I
can bring a different generational view to issues impacting the District

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1pkCvQAfNYWD1gIkXBEHCZJdu2VKcMCiNiHct2mAsHl8/edit?pli=1#response=ACYDBNhdAS8-lW8DwNTjSmN33c… 5/7
4/19/24, 7:03 AM Lyons Township High School District 204 - Board of Education Candidate Information Packet 2024

I (sign your name below and date), do hereby declare myself as an applicant for appointment to *
the Board of Education of District 204, County of Cook. I am a registered voter, have resided in
the district for at least one year and meet the age requirement. If selected, I will serve the
children of the district to the best of my ability.

Ashley Stead

This form was created inside of Lyons Township HSD204.

Forms

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1pkCvQAfNYWD1gIkXBEHCZJdu2VKcMCiNiHct2mAsHl8/edit?pli=1#response=ACYDBNhdAS8-lW8DwNTjSmN33c… 7/7
4/19/24, 7:02 AM Lyons Township High School District 204 - Board of Education Candidate Information Packet 2024

If you answered yes to the question above, please explain.

I (sign your name below and date), do hereby declare myself as an applicant for appointment to *
the Board of Education of District 204, County of Cook I am a registered voter, have resided in
the district for at least one year and meet the age requirement If selected, I will serve the
children of the district to the best of my ability

Avigail Isabelle Schlosser

This form was created inside of Lyons Township HSD204

Forms

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1pkCvQAfNYWD1gIkXBEHCZJdu2VKcMCiNiHct2mAsHl8/edit?pli=1#response=ACYDBNjAz2KAcEJ7pjMVD1qdrHL… 6/6
4/19/24, 7:04 AM Lyons Township High School District 204 - Board of Education Candidate Information Packet 2024

Describe your community and/or District 204 involvement, including activities and committees *

Fall 2023 to Present: Member of the LTCAC


2013 – 2021 – LaGrange District 105 Board of Education President
2012 - 2017 - LaGrange District 105 Enrollment Committee
2011 – 2013 – LaGrange District 105 Board of Education Vice President
2009 – 2011 – LaGrange District 105 Board of Education Member
2009 - 2012 – LaGrange District 105 Construction Committee
2009 – 2021 – LaGrange District 105 Finance Committee
LaGrange District 105 Strategic Plan Committee
2021 to Present - First Presbyterian Church of LaGrange Ruling Elder and Clerk of Session
2011-2019 - First Presbyterian Church of LaGrange Youth Committee Chair
2013- 2019 First Presbyterian Church of LaGrange Ruling Elder
Seventh Avenue PTO President (2008-2009)
Seventh Avenue PTO Treasurer (2007)

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1pkCvQAfNYWD1gIkXBEHCZJdu2VKcMCiNiHct2mAsHl8/edit?pli=1#response=ACYDBNjd4xoOot_ErlWDqY0zMtb4… 5/8
4/19/24, 7:04 AM Lyons Township High School District 204 - Board of Education Candidate Information Packet 2024

What unique qualities/experience do you have that would make you a good Board Member? *

With the support of La Grange District 105 and its passionate constituents, the following was achieved
during my tenure on the LaGrange District 105 Board:
• Yearly increase in student performance with La Grange District 105 students scheduled into accelerated
classes at Lyons Township High School
• Yearly increase in student performance with La Grange District 105 students scheduled into accelerated
classes at Lyons Township High School
• La Grange District 105 outperformed students from suburban districts with a similar demographic
profile in math and reading achievement
• Three of the four elementary schools won National Blue-Ribbon awards for achieving superior
standards of academic excellence
• La Grange District 105 consistently earned the top state rating for its financial position
• Significant facility improvements within budget at all five district schools
• Development and implementation of two strategic plans
• Successfully renegotiated multiple contracts with teacher and support staff unions that benefited staff
while staying within the district’s financial budget
• Developed a strong relationship with staff and union leadership, ensured they were partners in
education goals and strong fiscal management
• Successfully renegotiated the districts debt structure to minimize the financial impact on the taxpayers
and the need for a referendum
• Implementation of full-day kindergarten
• Successfully navigated the COVID-19 pandemic impact by:
o Implementing hybrid in-person and remote teaching models that allowed the district flexibility to
increase in-person learning opportunities
o Reinventing a safe and effective learning environment for students, teachers, administrators, and
support staff
o Remained committed to social and emotional support and change throughout our entire La Grange
District 105 community
o Established a medical committee that helped set baselines and parameters for COVID-19 infection
rates. The state picked up La Grange District 105 models as their guidelines for keeping schools open.

