IL — Four newcomer candidates and one incumbent are the projected winners of an unexpired two-year term and four 4-year terms on the Summit Hill District 161 Board of Education
Melissa Ryan is the projected winner of a 2-year term with 1,876 votes; and Amy Berk
Patrick Oliphant and Ronnie Petrey are the projected winners of the four 4-year terms
Note that election results below are unofficial
The Will County Clerk's Office certifies election results on April 22
The Summit Hill race was slightly crowded and contentious, in part due to a December 2023 vote by the Board to close two of the District's schools. Several challengers ran against incumbent candidates after the decision
The school district boundaries pull students from parts of Frankfort
Martin and Campbell ran with newcomer Gant as "Citizens for 161 Excellence." The group said it has established long-term fiscal stability
and has expanded the voice of the community by adding student board members and designing the parent guardian academy
Incumbent Berk ran alongside newcomers Chavez
The group "represents all areas of the district geographically," according to the candidates
engineer and food service business professional
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and voters will decide on several local races
including the race for Summit Hill District 161 Board of Education
There are two candidates running for one unexpired 2-year term; and eight candidates running for four 4-year terms
The Summit Hill race is slightly crowded and contentious, in part due to a December 2023 vote by the Board to close two of the District's schools. Several challengers are running against incumbent candidates after the decision
Patch also offered a candidate survey to all candidates
and several candidates running for Summit Hill Board of Education filled them out
Martin and Campbell are running with newcomer Gant as "Citizens for 161 Excellence." The group said it has established long-term fiscal stability
If you are already in line to vote when the polls close
If you don't know your polling place, find it here.
early voting starts in just over two weeks on March 17
and residents can already request a ballot to vote by mail
Frankfort voters will vote on several races
Here are some races that will appear on the ballot:
(If you are a candidate in the upcoming April 1 election
please email andrea.earnest@patch.com for a candidate questionnaire to share your positions with readers)
Frankfort-area voters who want to cast their ballots early
If you don't want to travel outside of Frankfort
there are two early voting locations in town
one at Frankfort Village Hall and one at Frankfort Public Library
The Frankfort Village Hall site serves local residents only; while the library serves all Will County residents
according to the Will County Clerk's Office
Hours for early voting at Frankfort Village Hall will be:
Hours for early voting at the Frankfort Library will be:
You can apply directly with the Will County Clerk's Office for your vote by mail ballot request. The first day to request your vote by mail ballot was Jan
and Will County residents have until March 27 to request a vote by mail ballot
The first day that the vote by mail ballots will be mailed is March 17
If you don't know your polling place, find it here.
2024 at 3:00 pm CT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}The general election is Nov
and the biggest race on the ballot is the presidential election
pitting Vice President Kamala Harris against former President Donald J
IL — Early voting has been underway at the county clerk's office since last month
and now early voting will also begin at Frankfort Village Hall and Frankfort Public Library on Oct
there are also races and referenda to vote on
There are two early voting locations in Frankfort
Not sure if you’re registered to vote, or need to change your address? You can find out here.
If you’re not registered, you have until Oct. 20 to register to vote online
You can also register in person on Election Day
you can do so at driver’s license facilities
Call ahead to ensure that a registrar is available at locations
and at least one must show your current address
Illinois voters can also file an application to vote by mail, and you can find vote by mail applications on the Illinois State Board of Elections website.
the Illinois Election Authority must receive it by Oct
31.You can also request a mail-in ballot online on your county clerk’s website
If you’ve already requested your mail-in ballot
you should receive it around the time early voting starts
it must be completed and postmarked by Election Day — Nov
2025 at 12:04 pm CT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}Damage was mostly broken branches and a few small
IL — After severe weather in the Chicago area on Wednesday
the National Weather Service has confirmed an EF-0 tornado in Frankfort
According to preliminary storm survey findings
the tornado touched down from 5:18 to 5:19 p.m
The weather service said the tornado briefly touched down near Sauk Trail
It moved north northeast into a residential area along Shetland Drive and Troon Circle
Damage was mostly broken branches and a few small
The tornado dissipated just past this neighborhood near Harlem Avenue
Several other tornadoes have been confirmed so far from Wednesday's storms
including one in Joliet/Preston Heights; Steger; Lynwood; Highland
2024 at 12:40 pm CT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}This year
IL — There's just a few weeks until Halloween
so it's time to start thinking about Halloween costumes and even some early purchases of Halloween candy
If you don't want to head out on Halloween to trick or treat
the Frankfort Police Department will hold a trunk or treat event on Oct
The free family event allows kids to show off Halloween costumes and trick or treat from trunks of different business groups and community organizations
The trunk or treat event will be held from 10 a.m
26 in the Breidert Green parking lot in downtown Frankfort
2025 at 10:32 am CT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}One of those candidates is Ronnie Petrey
who is running for a 4-year term on the Summit Hill D161 Board of Education
Patch offers candidate questionnaires for all candidates in local races
One of those races in Frankfort is the race for Summit Hill District 161 Board of Education
The Summit Hill race is slightly crowded and contentious, in part due to a December 2023 vote by the Board to close two of the District's schools. The school district boundaries pull students from parts of Frankfort
Petrey recently filled out the Patch candidate questionnaire
https://www.facebook.com/profi...
ages and any pertinent details you wish to share.):
Jennifer (wife - married for 7 years)Ronnie Jr (son - 20)Mackenzie (daughter - 17)Seth (son - 17)Mason (son - 13)
Does anyone in your family work in politics or government
This includes any relatives who work in the government you're running for
No one in my family is currently working in government or holds a political position
In the past my grandfather held a trustee position in Alsip which inspired me to run for this current position for the school board
Giving back to your community and serving those in your community is an honor
I earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics with a minor in education from Saint Xavier University
I earned my master’s degree in educational leadership from Olivet Nazarene University
I have been a teacher for the past 23 years teaching in the field of mathematics at the high school level
through those years I have served as a coach for multiple sports
have been involved in curriculum development and rewriting for numerous subjects in mathematics
was the head of the mathematics department for many years
have done multiple years as an intern dean
and was a facilitator for an alternative night school program for Juniors and Seniors
Previous or current elected or appointed office:
I am currently running for the 4-year term school board position
I have never been elected or appointed to an office position
The most pressing issues facing our district are _______
and this is what I intend to do about them
The biggest issue that faces our district is that our community feels that their concerns are not heard or even respected by some of the current seated board members
This district was founded as a district for the community
Our district serves a vast area that has residents that live in Mokena
Parents moved here and were encouraged by the idea that they could walk their kids to school and not have them bused across the district
At one point we had elementary schools in every one of these towns of Mokena
Just recently in December 2023 this foundation was fractured for the third time in the last 12 years
Our community has had to endure four school closings which were Mary Drew
Even though one of them was the high school district 210 idea it still affected our community greatly
our community can still see the high school sit vacant
while we still pay taxes for the empty school
The recent closings of Arbury Hills and Frankfort Square schools took only four months to decide to close both schools even though very little support was given from the community to close those schools
in the presidential election of November 2024 over 10.3 K residents of our district voted that they did not support or believe that the school closing procedure was done effectively
I want to bring back community involvement and allow parents to feel that their voices are heard no matter their stance
I want our community members to feel that the board meetings are a welcoming place where we can have hard discussions with transparency and respect
I believe in and will continue to support our Community Outreach Committees and be an advocate for more town halls
I want our board to encourage staff members to speak out and be the foundational building blocks for student success and rigor in all our core subjects and other programs that we offer throughout our district
Should cell phones be banned during school
As a high school teacher for the past 23 years
I started my teaching journey when cell phones weren’t an issue
in the past 10 years I have noticed that cell phones have become a major issue in school settings
The data has shown that cell phones take away from the learning environment by distracting students from concepts and skills that they need to learn
social media is one of the major causes of violence between students in schools
I support District 161 board policy 7:190 which states for cell phones to be off and in backpacks in lockers
I support District 161 1 to 1 ratio with technology by allowing each student to have a district issued iPad for educational purposes
what do you bring to the board and what may you plan to change
I bring my experience in education for over 23 years and as a coach for 25 years from kindergarten level to high school level
What my experiences have taught me is that it doesn’t matter the age group that you coach or students that you teach
No matter the level it’s important for athletes to mature and grow as well as students in a classroom to learn
This realization of expectation and growth would allow me to be a great asset to serve on the district 161 school board
As a board member I will hold myself and those around me to an expectation that we will be a place for people to share their opinion openly
We will be a safe place where we will respect different viewpoints and will be a place where full transparency will take place with every decision
Facts on those decisions will be shared throughout our community and district and an adequate amount of time will be given before a vote is made
Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform:
As you have read earlier in the previous answers
which are two of the three pillars that I believe I can bring to our district
I would want to keep building on the success our district has had with getting our test scores back to pre-pandemic levels as well as the development of the stem programs
I will be a board member that will continue to provide resources to our teachers to continue to collaborate and develop curriculums that will increase our students’ success in the classroom and out in our community
What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job
I have worked in and with many different settings and teams
I have worked with groups that I disagreed with and in those disagreements
we have found common ground that helped shape students for the schools I taught at and the teams that I have coached
ask questions and move to a solution that best fits the situation for all parties involved
I have been in settings and teams to find ways to celebrate in our collective success
I believe when things we work on together are successful we need to spend the time celebrating that success
I’ve been part of and involved in this community for 17 years either coaching in our local youth leagues
volunteering at our district schools for different events
or attending and speaking at different board meetings
I have a strong belief that the best way to give back to your community is by getting involved and serving
I believe I have done this with respect and integrity and will continue to do this as a board member for District 161
what accomplishment would make your term in office a success
The success that I envision for this school district is to help heal the pain that our community has faced in the last 12 years
administrators and board members to work together for one common goal to make District 161 the most successful district around
I want our district to be the community that you want to move to
Our community needs to heal and I believe I can be a board member that has their best interests for the future of our school district and the education of their kids
What guidance should staff be given for dealing with potential ICE enforcement at schools
Based on my personal experience in education
ICE enforcement has never been an issue at any of the schools I have taught at
For the most part ICE believes that schools are a safe zone
each district I have taught at has policies and procedures in place to work with government officials or law enforcements
I believe district 161 has policy and procedures already in place
How do you feel about sex education being taught in school
District 161 current handbook and board policy 6:50-6:60 provides health classes at the Junior high level
That policy allows parents to have the right to decline that class for their students without any punitive repercussion
I believe in this policy as much as I believe that each family has the right to share with their child or not share with their child on sex education
The school district is there to provide equal education on the core subjects and best prepare all students for the next grade level
what are schools within this district doing well and what needs to be improved
As answered in earlier questions about academic achievement
our district has done a good job of providing an education that has brought up test scores back to pre-pandemic levels
our district has developed some great programs like the stem program and stem labs
I want to continue to look at our programs and continue to provide researched based resources to our teachers to better their curriculum to raise the standards and to push our students to even greater success
I want to look at and encourage new ideas on ways to move our students to enrich programs that teach much needed skills that challenge them to higher success
I want to provide our district with the resources to give our students a well-rounded education in the classroom as well as out of the classroom in clubs and athletics
Is there any reason you would not serve your full term of office
I have spent the time talking to my family and reflecting on the commitment that it would take to be a great board member for this district
I will be a fully invested board member that will take pride and honor serving this community and the students of this district for the full length of my term in office
Frankfort Election Guide: What’s On The Ballot, What To Know
Here is a look at the candidates for Summit Hill District 161:
2024 at 8:14 pm CT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}Crisis negotiators coaxed the person down and he was taken into custody
IL — Police were involved in a standoff Sunday with a person who displayed a toy rifle before fleeing to the roof of his Frankfort Square home
according to the Will County Sheriff’s Office
The person was involved in a property damage complaint
Deputy Chief Daniel Jungles said in an email
and he emerged from his residence in the 20200 block of Lismore Circle with an AR-15-style rifle that authorities quickly identified as a toy
When deputies tried to take him into custody
he went back inside and climbed through a window onto his roof
Crisis negotiators coaxed him down and he was then taken into custody
Chavez recently filled out the Patch candidate questionnaire
FB: Adrian Chavez for District 161 Board of Education
Brother Daniel and wife Sarah Chavez 2 nieces
Sister Lindsey and husband Brad Pederson niece and nephew
My wife is a Freshman English Teacher at Joliet West H.S.