Throughout my adult life, my extracurricular activities have been focused around and working with our
communities youth. My involvement in coaching youth sports and my 9 years as a High School Youth group
leader in my church was driven by my desire to mentor and help improve the lives of children. During my 12
years on the District 105 School Board my focus was child centric, wanting to find the best ways we could
help improve the learning and social and emotional environments for children. Each and every decision
made was focused around what was best for children.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1pkCvQAfNYWD1gIkXBEHCZJdu2VKcMCiNiHct2mAsHl8/edit?pli=1#response=ACYDBNjd4xoOot_ErlWDqY0zMtb4… 6/8
4/19/24, 7:04 AM Lyons Township High School District 204 - Board of Education Candidate Information Packet 2024

I (sign your name below and date), do hereby declare myself as an applicant for appointment to *
the Board of Education of District 204, County of Cook. I am a registered voter, have resided in
the district for at least one year and meet the age requirement. If selected, I will serve the
children of the district to the best of my ability.

David Herndon

This form was created inside of Lyons Township HSD204.

Forms

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1pkCvQAfNYWD1gIkXBEHCZJdu2VKcMCiNiHct2mAsHl8/edit?pli=1#response=ACYDBNjd4xoOot_ErlWDqY0zMtb4… 8/8
4/19/24, 7:02 AM Lyons Township High School District 204 - Board of Education Candidate Information Packet 2024

What do you think are the biggest challenges facing the District in the next five years? *

First and foremost, embracing Lyons Township's Strategic Plan is a testament to a shared commitment to
excellence, innovation, and empowerment. Together, we're shaping a future where every student can thrive
and fulfill their potential. Let's continue this journey with enthusiasm and optimism, knowing that collective
efforts will lead to positive outcomes for all.

The strategic plan for Lyons Township High School identifies several key challenges that the district may
face over the next five years:

Equity and Inclusion: Ensuring equitable access to resources, opportunities, and support for all students,
regardless of background or identity, will be crucial. Addressing disparities in achievement, discipline, and
participation will require ongoing efforts to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout the district.

Academic Excellence: Maintaining and enhancing academic standards and programs to meet the diverse
needs of students while also adapting to changes in educational best practices and standards will be a
significant challenge. The district will need to continue to innovate and evolve to provide a rigorous and
relevant curriculum that prepares students for success in higher education and beyond.

Social-Emotional Well-being: Supporting the mental health and well-being of students will be paramount,
especially in light of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Providing comprehensive support
services and fostering a positive school climate that promotes belonging and connectedness will be
essential.

Technology Integration: With rapid advancements in technology, integrating digital tools and resources
effectively into teaching and learning processes will be crucial. Ensuring equitable access to technology and
providing professional development opportunities for educators to effectively utilize digital tools will be
ongoing priorities.

Community Engagement and Partnerships: Strengthening partnerships with families, community


organizations, and local businesses to support student success and enhance educational opportunities will
be important. Building trust and collaboration among stakeholders will be key to addressing challenges and
fostering a sense of shared responsibility for student achievement.

Facilities and Infrastructure: Maintaining safe and conducive learning environments for students and staff is
essential. Addressing infrastructure needs, facility maintenance, and ensuring adequate resources for
capital improvements may be ongoing challenges for the district.

Financial Sustainability: Balancing budgetary constraints with the need to provide high-quality education
and support services can be challenging. Developing sustainable financial strategies, prioritizing resource
allocation, and seeking alternative funding sources may be critical for the district's long-term viability.

Addressing these challenges will require strategic planning, collaboration, and ongoing commitment from all
stakeholders to ensure the continued success and growth of Lyons Township High School.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1pkCvQAfNYWD1gIkXBEHCZJdu2VKcMCiNiHct2mAsHl8/edit?pli=1#response=ACYDBNgXLXwJKgySJSOdBhXd2… 5/9
4/19/24, 7:02 AM Lyons Township High School District 204 - Board of Education Candidate Information Packet 2024

Describe your community and/or District 204 involvement, including activities and committees *

My involvement in the community and District 204 reflects my deep commitment to fostering diversity,
equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. As a resident of Brookfield, I've actively participated in various
activities and committees, including:

1. Little League Baseball Volunteer: I served as a dedicated Little League baseball mom, supporting the
youth sports community in Brookfield.

2. Parent Aide at Congress Park and Park Jr High: Volunteering as a parent aide allowed me to contribute
directly to the educational experience of students at these schools.

3. Member of the Diversity Committee: I played a pivotal role as a member of the inaugural Diversity
Committee at Congress Park and Park Jr High, collaborating with neighboring schools to promote diversity
and inclusivity.

4. Member of LaGrange Diversity Committee and Indivisible Brookfield Committee: I furthered my


engagement in DEI efforts by actively participating in these committees, working towards fostering a more
inclusive community.

5. Participation in Lyons Township Diversity Events: Attending Lyons Township Diversity meetings and
events throughout the school year demonstrated my ongoing commitment to DEI initiatives within the
district.

6. Attendance at LaGrange Gatherings and Events: I regularly attended gatherings in LaGrange focused on
DEI, including special speakers, celebrations, and training events, furthering my understanding and
engagement in relevant topics.

Overall, my involvement in these activities and committees underscores my dedication to promoting


diversity, equity, and inclusion within both the local community of Brookfield and Lyons Township District
204.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1pkCvQAfNYWD1gIkXBEHCZJdu2VKcMCiNiHct2mAsHl8/edit?pli=1#response=ACYDBNgXLXwJKgySJSOdBhXd2… 6/9
4/19/24, 7:02 AM Lyons Township High School District 204 - Board of Education Candidate Information Packet 2024

What unique qualities/experience do you have that would make you a good Board Member? *

I have a diverse background in leadership, regulatory compliance, and paralegal support, I'm confident in my
ability to contribute effectively as a Board Member.

During my time as Assistant Director of Engagement & Culture at Illinois Tech, I spearheaded the
establishment of the Work Life and Engagement (WLE) committee, successfully overseeing multiple sub-
committees within the DEI office. I am particularly proud of my role in identifying and mitigating regulatory
risks, as well as my active involvement in the recruitment process and orchestration of monthly culture
awareness initiatives.

In my previous role as Coordinator of Regulatory Matters and Lease Administration Senior Paralegal at
Illinois Tech, I gained valuable experience in managing regulatory reporting requirements and overseeing
university rental property programs. My proficiency in developing and maintaining templates for scenario
analysis, proposals, and agreements, along with my ability to implement and manage tracking tools, has
allowed me to make
significant contributions to organizational effectiveness.

My paralegal experience further enhances my skill set, as I have successfully managed calendars,
conducted legal research, and facilitated efficient scheduling.

My educational background, including a Master of Policy Administration with a concentration in Public


Policy Administration from Illinois Institute of Technology, underscores my commitment to professional
development and excellence.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1pkCvQAfNYWD1gIkXBEHCZJdu2VKcMCiNiHct2mAsHl8/edit?pli=1#response=ACYDBNgXLXwJKgySJSOdBhXd2… 7/9
4/19/24, 7:02 AM Lyons Township High School District 204 - Board of Education Candidate Information Packet 2024

Define the role of the Board as you see it. What would your role be as a member? *

As a prospective member of the Board, my role would be to bring a diverse perspective that reflects the
demographic and cultural richness of our community. With my background as a minority woman and a
parent of graduates from Lyons Township High School, coupled with my experience in diversity, equity, and
inclusion (DEI), I believe I can offer valuable insights and advocate for the needs and concerns of
underrepresented groups.
Specifically, my role would involve:

1. Advocating for Equity and Inclusion: I would prioritize promoting equity and inclusion in all aspects of the
district's operations, policies, and decision-making processes. This includes advocating for resources and
support for marginalized students, addressing disparities in achievement and discipline, and fostering a
welcoming and inclusive school environment.