I'm the Regional Account Manager for Ventura Foods and have been a Foodservice Industry Professional with over 25 years of experience
The most pressing issues facing our district are the Board of Education's Culture and its disconnect from the community
As a lifelong resident and product of the district
I fear the board has become unwelcoming and lacks transparency in its decision-making
and promote healthy discussions to ensure all voices are heard and valued
I will bring humility and a spirit of selfless service
pushing for board members to be accessible
and role models for students and neighbors
and our students reflect the values we uphold- I will strengthen both
cell phones should be banned during school hours to empower teachers and help students stay focused and present
and learning- and in young hands they can be harmful
Studies show that students adapt better without them and develop better independent problem-solving skills
social media and smartphone addiction have been linked to increased anxiety
for after school activities and parental communications could be reasonable
I bring a sorely needed outside perspective to the Board
shaped by my experience beyond the education bubble
My background in selling and promoting national brands
working with and training national restaurant chains
I understand how to cut through inefficiencies
My expertise in networking across industries that impact the food supply chain has given me a deep understanding and exposure to how different sectors and industries work together- a valuable skill for improving culture within our schools and community
and exposure to the fast paced and ever-changing world outside of academia
As a first generation PROUD American from immigrant parents
I have a unique appreciation for the power of family
allowing me to genuinely connect with both long-time residents and newer neighbors
My experiences outside of schools will ensure that we better serve all students
and message effectively with our constituents of all opinions
I want to be clear that I deeply appreciate the dedication of our district's administrators and teachers- their love and commitment to our community
I assure you that few things are more heartwarming than hearing schools
administrators and others say "These are our kids." However
I can assure you that every parent in the world would agree: "Thank you
they're my kids first."This is not a statement of division
The Board I plan to serve on will ensure that parents voices are amplified because at its core
the Board of Education is accountable to the parents of the most vulnerable and affected by its decisions- your students
Our neighbors without children should and always will have a seat at the table
their perspectives are valuable and we have much to learn from and appreciate from them
our teachers and faculty deserve the utmost trust
as they are the professionals we depend on and truly trust for guidance and the education of our children
But to truly move forward from the division and heal this district
That starts with acknowledging why parents are
so passionate about our school's decisions and messaging
A Board of Education must include voices beyond the field of education- it needs representation from parents who bring diverse perspectives and firsthand understanding of the challenges families face
I am the candidate that would restore that balance
and put in the actual work of being accessible
listening and learning with grace and empathy
I've represented and sold National food and beverage brands at all capacities
I've successfully brokered international partnerships for the exportation of food products
I've trained sales teams on street selling and more complex Business to Business program selling
developing modules and other training tools
I manage partnerships with large regional restaurant chains
These experiences have honed my ability to manage multiple responsibilities
all of which are crucial skills for serving on this Board
am the audience for this Board of Education
I've lived out a very wide range of life experiences in this area
that I believe I share with most of our residents and students
playing soccer for the first time-representing Frankfort SQ (our State and then Varsity for LWC 210)
biking and staying out too late by the White Hen Pantry
attending Lincoln Way East and meeting my now wife
learning about the closing of Lincoln Way North
Virtual learning through Covid then seeing my son saddened by learning of the closing of his Frankfort Sq School on his Birthday Dec
Voters should trust me because I have District 161 in my DNA
but my wife is a Highschool teacher that grew up in Mokena
so I do get unfiltered feedback of the experiences and challenges teachers face
4 boys that will attend and graduate from 161
and I intensely not only value the environment and experiences we as a community provide for our students but also each other
Measurable and demonstrable better attendance and engagement at board meetings
Hiring a new Superintendent that understands not only our schools and their needs
but the culture we have and strive for in 161
I am extremely sensitive to and understand the concerns of immigrant families
Our priority is to ensure a safe and stable learning environment for all students and staff while also respecting federal law
Schools should comply with legal obligations when required
such as deferring to legal counsel and administration
and we should provide them with clear communication and training regarding their rights and training on how to respond professionally
we must also provide resources and guidance to families facing any challenges
I feel that sex education before the Junior High Level is unnecessary
as younger students benefit more from lessons in empathy and kindness
Throughout a child's development I believe parents should have first say on what their personal children can be taught on or exposed to
ensuring education aligns with their values
a basic curriculum on reproductive health and safety is appropriate
Our schools should prioritize core subjects while reinforcing core principles like respect
we should respect all individuals and their personal choices
and focused on equipping students with essential knowledge and not ideology
I believe that every parent in our community can agree on one fundamental goal: ensuring our kids are fully prepared for the next grade level and
we must stay laser-focused on core tested subjects (THE BASICS)
Together we should explore proven strategies
by learning from our sister districts- to set clear benchmark targets
that drive meaningful and measurable growth for all students
thankfully Patrick Oliphant pointed out about me
is that I believe we should explore multilingual learning opportunities
Almost all districts have English as a second language programs (ESL)
but as someone who operates in the private sector
and cultural trends have made our world that much smaller and more interconnected than ever
a refugee from Cuba and Immigrant from Mexico
Not only has this unlocked professional opportunities and experiences I wouldn't have had otherwise
but research has consistently shown that bilingualism enhances cognitive development
ALL countries that outperform us academically average more than 2 spoken languages per student
with a key factor: they introduce these programs as early as possible
making it easier for those little minds to absorb and internalize while in the chapter when they're most learning how to communicate
We should consider successful immersion programs
like those at Little Bulgaria Center in Des Plaines that I personally met with
which have helped children become proficient in both Bulgarian and English through after-school and weekend programs for their youngest children
and forward thinking opportunities like multilingual education
we can ensure our students have the tools to compete and thrive in an ever-evolving world
Our schools have fantastic teachers and resources
and our grades have been recovering post-Covid
I believe we do a great job recognizing achievement and offering accelerated programs for top performers
I would like to see improvement in holistic student development- such as addressing mental health
I believe we have ground to make on our community engagement
from volunteering to organized social gatherings at our awesome parks or common areas to field trips to our local business if only for exposure
and I feel we should work more with our teachers explore and embrace innovative technology to make doing what they do so great
we need to commit energy and resources to supporting the middle and lower performing students understanding their challenges and creating strategies to help them enjoy learning and unlock their unique potential
2025 at 10:04 am CT.css-79elbk{position:relative;} As a way to help keep voters informed
One of those candidates is Patrick Oliphant
Oliphant recently filled out the Patch candidate questionnaire
FB page "Patrick Oliphant for Summit Hill School Board 161"
ages and any pertinent details you wish to share):
My mom worked a non-political job at Worth Township for over 25 years
My wife works as a substitute school nurse for the school district
She started this position several years before I decided to run for the Board of Education
in History from Northern Illinois University in 2004
Occupation (Please note years of experience):
Local 399 Stationary Engineer/ABM Engineering Manager
I have 18 years of experience in my profession
I was elected to the Student Council in grades 7
I will request our Superintendent conduct Field Level Studies from our frontline educators and utilize the greatest resource we have: our teachers
I will also network outside of our district to find out the best practices used in the Chicagoland area to grow and maintain sustainable success
I plan on regaining the public's trust and be transparent by being honest with them
listening to them without judgement or ridicule (which happens at our meetings now
clarifying action items and not forcing major votes on the day that they are discussed
I plan on being accessible to the public by attending community events
not just 161 events but major events hosted by our inclusive communities (Tinley Park
Frankfort) as well as 161 events like fundraisers
I believe students should be allowed to have cell phones in their backpack
and be free to contact family (should they need to) during their bus rides to and from school
There was an issue where my daughter's school bus got lost and drove to Matteson
and students having cell phones was the only way that parents knew the whereabouts of the bus in real time
I plan to bring several things that will help the district on day 1
I have 18 years of experience not only understanding Facilities Mechanical Operations from a mechanical standpoint
there was no Property Manager so I assembled multi-million dollar Operational and Capital Budgets
submitted my data for review by the Board's Finance Officer and collaborated with the Board to finalize the budgets (I worked at a high end Co-Op
so everyone who lived there was an owner and I worked directly with the Board of Directors)
I than implemented those budgets for the property and oversaw all operations on site
I will also bring my experience as a United States Green Building Council Leed Green Associate
This certification focus' on what's known as the Triple Bottom Line: Economic
applied to all types of organizations in both the business and public service world
and creates an atmosphere of upward mobility by its very nature