2. Providing Strategic Direction: Drawing on my professional and personal experiences, I would contribute to
setting strategic goals and priorities that align with the district's mission and values. This involves
collaborating with fellow board members, administrators, educators, and community stakeholders to
develop policies and initiatives that advance student success and well-being.

3. Ensuring Accountability and Transparency: I would uphold the principles of accountability and
transparency by actively engaging with the community, seeking feedback, and communicating openly about
the Board's decisions and actions. This includes ensuring that district resources are allocated effectively,
and that decisions are made in the best interest of all students and stakeholders.

4. Supporting Educational Excellence: I would support efforts to maintain high academic standards,
promote innovation in teaching and learning, and provide students with a well-rounded education that
prepares them for success in college, career, and life. This involves advocating for professional
development opportunities for educators, investing in technology and resources, and fostering a culture of
continuous improvement.

Overall, my role as a member of the Board would be to advocate for equity, excellence, and inclusivity, and to
work collaboratively with fellow board members and stakeholders to ensure that Lyons Township High
School continues to provide an equitable, resourceful, and high-quality education for all students.

Describe any other background qualifications or experiences that are related to school *
children/youth

I was a youth leader at my previous church in the city for 7 years. Currently, I am a youth mentor. I am
currently attending conference/training for working with youth and outreach along with professional
development courses.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1pkCvQAfNYWD1gIkXBEHCZJdu2VKcMCiNiHct2mAsHl8/edit?pli=1#response=ACYDBNgXLXwJKgySJSOdBhXd2… 8/9
DOMINITRICE “DEE” GONZALEZ
PROFESSIONAL RESUME

DIRECTOR EXPERIENCE
Assistant Director, Engagement & Culture – Illinois Tech
September 2022 – December 2024
• Led the establishment of the Work Life and Engagement (WLE) committee, overseeing various sub-committees
within the DEI office for faculty and staff.
• Identified and communicated regulatory risks, devising effective mitigation strategies.
• Played a key role in the recruitment and selection process of committee members.
• Orchestrated the monthly culture awareness calendar for university faculty and staff, collaborating with
marketing and communications.
• Provided support to internal teams through training, mentoring, and guidance.
• Managed event preparation, ceremonies, and associated budgets.
• Developed and presented presentations for sub-committees.
• Contributed to the drafting, generation, surveying, and analysis of forms.
• Actively participated in corporate, educational, and community conferences.
• Cultivated a climate of success within the team and contributed to organizational knowledge management
processes.
• Supervised thirteen subcommittees focusing on DEI initiatives.
• Developed and maintained templates for scenario analysis, proposals, and agreements.
• Implemented and managed tracking tools.
REGULATORY EXPERIENCE
Coordinator, Regulatory Matters and Lease Administration Senior Paralegal – Illinois Tech
January 2020 – August 2022
• Managed regulatory reporting requirements and supported ad-hoc special projects.
• Prepared periodic reports for relevant stakeholders.
• Developed and maintained templates for scenario analysis, proposals, and agreements.
• Implemented and managed tracking tools.
• Oversaw university rental property showcasing and leasing programs.
• Managed garnishment processing within the Office of General Counsel, ensuring accurate documentation and
timely payments.
PARALEGAL EXPERIENCE
Senior Paralegal – Illinois Institute of Technology “Illinois Tech”
February 2018 – January 2020
Full-Time Paralegal – Illinois Institute of Technology “Illinois Tech”
February 2015 – January 2017
Part-Time Paralegal – Illinois Institute of Technology “Illinois Tech”
May 2012 – February 2015
• Managed calendars, answered phones, and facilitated efficient scheduling.
• Resolved conflicts and liaised with internal and external contacts.
• Conducted legal research, filed court and government documents, and completed assigned legal projects.
• Organized document files, updated databases, and maintained archival records.
D. Go n za lez, Pro f essio n a l
Resume Pa g e 1|2
DOMINITRICE “DEE” GONZALEZ
PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

Summary of Qualifications
Dynamic professional with extensive experience in leadership, administration, regulatory
compliance, and paralegal support. Adept at managing diverse teams, overseeing complex
projects, and ensuring organizational effectiveness. Skilled in cultivating positive workplace
cultures, driving engagement initiatives, and fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)
efforts. Demonstrated ability to identify and mitigate regulatory risks, develop robust
processes, and implement tracking tools for efficient operations. Proficient in legal research,
document management, and administrative tasks, with a strong focus on attention to detail and
accuracy. Effective communication, problem-solving, and strategic planning abilities.
Director Experience Highlights
• Led the establishment of the Work Life and Engagement (WLE) committee, overseeing
various DEI sub-committees.
• Identified and communicated regulatory risks, devising effective mitigation strategies.
• Orchestrated monthly culture awareness calendars, collaborating with marketing and
communications.
• Provided support to internal teams through training, mentoring, and guidance.
• Managed event preparation, ceremonies, and associated budgets.
• Developed and presented presentations for sub-committees and actively participated in
conferences.
• Supervised thirteen subcommittees focusing on DEI initiatives.
• Developed and maintained templates for scenario analysis, proposals, and agreements.
• Implemented and managed tracking tools for organizational effectiveness.
Regulatory Experience Highlights
• Managed regulatory reporting requirements and supported ad-hoc special projects.
• Prepared periodic reports for relevant stakeholders.
• Developed and maintained templates for scenario analysis, proposals, and agreements.
• Oversaw university rental property showcasing and leasing programs.
• Managed garnishment processing within the Office of General Counsel, ensuring
accuracy and compliance.
Paralegal Experience Highlights

• Managed calendars, answered phones, and facilitated efficient scheduling.


• Conducted legal research, filed court and government documents, and completed
assigned legal projects.
• Organized document files, updated databases, and maintained archival records.
• Handled administrative tasks including copying, scanning, faxing, and ordering supplies.
• Reviewed discovery production, performed legal research, and attended status calls.
• Facilitated communication with clients, witnesses, and other stakeholders.
References available upon request
Elias Lopez

OBJECTIVE: Long-time resident of the community who is a devoted public servant committed
to improving the lives of his fellow residents. Particularly devoted to using data­
driven solutions to address the achievement gap and lift up underperforming
students.

EXPERIENCE: Hodgkins Park District, Hodgkins, Illinois


Director of Parks, 2005 - present
• Oversees the planning, development, maintenance, and operations of public
parks and recreational facilities.
• Managed the design, review, and implementation of park and recreation
renovations, improvements and expansions.
• Budgetary management of a multi-faceted organization and operation.

Elias Lopez Landscaping, Hodgkins, Illinois


Founder and Chief Executive Officer, 1996 - present
• Oversees and manages all aspects of operations.
• Ensures high-quality service.
• Oversees the recruiting, hiring, integration and management of employees.

COMMUNITY School District 105, La Grange, Illinois


INVOLVEMENT: President of the Board of Education, 2017-present
President of D105 Foundation
• Sets the tone and climate of board meetings to ensure an environment that
allows for optimal decision making and effective operations.
• Oversees the implementation and operation of the district to align with the
strategic plan, ensuring that policies and priorities correspond with the
needs of the community.
• Work to implement plans of action to address the achievement gap with
data-driven solutions.

Toy Express, Hodgkins, Illinois


Local facilator of charitable organization that provides backpacks to students
at the start of the school year and gifts during the winter holidays.

SKILLS Bilingual: English and Spanish


PROFICIENCIES: Strategic Planning Experience
Community Outreach Planning Experience
lncludED trained by John Krownapple
4/19/24, 7:04 AM Lyons Township High School District 204 - Board of Education Candidate Information Packet 2024

If you answered yes to the question above, please explain.