It is a method of operations that is made up of all that we do and is directly applicable to the role of School Board Member and the responsibilities that the position brings
I plan on bringing an attitude of dignity and respect
I plan on continuing to lead by example that our neighbors are not our enemies in this ever-divisive world
we all have way more in common than we do differences
and we have the same needs and goals as community members
Listening to all perspectives and compromising to achieve growth within the community is a strength
I plan to lead this philosophy with actions
fiscal responsibility and financial transparency
I was the primary advisor for a Board of Directors that was comprised almost entirely of incredibly difficult personalities (all top financial 1% members of society) and turned a toxic environment (financially
mechanically and culturally) into one of long-term sustainable success and installed a renewed sense of community there
I improved communications and worked with people that had very different views and interests to create common goals
communicate them clearly and encourage everyone to participate not only for their own good
I currently manage 150 union employees and am highly skilled in holding teams accountable
while working with them to encourage and grow sustainable success
I assess each of my teams' strengths and weaknesses
and work with them to turn their weaknesses into strengths
I work with clients (Property Managers) to provide our teams with the tools and resources they need to be successful
and work with those clients to communicate why it is in their best interest to do so
These leadership experiences translate directly into the role of a successful School Board Member
I have proven that I am willing to put in the hard work for the public's best interests
I found while going door to door with an informal petition requesting the BOE delay the school closings
that the public in general did not think that their voices mattered and felt there was a complete disconnect with their local governments
I chose to reject that notion and give a voice back to the people because in a local democracy
I worked to create a legal petition to get an Advisory Referendum on the November ballot concerning public approval of the school closings process
I personally worked to earn over 1000 signatures and led the effort to get this measure on the ballot (and survived a legal challenge of the petition by a community member)
10,385 SHSD161 Voters rejected the process employed by our BOE to close the schools
I fought the BOE leadership and won in the court of public opinion
and I helped to restore a voice to the people
This is just the beginning of the work I hope to employ in service to our community
is improved test scores and student safety
We cannot lose focus that our most prized community members
are always at the top of the list in importance
We must also accept and understand the positive and negative roles technology
We must work with parents to communicate those opportunities AND dangers that technology and social media present to our children
Restore community connectivity/public trust
Before Arbury Hills was closed and sold off
one of my favorite activities was walking my kids to and from school anytime I had the opportunity
and really felt we were a part of a community
proposing new events (creating savings in operations to pay for any proposed plans) and plan on working with mayors of our inclusive towns to participate in local events such as Frankfort Fall Fest and the Mokena 4th of July/Tinley Park St Patrick's Day parades
I also plan on using School District property to promote inclusion and participation in local elections
Nonpartisan notifications of upcoming election dates
we will lead by example in teaching our students the importance of civic engagement
the public's trust will follow organically out of these accomplishments
Direct any law enforcement to contact district officials
We have a very similar policy in my current profession
As the onset of puberty starts at earlier ages
there is a role for sexual education in our schools
I believe that education should be based on the biology of reproductive organs
Our district is doing a lot of things well
I plan on encouraging the networking of our top administration officials with those from leading schools in our state to find out what practices they employ to earn higher success
I am also eager to implement a dual language learning program in our district (thank you Adrian Chavez
and a friend of mine worked to get this program implemented in her district
Students in this program test lower than the median generally for the first couple of years
they surpass their peers in testing across the board
I am running with a full commitment to my community
2025 at 1:36 pm CT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}Katie Campbell is an incumbent running for an unexpired 2-year term on the Summit Hill 161 Board of Ed
and early voting already started on March 17
who is an incumbent running for an unexpired 2-year term
Campbell recently filled out the Patch candidate questionnaire
https://www.facebook.com/share...
ages and any pertinent details you wish to share.)
Bachelor's Degree Northern Illinois University
Physical EducationMaster's Degree Eastern Illinois University
Education AdministrationMaster's Degree Chicago State University
Physical EducationLewis University LBS1 Endorsement for Special EducationChicago State University Endorsements in Health and Driver's Education
31 Total years in EducationPhysical Education and Health
Coach Teacher Currently at Oak Forest High School 2011-PresentPhysical Education Department Supervisor Bremen High School District 2001-2011Physical Education Teacher Decatur Public Schools 1994-2001
Current Summit Hill 161 Board Member Elected 2021
I would like to start by saying that Summit Hill School district is in a very good position right now
Our test scores are the highest they have been in 10 years
Our financial rating has gone from 3.4 to a perfect 4.0 in four short years
We have introduced new curriculum and updated materials that were more than eight years old
We have extended the kindergarten day and opened a new
These are just a few things that have been accomplished over the past four years
The restructuring of the district was challenging
consolidation has happened and it was overwhelmingly successful
and I’m sure some teachers still feel uneasy
The commitment of our staff to putting students first
and maintaining professionalism has been remarkable
I remain committed to fostering a great environment for both students and staff
rather than dwelling on past decisions and criticisms
as they don’t provide a constructive path for the future
I fully stand behind every decision I’ve made and am proud to have been part of the votes that have brought the district to its current strong position
My goal is to keep advancing the district—expanding our preschool enrollment and capacity
improving and upgrading our facilities so that the community fully benefits from the taxes we contribute
I believe every district should assess their own challenges with cell phones and create policies that address the specific issues they face
We know that cell phones are a distraction to the learning process but we also understand that they are an integral part of today’s society
If District 161 finds it necessary to adjust our cell phone policy
we should do so based on the evidence and needs within our own district
what do you bring to the board and what may you plan to change?*
My platform focuses on continuing to prioritize students
and enhancing their overall experience through these programs
and we are fortunate to have both the talented teachers and resources to bring those ideas to life
our strings program has grown significantly
and our STEM programming stands out as exceptional
The extension of the kindergarten day has provided our young students with more opportunities to explore the arts and engage in daily physical education
we’ve been able to redirect funding to improve our remaining facilities
all while ensuring a future tax break for the entire community
Quality and high-performing schools benefit everyone in the community
This has always been and will continue to be my central focus
We successfully approved a strong teacher contract
and I have actively advocated for several important initiatives
and enhancing security and safety measures across all our buildings
I have worked to improve the culture and climate to encourage open and productive communication between the board
I advocated for the district to expand summer learning opportunities for those who choose to participate
which resulted in the creation of the Freckle Challenge summer program
Expanding this initiative is one of my future goals
I have consistently advocated for keeping the Storm Construction investigation as a regular update on the agenda
I compiled a list of building and grounds priorities based on feedback from teachers and parents
We have started addressing these items as funds become available
I have strongly supported the STEM and action lab initiatives
I aim to continue enhancing the PE program and its spaces
will soon set a standard for other districts
we secured an 8-acre land purchase at an incredibly low price
I’m excited about the future of the district
Voters should trust me because I am deeply engaged in the process
I dedicate countless hours to asking questions of our district leadership
and often reach conclusions that reflect the input of all stakeholders
I actively listen to both positive and negative feedback and make adjustments based on that input
The decisions I've made have been carefully considered
There are no individual wins when it comes to schools and communities
if we are successful then that is what it is all about
There are no individual victories when it comes to schools and communities—it’s a team effort
our success is about what’s best for the students
it must be aligned with the National Sex Education Standards
District 161 does not opt in to this policy
as it is optional and geared towards older students
student achievement has significantly improved
The achievement gap between our students and those in other school districts no longer exists to the degree it once did
The Summit Hill School community should take great pride in the progress we've made in terms of growth
While there are still areas that need work
and research will be conducted to determine the best next steps in helping those student cohorts advance
Our teachers and administrators remain dedicated to continuous improvement
Frankfort Election Guide: What’s On The Ballot, What To KnowHere is a look at the candidates for Summit Hill District 161:
who is an incumbent running for a 4-year term
Martin recently filled out the Patch candidate questionnaire
Citizens For 161 Excellence
My wife Rene' and I have lived in Frankfort for over 20 years
Our two sons own homes within the district
Undergraduate: North Central College- History
Education (General and Special Education)Graduate: Governors State University- Masters in Educational AdministrationPost Masters-work toward Superintendent’s Endorsement
General and Special EducationAdministration- 23 years
Current Summit Hill 161 School Board President
Lincoln-Way Special Education District 843 Governing Board President
The most pressing issue facing our district is to maintain the positive momentum we have achieved follow the building consolidation
Our school board majority provided the instructional
financial and personnel resources to increase student academic growth while reducing residents taxes