I (sign your name below and date), do hereby declare myself as an applicant for appointment to *
the Board of Education of District 204, County of Cook I am a registered voter, have resided in
the district for at least one year and meet the age requirement If selected, I will serve the
children of the district to the best of my ability

Lynn Bush 4/18/24

This form was created inside of Lyons Township HSD204

Forms

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1pkCvQAfNYWD1gIkXBEHCZJdu2VKcMCiNiHct2mAsHl8/edit?pli=1#response=ACYDBNgAEaFrjGaXAnSk_8tkvlYD… 6/6
4/19/24, 1:40 PM Lyons Township High School District 204 - Board of Education Candidate Information Packet 2024

What do you think are the biggest challenges facing the District in the next five years? *

Inclusivity: There is significant focus in our areas on ensuring college admissions, but there are multiple
paths for range of diverse student and learners within the LTHS community. Creating an inclusive yet
rigorous environment for learning that emphasizes the skills necessary for student achievement in future
endeavors, whether that’s college or a vocational institution, is of paramount importance. Working with the
superintendent and his staff to ensure there is work to balance core competencies of math, language arts
and science with the individual interests students may have in the humanities or other elective courses that
stress creativity, free thinking and problem-solving outside the classroom.

Communication: Building and strengthening relationships with residents that live in the district but do not
have students attending LTHS. As the district implements its strategic plan, more resources should be
applied toward communication and outreach to keep D204 residents informed of the school’s educational
mission, its current student programs and achievements, and future plans.

Community Outreach: As the school embarks on an ambitious-but-needed facility modernization plan, the
district should create a facilities committee made up of several different constituencies representing a
broad range of professional expertise from within the district to help the board investigate opportunities,
evaluate plans and provide informed recommendations so optimal decisions can be made. These proposed
plans will involve a significant cost to the district and its taxpayers, so the greater the outreach and
community involvement, the better the chance to create consensus.

Describe your community and/or District 204 involvement, including activities and committees *

I am an active member within the Pleasantdale School District. I have been on the Pleasantdale PTO for two
years and am currently one of the PTO Co-President. I was a member of the recent Pleasantdale School
District's Strategic Planning Committee, as well as a member of the Pleasantdale Community Engagement
Committee. My husband and I have been active volunteer coaches within Lyons Township Little League,
which has given us an opportunity to meet and coach children outside of our home school district but who
will attend district 204. Additionally, my husband and I are also members of the La Grange Country Club
which has introduced us to several members of the District 204 Community.

What unique qualities/experience do you have that would make you a good Board Member? *

I have significant corporate governance experience, as well as an understanding of how a school district
operates I have also had several volunteer experiences in different educations settings

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1pkCvQAfNYWD1gIkXBEHCZJdu2VKcMCiNiHct2mAsHl8/edit?pli=1#response=ACYDBNiNybsvwFNalbmqWGlx9d… 5/7
4/19/24, 7:03 AM Lyons Township High School District 204 - Board of Education Candidate Information Packet 2024

Describe your community and/or District 204 involvement, including activities and committees *

I have actively engaged in my community through various roles, demonstrating my commitment and
leadership skills. As a two-year Board of Education member at St. Cletus School, I contributed significantly
by leading the organization and execution of the annual auction, participating as a Pet Parade Volunteer,
and supporting multiple fundraising efforts by volunteering. My dedication extends into sports, where I
volunteer with the LT freshmen football, boys volleyball and JV hockey teams, in addition to being a fervent
advocate for the LT girls volleyball program. Moreover, I have successfully contributed to the organization
of a Memorial Golf Outing in honor of alumni Andrew Newman and I attend the annual Legacy Guild
Fundraiser with family friends who have been recipients of scholarships from their efforts. Currently, I am
honored to contribute my expertise and passion as a Board Member for the Lyons Township Hockey Club
and we foster rescue dogs regularly in our home until they are fully vetted, healthy and ready for forever
homes.

What unique qualities/experience do you have that would make you a good Board Member? *

With 26 years of teaching experience spanning city and suburban schools, from high school to college, I
now serve in Proviso District 209. My commitment in recent years has been dedicated to addressing and
rectifying issues in a district that suffered from mismanagement and misleading practices. Collaborating
passionately with community members and fellow educators during the previous campaign season has
profoundly shown me the significant impact that dedicated, ethical individuals focused on students' best
interests can achieve. Inspired by this realization, I am eager to channel this energy and passion into District
204. I am confident that my capacity for impartial educational leadership, alongside representing a section
of Lyons Township that is rarely given a voice on the BOE, would significantly benefit the board, the students
and the community at large.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1pkCvQAfNYWD1gIkXBEHCZJdu2VKcMCiNiHct2mAsHl8/edit?pli=1#response=ACYDBNiazHAUr9--yN3ZpgnF1dm… 5/7
4/19/24, 7:03 AM Lyons Township High School District 204 - Board of Education Candidate Information Packet 2024

If you answered yes to the question above, please explain.

N/A

I (sign your name below and date), do hereby declare myself as an applicant for appointment to *
the Board of Education of District 204, County of Cook I am a registered voter, have resided in
the district for at least one year and meet the age requirement If selected, I will serve the
children of the district to the best of my ability

Paula S. Struwing

This form was created inside of Lyons Township HSD204

Forms

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1pkCvQAfNYWD1gIkXBEHCZJdu2VKcMCiNiHct2mAsHl8/edit?pli=1#response=ACYDBNiazHAUr9--yN3ZpgnF1dm… 7/7
Email *

Name *

Shawn Kennedy

Address *

Work Phone *

Education *

High School, some college

Occupation *

Financial Advisor

Years of residence in District 204 *

40 years

Do you currently, or have you in the past, had children in District 204? *

Yes

If answer to the question above is yes, please provide ages and graduation years.
Why do you want to be a Board Member? *

As mentioned above, I have three children attending Lyons Township. I graduated LT in 1990. I’ve spent
nearly my entire life in this school district and one of my main priorities is to donate as much time as
possible to help further the advancement of our marvelous community.

What do you think are the biggest challenges facing the District in the next five years? *

I believe some challenges we will face are, social equality, environmental sustainability, healthcare,
economic growth, infrastructure updates and educating our children to assure they are all ready for the
next stage in life after LT whatever that may be for them.

Describe your community and/or District 204 involvement, including activities and committees *

Indian Head Park, a Village Trustee from 2020 to 2023. During my time as a trustee, I was the public
works committee chair, fences and shed committee chair, tree and landscaping committee chair.
Currently, I am still on the economic development committee. Lastly, I am one of the four founding
members of the West Suburban Flood Solutions, collaboration.

What unique qualities/experience do you have that would make you a good Board Member? *

In May I will complete my 24th year as a self-employed independent financial advisor. During this time,
my focus has been analyzing clients’ financial situations creating a well thought out plan executing that
plan and adjusting as economic or personal changes arise. I am well versed in looking at a situation from
all sides, weighing the pros and cons to make the most pragmatic decision possible.

Define the role of the Board as you see it. What would your role be as a member? *

The role of a school board is to set district goals and establish policies. Budget oversight review and
approve the district’s budget, ensuring that financial resources are allocated properly and effectively.
Hiring and evaluating the superintendent and other key staff positions. Engaging with community, the
board acts as liaisons between the district in the community. And most importantly, advocating for
students and families. The board should always advocate for the best interest of students and families
within the district, ensure equal access to education, support, diverse student needs, and address
concerns, raised by the community. Overall, my role as a board member would be in shaping the
educational experience of students in the district, making decisions that impact curriculum, finances
policies, and the overall success of LTHS and its students.
Describe any other background qualifications or experiences that are related to school children/youth.

From 2010-2020 I volunteered as a coach in T-ball, baseball, soccer, and basketball for all three of my
sons.

BOE Meetings typically occur on the first and third Monday of each month, with few exceptions. Would
you have any conflicts with these days?

No

I (sign your name below and date), do hereby declare myself as an applicant for appointment to the
Board of Education of District 204, County of Cook. I am a registered voter, have resided in the district
for at least one year and meet the age requirement. If selected, I will serve the children of the district to
the best of my ability.

Shawn Kennedy 4/8/2024


4/19/24, 7:02 AM Lyons Township High School District 204 - Board of Education Candidate Information Packet 2024

I (sign your name below and date), do hereby declare myself as an applicant for appointment to *
the Board of Education of District 204, County of Cook. I am a registered voter, have resided in
the district for at least one year and meet the age requirement. If selected, I will serve the
children of the district to the best of my ability.

Steven Marquardt

This form was created inside of Lyons Township HSD204.

Forms

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1pkCvQAfNYWD1gIkXBEHCZJdu2VKcMCiNiHct2mAsHl8/edit?pli=1#response=ACYDBNgYlIcTI3Z7mWo-msEOQ_… 6/6

You might also like