We have achieved this through adoption of new curriculums in Math
Student academic growth is reflected in increased test scores
Financial stability is evidenced by the upgrade in our financial score to a perfect 100% by the State of Illinois
we have maintained the lowest class sizes of any elementary district feeding into Lincoln-Way 210
Cell phone use without boundaries is disruptive to the learning process; I don't think anyone can argue that fact
The question becomes how do we manage this disruption
The difficult part is establishing consistent
An outright ban on cell phones is unrealistic as the ability of parents to connect with their children before and after school must be maintained
I do favor restrictions on cell phone use during the instructional day
We have instituted a Community Outreach Committee to enhance communication and are focused on reducing the tax burden on our families by paying off our bonds in 2027 and continuing to balance our budget each year
Stephanie McCleish and Katie Campbell have shown that we are willing to make the hard decisions that need to be made to improve our district
The addition of Cicily Gant only strengthens our team
We have established long-term financial stability while lowering taxes
The district will be debt free by 2027 with a promise not to seek additional bonds
test scores in ELA have risen 17% and Math 10%
opened the Mary Drew Early Learning Center
a Community Outreach Committee and a Parent/Guardian Academy to name a few initiatives
Because we have acted as responsible board members
We did not leave empty buildings in our district
we have the lowest class sizes and the highest staff retention rate in the area
we reduced the tax burden on our citizens all while raising student academic performance
All of these community concerns were raised during our 7 meetings from September to February concerning consolidation
Our goal is to be the premier elementary district in the area
achieving the highest academic performance standards at lowest cost to our taxpayers
We have administrative procedures in place to address any outside agency's request to enter our buildings
Parents have to right to either opt in or opt out of sex education as part of our health curriculum
The focus of the curriculum is the human body
which is appropriate for elementary students
Our goal is to enhance academic programming across the board
we now have the opportunity to extend more academic support to both high-achieving students and those needing additional academic support in grades 2
This could not be accomplished with 4 buildings
I have currently served 8 years on the Summit Hill 161 board
and have not missed a single meeting in 4 years
There is no reason to believe that I will not serve my full term
(If you are a candidate in the upcoming April 1 election, please email andrea.earnest@patch.com for a candidate questionnaire to share your positions with readers)Frankfort Election Guide: What’s On The Ballot, What To KnowHere is a look at the candidates for Summit Hill District 161:
IL — The consolidated election on April 1 will feature several local races
including the race for Frankfort Park District Board of Commissioners
There are three four-year terms on the ballot
"There are three candidates that filed petitions to be on the ballot; all are incumbents," Frankfort Park District Executive Director Gina Hassett said
Hassett said McCarey is finishing his first term
Ruvoli has been on the Board since 2015 and Ponton since 2019
Berk recently filled out the Patch candidate questionnaire
https://www.facebook.com/share...
Jeffrey Berk (married 16 years)Lyra (14 years old)Daisy (dog)Mom Dad and sister also live in Frankfort
No one in my family currently works in government or politics
I am honored to come from a family that served our hometown community of Oak Forest
My dad is a retired Policeman who served for 33 years and my mother worked as an advocate for others as an Alderman
I earned my bachelors in history with a minor in education from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
My masters in Educational leadership was earned at Lewis University
For over 23 years I have had the joy of teaching high school History
In that position I have served as a teacher leader and PLC leader for US History
I am currently a seated board member of Summit Hill 161 ending my first term
The most pressing issues facing our district include communication between the components necessary for student growth
and student’s academic readiness for high school
board and community all have to work together to support each other and help students succeed
The community perception is that there is a lack of communication between the board or district and the community
People feel that their voices are not being heard and this was especially compounded during the school consolidation process
Clear and Proactive communication as well as taking time to process community and staff input during decision making will make headway to a stronger relationship between the district and community
I have already started to do this as co-chair of the Community Outreach Committee and advocating for a town hall
I have a voting record that reflects thoughtful processing of community and staff input
the community does need to move forward post school consolidations
I plan to go to the community and staff to look at building usage in the future such as what Mary Drew Early Learning Center will be utilized for in future expansion
the common goal is the growth and success of our students and their academic readiness for high school
I am willing to examine IAR scores and work with our teachers and other feeder districts to make sure our students are not only ready for the rigor of the Lincoln Way curriculum
This includes not only emphasis on reading
I recognize the impact cell phones have had on the classroom and student learning as well as the student safety aspect of students having access to devices in case of an emergency
Our district’s current cell phone policy in the student handbook based on board policy 7:190 calls for cell phones to be off and in backpacks in lockers
It calls devices to not be used in a manner that disrupts education policy
The devices are powered off unless otherwise banned by policy or Principal
I would have to look at feedback from staff as to what degree if any there are major issues with violations of this policy and get feedback and data
As an elementary district I would anticipate a lower number
If any policy has staff support and is followed consistently
I am an incumbent currently completing my first term on the board
“Growth with respect” are words I have and will continue to serve by
I want to be part of the board that creates a culture of respect which ultimately benefits students and student growth
The board represents the parents and the community
The board acts as a support for Administration and Teachers to do their jobs
Ultimately the end goal of collaboration is to provide our students with the best foundation and education
I believe in common sense and service leadership
I have negotiated a teacher’s contract that was fair to the staff and the taxpaying community and took steps to rebuild the relationship between staff and the board during the process
I’ve worked with changing board members and stayed true to my values of respect and professionalism
Taught new teachers in professional development
created presentations on behalf of our department
I have been a mediator between administration and staff
My voting record shows that what they voted for is what they got
I voted no to school consolidation based on community feedback
I am available and approachable and am willing to listen to all sides of an issue I listened to the community prior to serving on the board
I have shown that I can represent by attending and speaking at meetings
I kept my calm and focus and respect during these meetings
Success in this case is not just determined by one person
Success will be working with the other board members for the benefit of our students as seen in their growth and progress
Success is leaving the district better for the next round of families moving into the 161 district because it is a fantastic district
Success will be growth in rebuilding the relationship between all the components of what makes our students and community succeed
Success will be watching our students grow to become competitive
leading high school students and citizens creating a sense of pride in our district
minimal ICE enforcement incidents have happened surrounding schools between 2017 and 2019
Schools are typically treated by ICE as safe zones
Our school counseling resources can be utilized by individuals or families as needed if they feel their circumstances require it
We already have board policy or guidelines in place when complying with government agencies and law enforcement
Our current handbook and board policy 6:50-6:60 provides health classes at the junior high while also giving parents the right to decline those classes for their students without any punitive repercussions for the student
I wholeheartedly respect the individual choices and journeys for the LGBTQ community
but also fully respect that LGBTQ education should be an individual family choice as well
especially with the young ages of our students we serve
It is up to individual families in how they introduce that to their children
I am proud that my daughter went through our district
There are so many positive things we do for our students
We offer accelerated and Summit programs for identified students at 5th -8th grade
Our staff is providing interventions for those students that would benefit
Walker for instance offers a variety of clubs sports and activities to supplement student academics
We offer STEM classes at 5th -8th grade as well as communication classes at the junior high
At all levels from the Board to staff we are looking at student achievement based on test scores and working hard to identify what will help our students grow
You can be proud of your district and still recognize room for growth
We can continue to work together to examine how to help our students not just grow but surpass high expectations and have scores that reflect a leadership level in the surrounding neighborhoods
We can increase gifted support at younger grade levels
We can continue to listen to our staff and evaluate the rigor of curriculum and increase exposure to higher level content
This was a well thought out and talked about decision to volunteer and put my name in to run again for this position
I consulted family and friends and decided that I will continue to be able to make a 100% commitment to this community
If I am honored to serve this community again
2024 at 4:00 pm CT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}In the United States
one of the most popular New Year’s Eve traditions is the dropping of the giant ball in New York City’s Times Square
IL — Whether you're headed out to a noon year's eve event with the kids or a New Year's Eve event later in the night; there's plenty to do in and around Frankfort on Dec
Frankfort Park District is ringing in 2025 at its own New Year's Eve event for kids on Dec. 31. You must register in advance for the event
crafts and a balloon drop for ages 4 to 10 at the Founders Community Center
CD&ME, 23320 S. La Grange Road, in Frankfort, will hold an all-inclusive NYE Party on Dec. 31, featuring music by Motown Nation, a premium bar, buffet dinner and champagne toast. It is $125 per person.
Here is a look at some additional events happening around Frankfort:
The transition from one year to the next is often marked by the singing of “Auld Lang Syne,” a Scottish folk song whose title roughly translates to “days gone by,” according to Encyclopedia Britannica and History.com
The tradition of New Year’s resolutions dates back 8,000 years to ancient Babylonians
who made promises to return borrowed items and repay debts at the beginning of the new year
which was in mid-March when they planted their crops
the pagan gods would grant them favor in the coming year
Many secular New Year’s resolutions focus on imagining new
The failure rate of New Year’s resolutions is about 80 percent
but a big one is they’re made out of remorse — for gaining weight
for example — and aren’t accompanied by a shift in attitude or a plan for coping with the stress and discomfort that comes with changing a habit or condition
2025 at 10:31 am CT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}Stefanie McCleish is an incumbent candidate running for Summit Hill 161 Board of Education
One of those candidates is Stefanie McCleish
McCleish recently filled out the Patch candidate questionnaire
Citizens for 161 Excellence (facebook)https://www.facebook.com/share...
married for 10 1/2 years)Blair (9 years old)Finn (7years old)
I am the only person in my family who has ever run for office
My husband and I are both employed as public school educators
MASTER'S DEGREECommunication StudiesEastern Illinois University
MASTER'S DEGREESchool AdministrationGovernor’s State University
BACHELOR OF ARTEnglish EducationIllinois State University
The most pressing issues facing our district are student success and well-being
Now that we have consolidated our buildings and resources
our district can offer increased support to better serve students
We can expand our accelerated and enrichment programs to our younger grades
we can offer more support for our growing EL(English Language Learner) population
and we can focus on specific grade cohorts to improve academic achievement
I proposed the idea of creating a task force with other neighboring feeder districts to specifically look at test scores in the 4th
our district is already doing an excellent job providing Social and Emotional support to ensure our students have the tools to navigate conflict
The mental and physical safety of our students is of the utmost importance
Not only should we continue to enhance security measures
we must also continue to help students cope with challenges and achieve goals
Additionally maintaining financial stability is crucial for a school district
With uncertainty at the federal level it is even more important that our district remains financially sound
Luckily only about 5% of our funding comes from the federal level
after consolidation of schools and paying down one million dollars of bond debt
we have the highest financial rating possible and most recently received a perfect score on our ISBE School District Financial Profile
The district is on track to be debt free by 2027 with no intentions of incurring more
These moves help alleviate some of the burden from our taxpayers and ensure that our funding reaches our students in the most effective manner
I believe every district should have a policy regarding cell phones not being out in academic spaces
Most districts already have something like this in place
District 161’s policy 7:190 establishes that phones are to be off and in lockers or backpacks
72% of high school teachers identified cell phone distraction as a “major problem” in their classroom
healthy boundaries and limiting digital distractions need to begin early
These habits will inevitably help both teachers and students focus and enjoy more success
I do not believe an all out ban would be appropriate or feasible
but I definitely support learning communities tailoring their policies to meet their specific needs
Students should still be able to have access to phones in an emergency
for medical reasons such as diabetic monitoring
I am a current incumbent running for re-election
My platform is student focused - we currently have the highest test scores in ten years
I want to continue to support our teachers as experts in their field and support the important work they are doing in their classrooms
By focusing on our cohorts that are not seeing as much growth and creating a task force with other neighboring districts
we can continue to find more ways to help all of our students succeed
fiscal responsibility remains at the forefront of my platform
The district will be debt free by 2027 with no plans to incur more
we can live within our means and not burden our taxpayers
I plan to continue to find ways to expand opportunities for feedback and voice
I heard this as a desire of many of our constituents and worked hard to research
and assist in implementing all of the following: Community Outreach Committee
Student Experience Committees at each school
I am extremely proud of the work I have accomplished in my past four years on the board
These eighth graders sit at the board table with us and engage in the conversation
they bring important insights from the student perspective
I co-chair the Community Outreach Committee which has also brought for a wealth of feedback and has led to implementation of new ideas and approaches
I suggested student experience committees at each individual school as well
These committees have allowed parents to have their forces heard at a building level and have also brought a great deal of new ideas and perspectives
I have also brought forth the idea of a Parent Guardian Academy with fellow board member Joy Murphy which involves evening sessions hosted by administrators and outside speakers to bring relevant information to parents in our district
and making data-driven decisions based on what is best for all students
Voters should trust me because I do my research
and weigh all of the pros and cons of every single decision before I vote
I do not shy away from difficult decisions
and consider what is best for students as my guiding compass
I maintain integrity and civility in both my words and actions
which ensure I can go to sleep with a clear conscience
I have been trusted to provide the best educational experiences for my students
As a recent recipient of the Illinois State University Alumni in Teaching Excellence award
I feel affirmed in that work and hold steadfast to that mission
My success as a board member cannot be measured by individual accomplishments
but instead measured by our students’ collective success
but has always been and will always be about our students
Their success is the most important measure for me
If they are finding academic and personal success
if they feel like they have a plethora of opportunities
In the event ICE shows up anywhere within our District
the administration has been directed to send these personnel to the District Office
where the superintendent will examine their documents
I support our current district policies and staff practices found in board policies 6:50-6:60 on these topics
I trust our educators to make and tailor the curriculum in age appropriate
According to the Illinois State Board of Education
research demonstrates that instruction for students in all grades under the umbrella of personal health and safety and sexual health education – when done comprehensively – promotes self-confidence and a sense of belonging
and can prevent health problems and many forms of violence
Parents are always welcome to opt their student out of sex education instruction if they so choose
There is so much our district should be proud of
Our scores are the highest they have been in ten years
These results reflect the dedication of our educators
who have continually engaged in curriculum pools and adoptions
It’s evident that our teachers are experts who understand the lessons and skills our students need to thrive and succeed
Across all of the feeders there is an evident dip in scores happening from 4th to 5th grade
I have suggested creating a task force with these neighboring districts to investigate why this is happening on a broad basis
certain cohorts of students are experiencing more growth than others
I believe we can further utilize our instructional coaches and specialists to more directly target these cohorts and offer further support and engagement
Both of my children have had amazing experiences in our schools with each and every teacher
Our staff is incredible and deserves all the praise for their passion
I am committed to focusing on our students moving forward
I would like to see more support and focus on our growing population of EL students
and expanding our gifted offerings as well
No student should fall through the cracks under our watch
As my track record has shown for the last four years
I have and continue to be committed to this role
My family is extremely proud of how I have served and support my decision to run for reelection
My children will be in the district for years to come and I plan to continue to be involved in any way possible
2025 at 1:31 pm CT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}Todd Morgan is a candidate running for a 4-year Village Trustee term on the Frankfort Village Board
One of those races in Frankfort is the race for Frankfort Village Trustee
There are four candidates running for three 4-year Trustee terms
Also on the Village Board: there is one candidate running for Village Clerk
and two candidates running for Village President
who is running for a 4-year Village Trustee term
Morgan recently filled out the Patch candidate questionnaire
Seeking re-election Village of Frankfort Trustee Town/City of Residence:
Frankfort Does anyone in your family work in politics or government
Financial Advisor/Branch Manager at LaSalle St
I hold a Bachelor of Science Degree in Marketing/Economics and Financial Certificates Series 7
Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office:
14 years as a Village of Frankfort Trustee from 2004 – 2016 seeking re-election
The most pressing issues facing our (board
Our most pressing issues are that we continue to lose and or attract quality developments to other communities
besides losing the children's museum which happened right from under our feet
the Village still struggles with empty plaza space in the Kohl’s Plaza for 8 years now and has turned away or failed to develop quality proposals in our Downtown
In the 8 years since I have been off the Board the Village hasn’t brought in 1 quality development either commercial or industrial to move the needle to help our citizens offset our high tax burden.What we have brought in is Bargin Mania
3 Adult Care Nursing homes and the recent additions to the Downtown in a Sushi restaurant and the updates to the bowling alley which are fantastic took 6 years and 3 years respectfully in development
Our reputation for development is horrible and our process is even worse
both of which need to be addressed with urgency
Many other issues like our relationship with the park district and complacency with progress and patting ourselves on the back remain in addition
what would you bring to the board or plan to change
I don't consider myself a challenger because I served over 14 years/4 terms as a Village Trustee and my total years of dedication and achievement are more than the three incumbents combined
My track record and my accomplishments are visual to the community every day
I am seeking to rejoin the board so that I can finish what I started
What I bring is 14 years of proven experience
all the past leadership is gone in great minds like Cindy Heath
That historical vision and perspective are gone
With that lack of depth decisions and policy are like a rudderless ship
I plan on bringing back stability and clear leadership to the board
Besides the failures in development to help our citizens drive down our taxes are the complete dismantling of transparency
communication and public input or involvement need to be addressed
I spent 14 years on the board working with past Mayors Ray Rossi 4 years and Jim Holland 10 years and during that time we always allowed our citizens to come to public meetings and address the board at the podium to allow them to express concerns and we provided as much feedback as we could in addressing those concerns publicly on camera
Today you are allowed to come to the meetings to speak in a one-sided presentation
but the board is not allowed to make any comments in response to your concerns
We always tried to engage with them as much as possible to address their concerns immediately
We all like to use the words transparency and communication
The current board did away with our citizen committees
doesn’t allow for input from Trustees universally
keeps communication as to prospective developments restricted to a few who give the thumbs up or down without public involvement or debate
I want to bring back old fashion small town inclusion not continued propaganda on how great we are
I was first elected to office in 2005 when Route 30 was still two lanes
and we had a McDonalds and Burger King but not much else
I spent the next 14 years working with many talented Village of Frankfort staff
Trustees and Mayors to build out 80% of what you see today
we redeveloped all the downtown in new business
expanded both Phillips chevy and Currie Motors to help with our tax base
changed all the ordinances in town to allow only quality development that was acceptable
led in developing over 1500 homes annually that are the highest quality neighborhoods in the entire south suburbs
Helped in the creation of the Falcon’s football program
lead the effort to build Grand Prairie grade school for our kids
helped bring bathrooms to Commissioner’s Park
We accomplished the goal of setting the standard for what Frankfort is today of being the jewel of the south suburbs and I plan on building on what was established through years of dedication
The voters only need to look at my proven record of accomplishments
public works and our citizens to understand the respect I paid to all of them
the dedication that I worked for them in achieving our common goal of making Frankfort what it is today
Trust comes from earning it and I was reelected 4 times because when I said I would do something and I set goals for the community I delivered 100% on those promises
saying things and doing things are completely different
what accomplishment would make your term in office as a success
Forging a successful relationship with our park district to make a difference in this community
bring in quality development that really moves the needle in lowering our tax burden not just average development anyone can do and to make sure we are always going to be the premier community that both developers and people move to by stop missing so many great opportunities that we aren’t even being considered in the conversation today
government spending and the handling of taxpayer dollars in the office you are seeking
My first goal is to bring back the Village of Frankfort tax rebate program that I was a part of years ago that rebate ½ of the Village of Frankfort’s portion of your taxes when we ran a surplus in revenues
It’s not a lot per resident but it shows that we all understand the tax burden
as a former Trustee for 14 years we ran a balanced budget and lowered the Village of Frankfort of portion of your tax bill every year
In an effort to save taxpayer money I lead the effort to purchase the current public works building that was a former match factory in bankruptcy that was 30,000 sq ft on 11 acres for 600,000 instead of building a 10,000 sq ft addition for a cost of 1.5million
Acquired the land west of the new village hall with over $600,000 savings so we could build a new addition for our citizens
rebuilt our Breidert Green stage using our own public works
people saving over $800,000 that a commercial contractor wanted
and continue to look for innovative ways of getting more for less
Just because its government money it can't be treated like it’s some piggy bank that you just spend you must treat it like your own before you say yes to any expenditure
What are your thoughts on the crime rate in your community
and what more can be done to combat crime — especially violent crime — in town
I came from a community that allowed their surroundings to decay and with it came crime
It’s an everyday battle that you must always be aware of
The village has struggled in holding onto and hiring new and old officers for a variety of reasons
we don't pay as much as some surrounding communities
and I don’t think the leadership in the community makes it more of a priority for the people
We need to be more proactive than reactive
Many more police tools need to be integrated into our valued people for them to have the most advanced tools for protecting us
What is your view of the city’s/village’s approach to commercial and residential development
Commercial and residential development in the past 8 years has been average
we haven’t brought in one high quality/impactful development in both categories
In development you must go out and get it if you want it
things don't just happen because you want it to happen
The surrounding communities are bringing in innovative business and developments that are making a difference and as a former trustee who did that work it’s frustrating to see the complacent of being happy with the crumbs we get
We used to be the ones that had the first choice
but our reputation and our process have turned away or tarnished potential opportunities
what are some key areas for improvement or additions you feel are most wanted by residents
What will need to be done to make this happen
I hear a lot about the need to bring Park-like amenities to our community that we are lacking in comparison to other communities
while the park district is a separate taxing body we must find innovative ways of bringing and developing the types of things the community deserves
We need to fill in our vacancies both downtown and around town
we need to get quality development onto Laraway to service our residents to the south
we need to be at the table when quality developments are out there and not continued to even being asked to be included and looked over at our expense
Not only do I plan to serve out my full term
God willing but I know how much work goes into making thing happen and while I plan on making a big of an impact as I can immediately it might take more than one term to achieve all my goals for our citizens What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions
married to my beautiful wife Cindy of 35 years and we have 3 grown children Brittany
We own and operate 3 businesses in downtown Frankfort
Studio C our event space and 1 North Decor/Bokay Flowers my wife's design company
I have always been committed to making Frankfort the best it can be since the very first day we moved here
worked on the strategic planning committee for District 157-C for 10 years building out Grand Prairie school was a part of establishing the Frankfort Falcons football program
was head of Frankfort girls softball running 6 teams for 4 years
worked with boys baseball in developing better fields
raised thousands of dollars to help support the children's museum
spent over 1 year working with Village of Frankfort staff in rewriting all of the village ordinances to protect it from low quality development
currently serve on our Homeowner’s Board Architectural review committee
We are big dog lovers with 2 Hungarian Vizslas
love our community and very proud of our Village employees who do the real work to make us all look good
2025 at 5:08 pm CT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}According to the weather service
scattered storms could become strong to severe on Wednesday afternoon and evening
IL — A tornado warning has been issued until 5:30 p.m
A severe storm capable of producing a tornado was located over Ingalls Park
Severe weather is possible Wednesday afternoon
and the National Weather Service has issued a tornado watch for Kendall
possibly as far north as I-88," the weather service said
level 2 of 5 damaging wind risk and a level 2 of 5 large hail risk
The most likely time for severe storms is between 3 and 8 p.m
After severe weather moves out of the area
there will be a period of "wind-whipped wet snow" overnight into Thursday
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2024 at 7:09 pm CT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}“Haunted Haz Mat,” 2837 Taylor Glen
Drive New Lenox (Reader submitted)WILL-KENDALL-GRUNDY-DEKALB COUNTY
IL — If you're looking for new zombie graveyards
floating ghosts and devil's playgrounds to explore for Halloween
Patch has assembled its annual scary yard tour for 2024
created by some of Chicagoland’s most imaginative and demented exterior decorators
Given the scary yard tour’s past history of breaking the internet
So click on the link for the list of scary yards near your house
GET ON THE LIST: We LOVE reader submissions, so we'll be updating the list every FRIDAY leading up to Halloween. So send in your pictures and tell us why your yard haunt is worth a drive-by to lorraine.swanson@patch.com. Read more about how to get on the list
If you participated in years past and didn’t get an email from us
Bolingbrook – The Hanck family keeps growing their display and adding more every year
Bolingbrook — There's a gorilla invasion in Bolingbrook
Channahon – We love it when readers like Heather Vallara go a little crazy with the decorations
Heather tells us there are many houses on her block and in her neighborhood all decked out All Hallows Eve on the east side of Channahon
Stop by on your way to Hollywood Casino just up the road
There are games in the driveway for the kids to play and it’s a great community event to enjoy by all.” Hours are 6 to 10 p.m
Crest Hill – Proud dad Bubba Hotep submitted his daughter Kayli’s yard that attracts gapers in cars or on foot to stop and take picts
side yards and even the interior of the home is completely decorated
Crete – Check out this cool house in Crete
Frankfort – Nothing says Halloween quite like corn and animatronics
is a cemetery and corn field display with animatronics ( more on weekend) that will start on Oct first and run through Halloween
Will be handing out standard candy on Halloween
Haunts On Jon-Kill Lane
Frankfort – The McMahon family has been decorating their yard
People are welcome to roam through their side yards
The haunt features Our family has been doing this for about seven years and the collection gets larger each year
featuring dozens of terrifying animatronics to give a jump scare
“We really enjoy doing this and really hope more come out to see us.”
Scare At Joe's
Frankfort Square – Mike and Joe Wlodarek family friendly haunt has been a fixture in Frankfort Square for 11 years
They will have a kids scavenger hunt with five other homes in the square
Homer Glen – Come if you dare for quite the scare
Beware what may be lurking near and you might just get a treat
Sunday through Thursday dusk till 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday dusk till 11 p.m
Homer Glen – Erin Fiskow is at it again with a walk-thru home haunt filled with animatronics and props where the occasional actor will sometimes pop out
NEW! Haunted Cornfield On Raynor, 258 N. Raynor Ave., Joliet – This year the Reyes family worked really hard on their display starting at the end of July
Cassandra and her fiance have repainted the props
built light fixtures so that the house looks like a movie set
This year they’ll be handing out candy dressed as Mr
Park in the church parking lot across the street
We’re glad these two kids found each other
Joliet - The Walden house is unique because 95 percent of their decorations are cut out and hand painted
The display display lights up at 6:30 and shuts off at 11 p.m
and our neighborhood children look forward to every year
It is our eighth year and with something new added each year," Lisa Walden said
Joliet – The front yard has been taken over by witches and a 12-foot-tall gravedigger to help hide the sacrificed bodies
A 9-foot-tall werewolf protects the cemetery as the 12-foot-tall reaper hovers up high
JOLIET — Thomas Lancaster is a self-taught local artist for more than 30 years
“Everything featured in my yard I have made except for the skeletons
the headless Horseman on top of a life-size horse
Some animatronics and a ton of lights witches
I have over 30 life-size monsters in my yard
The skeletons are swinging their partners round and round a skeleton square dance
Thomas has also added a 15-foot-tall phantom
He's currently working on a pumpkin man playing a guitar
Lights go on 4 until 9 Monday through Thursday; weekends until 11 p.m
Joliet – Emily and Greg Kazak have always enjoyed visiting homes on the scary yard tour with their young children
Patch inspired them to try their hand at putting together a yard haunt
they consider their display “family-friendly” although this giant crow kind of scares us
Joliet – Christine Laage has created a yard haunt in honor of her dog grooming business
Spooky graveyard sounds and the fog machine starts at sundown every weekend
Dog skeletons are eating big skeleton bones
Joliet – Halloween is 16-year-old Justin Kenny’s passion
tells us that her son is “Halloween 365 days a year!” Halloween decor is Justin’s most requested gift for birthdays and Christmas
He even took a part-time seasonal job at Spirit Halloween
with creepy clowns occupying one side of the yard
with a graveyard full of graveyards on the other side that will make you scream
not to be confused with Stanley and Helen Roper
have filled their yard with static and animatronic props
The Ropers have been decorating for over 15 years
Little ones that may be afraid are welcome to visit during the day when everything is quiet
Lockport – This home haunt claims to have the most MASSIVE ghouls set up in the Sagebook subdivision
There’s an entirely new setup this year featuring “Trick” the pumpkin
Sounds of ghosts and howling wolves add to the chilling effect
Lockport – This is Jason Unterborn’s first year on the Patch tour o’ scary yards
The lights are on at dusk until about 10 p.m
The display won't be up and running if the weather is bad
Jason and his family like to dress up and hand out candy to the trick-or-treaters and bring out other props that are usually only inside the house
The yard haunt is open daily from dusk to 10 p.m
Lockport – The Silagyi family boasts the most MASSIVE collection of animatronic ghouls in the Sagebrook subdivision
“Trick” the pumpkin sings and tells jokes to kids (weather permitting)
Voices of ghouls are set to go live the week before and/or the week of Halloween
Lights turn on at about 7:15-ish p.m off at 11-ish p.m
Drive New Lenox – We love this yard haunt for all of its boogery green splendor
has been decorating for over 30 years of every home they’ve lived in from California to New Lenox
“This is the first year he has gone all out with a specific theme.” Nick says his parents will be passing out all the big candy on Halloween
New Lenox – The O’Neills are at it again with a few additions
New Lenox – The Bausch family’s clever display features a haunted graveyard in a former airport
These ghosts have landed at their final destination
2867 Ferro Drive New Lenox – Jeff Eggner’s yard haunt is sure to cause nightmares in children and adults alike
His display features a full frontal facade along with dungeons
gargoyles and unbelievable eerie backdrops you can’t find anywhere else
New Lenox – This frightful and delightful yard features a potpourri of a live monster or two
zombies and an insane asylum – now in its tenth year
New Lenox – This haunted walk-thru and scary yard is lit and ready for visitors
RAVEN HILLS CEMETERY, 224 PRESIDENTIAL BLVD., OSWEGO— This awesome display is all lit up with strobe lights and features animatronics
projector special effects and fog machines
There’s a free walk-thru haunt from 6 to 10 p.m
as well as a traveling carnival/freak show
The Dienoffs are planning a special surprise on Halloween
Oswego – Amber Stults’ Washington Irving-inspired Sleepy Hollow Cemetery-themed haunt features a headless horseman
Ichabod Crane and all their ghoulish friends
to midnight until the weekend after Halloween
A walk-thru is available on weekends and and especially on Halloween for trick-or-treaters
(Don’t know who Washington Irving or Ichabod Crane are
the chilling whispers of the undead beckon you into a nightmarish realm
and wander through the Spooky Skeleton Cemetery
and brave the haunting depths of Werewolf Way
With spine-tingling animatronics and eerie homemade props
this is not just a display—it’s a haunting experience that will linger in your nightmares
in Plainfield – Located in the Pheasant Ridge subdivision
Don Mackowiak has his yard decked out with animatronics
The yard is lit Monday-Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m
Pumpkin Riot, 1702 Whispering Oaks Drive, Plainfield – Brian and Kate Hunter have changed up their display to give people the greatest experience possible
New this year is “Riot Jack” the pumpkin monster
The display also features an evil pumpkin patch infested with scorched witches and giant pumpkin creatures who overlook the whole display
The Hunters will be handing out an assortment of candy and treats this Halloween
Plainfield – Steve Simpson’s creative haunt has grown in size each year
Candy will likely just be the normal “fun sized” Halloween candy
Shorewood – There’s a lot going in this yard including an inflatable Ursula with moving tentacles
a large feline that moves his head back and forth
hanging brooms and a window display with witches and a flaming cauldron and lots of lights
along with their two kids live “everything Halloween.” Their display has expanded over the past 20 years
They’re giving out full size candy bars to the trick-or-treaters on Halloween
Caravia Family Light Show
Sycamore – The Caravia family’s yard haunt in DeKalb County is waterproof so they don’t shut down for rain
This Halloween-themed light show features several props and monsters all synced to music
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2024 at 4:49 pm CT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}The tornado traveled through Elwood
IL — The National Weather Service has confirmed that a path of tornado damage was found in Frankfort
The weather service said a survey crew found a damage path from Channahon to Matteson
The weather service originally classified the tornado as an EF-1
but changed it to an EF-2 after surveying more damage on Wednesday
The tornado started in Channahon at the Illinois River
The weather service said the tornado was on the ground from 9:17 to 9:40 p.m.
and the tornado's path traveled 28.9 miles
112 customers are without power in Frankfort
73 in Frankfort Square and 149 in Frankfort Township
IL — The Frankfort Police Department will host its annual Safety Truck or Treat once again this year
The free family event allows kids to show off Halloween costumes
while safely trick or treating trunk to trunk in the parking lot
Business groups and organizations from the community decorate their cards and hand out treats
2024 at 12:01 pm CT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}The last day to file petitions for the April election was Nov
so the Will County Clerk has released an unofficial list of candidates for school board races
The last day to file petitions for the April election was Nov
According to the Will County Clerk's office
eight people have filed to run for four open 4-year terms on the Board
and two people have filed to run for one unexpired 2-year term
IL — The new Chick-fil-A in Frankfort has officially broken ground this week
as a new building will be built from the ground-up at 20091 S
"We’re thrilled to welcome this beloved restaurant to our community
and new energy to the area," the Village said on its Facebook
The Frankfort Village Board approved the project in July
which includes a new 4,886-square-foot building
The former Steak 'n Shake building at the site was demolished
IL — Summit Hill Junior High School Band Director Kim Coughlin has been selected to receive the Illinois Grade School Music Association’s 2024 Cloyd Myers Memorial Award
who is in her 44th year of teaching in Summit Hill School District 161
was the first full-time band director hired by the district and has spent her entire career sharing music with thousands of SHSD161 students
“Kim has impacted the lives of thousands of students who have ultimately taken their beginning talents and developed them into life-long passions,” said Summit Hill Junior High Principal Laura Goebel
and absolutely dedicated to her career of over 40 years
She is very well-deserving of this honorable recognition
We are so grateful for her continuous contributions to our community
Coughlin has had a positive influence on generations of student-musicians and their families
and her alumni that have gone on to become educators themselves call her a mentor and friend,” reads the nomination submitted by Hilda Walker Beginning Band Director Ed Fitzgerald and Wildcat/Jazz Band Director Jason Collins
Fitzgerald knows first-hand of Coughlin’s influence
He took his first trumpet lessons with Coughlin (then known as Miss Luce) as a student at Frankfort Square School
It is the second year in a row that a Summit Hill School District 161 teacher has received an IGSMA award
Summit Hill Junior High Music Teacher Eric Rehm
a former SHSD161 student of Coughlin’s now in his second year of teaching in the district
received IGSMA’s 2023 Barbara Buehlman Young Conductor Award
“I am blessed to say I am one of the countless students whose life has been changed from having her as a teacher,” said Rehm
“Kim Coughlin is an example to us all of what it means to be a selfless
and I cannot think of anyone more deserving of the IGSMA Cloyd Myers Award!”
“I am humbled and honored to be recognized for what I do
and it’s encouraging to know that it has value and really makes a difference,” said Coughlin
who earned her bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Northern Illinois University
and started the district’s band program as her first job out of college
but it's really nice to be rewarded for all the hard work that you put in.”
Coughlin was recognized at the 86th annual IGSMA State Meeting on Sept
The Cloyd Myers Memorial Award is given to a person who has demonstrated educational excellence in IGSMA activities
Requirements include being a director whose students consistently excel in IGSMA events; an adjudicator who consistently produces excellent comments and suggestions for improvement; and an executive board member who consistently fulfills his or her duties and strives for IGSMA organizational improvement
2024 at 9:27 pm CT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}Summit Hill District 161 parents in November will be asked if they agree with the process late last year behind the Board of Education's decision to close two schools
IL — Summit Hill District 161 parents on Nov
5 will have a chance to formally voice their opinion about how the school board handled the closing of two schools
With a referendum petition request submitted Aug
Mokena resident Patrick Oliphant asks voters their stance on the process behind the shuttering of Arbury Hills and Frankfort Square School
according to a press release from Will County Board Member Daniel Butler
husband of current Summit Hill 161 School Board member Stefanie McCleish
challenging the "validity of several voter signatures on the petition," Butler said
Will County Officers Electoral Board overruled the objection
securing the referendum's place on the ballot
Kevin McCleish spoke with Patch on his reasoning for challenging the petition behind the referendum
"When I saw what the referendum question was
it seemed to me that it was a compound question," McCleish said
"which is in itself problematic when you’re putting a question out there for people to vote."
Because it was proposed as an advisory as opposed to binding referendum
McCleish acknowledged it would be difficult to have the effort overruled entirely
He challenged more than 300 signatures on the petition
Among them: the signees did not live within the district
disqualifying them; one person was believed to have signed for multiple people in a household; some signees were not registered voters
The Will County Clerk's Office sustained 224 of McCleish's objections to signatures
"I knew it would be a long shot to actually get the Will County Clerk to agree with all of my challenges and remove this
because it’s an advisory question," McCleish said
I feel it's incumbent on me to follow through and ensure that the people who are calling for transparency
McCleish said he respects the Will County Clerk's Office ruling
"I respect the Will County Clerk’s decision," he told Patch
"I’m somebody who respects the democratic process."
after an opportunity took him and his family out of the district boundaries
Paul McDermott has staunchly stood by the decision
stating that enrollment numbers dating back to 2009 and projected through 2029 show the district will lose an estimated 1,620 students
we back up our statements," McDermott told Patch in February
"We’re looking at massive enrollment declines that have been coming for years."
Oliphant said in February that he had found holes in the data and information the district cited as reasons for the closings
specifically enrollment projections and the cost of essential repairs to buildings
"It’s not that we’re 100 percent against closing the schools
if that’s truly what’s best for the district and the taxpayers," Oliphant said in February
Oliphant in February hinted that he would continue to fight on behalf of district parents. At the time, he had encountered a sense of defeat lingering in the area, remnants of communities scarred by the closing of Lincoln-Way North High School in 2016
Summit Hill District 161 takes in students from much of the same geographic area
"Not a single person has answered and told me they agree with closing the schools," Oliphant said in February
Many told Oliphant the parent group's efforts wouldn't make a difference
"We choose not to accept that as fact," Oliphant said
"We choose to keep fighting on behalf of the public and taxpayers."
District officials said at the time of the vote to close that they would consider either selling the properties, or working with community partners to ensure they would not go unused. Arbury Hills has since been sold to the Prayer Center Of Orland, for $1.9 million
left only to adjust as the new school year got underway
"This is a great day for parents' rights in education," Butler said
"This school board has continuously disregarded the parents of children in Summit Hill School District….”
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IL — School supplies are already out at local stores
the start of the school year will be here again before we know it
There are still a few weeks left of summer fun
26 for Frankfort District 157-C students in grades K-8
Here's a look at some dates to know for the 24-25 school year:
the Frankfort Village Board approved two special use permits for a Planet Fitness on La Grange Road
would be in the southern portion of the tenant space currently occupied by Bargain Mania in the Frankfort Town Center
Trustee Michael Leddin said during the meeting
which is about half of the existing space of Bargain Mania
The gym facility would have weight training
red light therapy and automated massage chairs
The plan commission had unanimously approved the special use for indoor recreation
several members of the public attended the plan commission meeting and spoke against the project
Planet Fitness had requested 24/7 hours of operation
but amended their application after feedback from the Village Board at a Committee of the Whole meeting on June 12
The amended hours would be 24 hours a day on Monday
Wednesday and Thursday; and midnight to 10 p.m
Trustee Jessica Petrow said there was "a healthy discussion" at the committee of the whole meeting
and added that the parking deficit of 279 spaces in that area was discussed
Mayor Keith Ogle read a summary from staff analysis which discussed parking in the plaza
The summary states that if Planet Fitness and Bargain Mania continue to operate in the plaza
it's generally accepted that this plaza is not deficient based on actual parking demand and could even be considered to have a surplus of parking," Ogle read from the report
Trustee Adam Borrelli said he appreciated the amended hours
but would have liked to see cut back hours during the week as well
especially between midnight and 4 or 5 a.m
The Board voted to approve both special use permits
IL — Chick-Fil-A will build a new location in Frankfort
after the Frankfort Village Board approved the project at its Monday meeting
The Board approved a major change to the Hickory Creek Market Place planned unit development for the redevelopment
and also approved four special use permits for the project
Trustee Maura Rigoni said the former Steak 'n Shake building will be demolished
A 4,886-square-foot building will house the new Chick-fil-A
The approved special use permits were granted to allow for a carry-out restaurant
outdoor seating and extended hours of operation
"I know several people have been waiting very patiently for this to come about,"Mayor Keith Ogle said during the meeting
"We've been working on this for a couple years."
2024 at 1:14 pm CT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}Ozinga will challenge the incumbent mayor
IL — Frankfort resident Justin Ozinga has announced he will run for mayor in the spring consolidated election
and community organizations will benefit from new leadership that is focused on putting the community’s needs before anything else
I’m running for mayor because I’m whole-heartedly committed to ensuring that Frankfort families and businesses will continue to thrive and grow for generations to come
It would be a great honor to serve the people of Frankfort as their next mayor," Ozinga said in a news release
is co-owner and Chief Business Development Officer of Ozinga Bros.
Ozinga provides "quality bulk and custom concrete solutions across the Midwest," according to the business' website
“Many residents and community leaders share my frustrations with the current mayor
we’ve seen too many broken promises and short-sighted decisions that have limited Frankfort’s future
Others have mentioned a lack of transparency and unnecessary divisiveness that prevents our village government from serving the community’s best interests,” Ozinga said in a release
have been married for 25 years and have five daughters
Ozinga has served on multiple local non-profit boards and is an active member of Parkview Christian Church
“The Ozinga family’s mission has always been to make a positive impact on individuals
has been working hard to live up to that mission for nearly 100 years
and I am proud to be a part of a team building up families and communities every day," Ozinga said
heartwarming stories of Ozinga’s impact on the community
Stories like these are humbling and inspiring and help explain why our campaign is building momentum quickly
I look forward to interacting with many more residents and community stakeholders in the coming weeks and months
Please select what you would like included for printing:
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Loving husband of Mary (nee Homerding) Sidler; beloved father of Patricia (John Jr.) Barthel and Dennis (Amy) Sidler
Jeffrey and late Kevin Sidler; cherished grandfather of John III and Jeremy Barthel and Ivie and Ryne Sidler and fond uncle to many nieces and nephews
Dennis was a coach and former President of Frankfort Square Little League and a member of New Voice Club at Loyola Medical Center
A memorial service will be held at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church 177 Luther Lane
In lieu of flowers memorial donations to Parkinson Foundation or American Cancer Society would be appreciated
Funeral arrangements handled by Kurtz Memorial Chapel
www.kurtzmemorialchapel.com or 815-806-2225
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2024 at 4:29 pm CT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}In addition to prison time
Johnson was fined $10,000 and ordered to pay $123,391 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service
and owner of three Chicago-area childcare and transportation businesses has been sentenced to a year in federal prison for underreporting $1.47 million on his income tax returns
Johnson obtained more than $1.47 million of income from the operation of those businesses but failed to report the money on his individual tax returns
Johnson filed individual tax returns for those years but reported lesser W-2 wages and some rental income
The failure to disclose the additional income he received from his businesses resulted in the preparation and filing of materially false individual income tax returns
Johnson also failed to file corporate tax returns or pay any of the required employer and employee withholdings for federal income tax
Johnson pleaded guilty earlier this year to a federal charge of filing a false tax return
In addition to the year-and-a-day prison term
Kennelly on Wednesday fined Johnson $10,000 and ordered him to pay $123,391 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service
IL — A man has been charged with home invasion after an incident in Frankfort Township that started on June 23
according to the Will County Sheriff's Office
interference with reporting of domestic violence
two counts of violation of order of protection
deputies were called to a gas station in Frankfort Township for a disturbance
Schafer punched a bundle of fireworks that was stacked outside the door
causing it to slide back into a large window and break the glass
and the gas station manager told police she would like to press charges for the damages
"Deputies at the scene were also aware that Schafer had an active order of protection in place and that the victim and the gas station were indicated in the order as prohibited," the sheriff's office said
Deputies attempted to find an address for Schafer
The sheriff's office said Schafer spoke very briefly about the incident that had occurred and said that he would pay for the damages
Deputies asked if Schafer would be willing to meet with them to provide a statement
deputies were called to the victim's home in Frankfort Township for an abandoned 911 call
"Based on prior domestic-related contacts with Schafer at that residence and deputies' knowledge of the incident that had occurred approximately six hours prior at the gas station
[deputies] were on high alert of a possible volatile situation occurring," the sheriff's office said
police were notified that a chase was happening between two men
who told police that Schafer had broken through the front door of the home
and began a physical altercation with the victim and her friend
Deputies went to the home to make sure Schafer was not inside
and to secure the safety of three children inside
The victim and her friend told police they were inside the home when they heard Schafer breaking down the front door
The sheriff's office said the victim called 911
but Schafer became physical and wrestled her for the phone
"He then began attacking the friend and pulled out a pocket knife while threatening him," the sheriff's office said
while Schafer followed home holding the knife and threatening to kill him
Schafer stopped chasing the man and returned to the home and argued with the victim outside the home
and found him at a residence in Tinley Park
Schafer will next appear in court on Friday
Several months after Summit Hill District 161 officials voted to close both Arbury Hills and Frankfort Square School
board members last month approved the sale of one of the two buildings
With a minimum asking price of $1.75 million
officials conducted the sale via sealed bids
Bids were due by June 7 at 4 p.m.; the bids were opened on June 10
The property is 250,470 square feet; the school itself is 44,215 square feet
Submitting their bids for the property were:
Frankfort-based Chicago Autism Academy is a private school for children with special needs
The ISBE-approved facility is a fully accredited program for children with Autism Specturm Disorder (ASD)
"We provide services which accommodate the individual needs of each student to promote maximum learning," the website reads
"A variety of empirically based procedures are used including
The Prayer Center of Orland Park is an Islamic worship center
aiming "to worship God through serving people in all their spiritual
educational and social needs by developing and empowering our community on the values of faith
justice and equality." They strive "to be the center of Islamic enrichment and guidance for a prosperous and virtuous society."
Citing declining enrollment while voting to close the two schools
district officials late last year said it would either sell the properties or work with community partners to use the space rather than allow the buildings to sit empty
Parents were disappointed and enraged at what they called abrupt decision-making that lacked public input and proper planning
Board president Jim Martin deflected criticism from the crowd during that Dec
also consistently calling for decorum and threatening to have people removed
McDermott said the board is consulting with the district's attorney to determine next steps
He did not provide a date by which a decision will be reached or announced
IL — Just a few days remain until KidsWork Children's Museum closes its doors in Frankfort
and prepares for its move to its new New Lenox location
Last year, the museum announced it would be leaving Frankfort with a planned move to a newly built, 12,000-square-foot built at the entrance to the New Lenox Commons.
"I have mixed emotions about closing our Frankfort location
I’m immensely grateful for all the support our business community and organizations has given us throughout the years
and many of the downtown businesses," Executive Director Nicole Underwood told Patch
the Museum would’ve never have grown out of our current space without our wonderful members and visitors who have walked through our doors during the past 16 years
we have shared many good times in this place
The museum first opened in Frankfort in 2007 in the Trolley Barn off of White Street
The grand opening for the museum in New Lenox is planned for October
Members can make a reservation to be the first to play at the new facility from Oct
and the official grand opening will be Oct
Underwood said she is "beyond excited" for the new journey with the Village of New Lenox
"They have welcomed us with open arms and have taken great care into ensuring the new building will be accessible and inclusive for all families throughout the region," Underwood said
"One of the best parts is it's only 5 miles west from our Frankfort location
It’s not a goodbye to our Frankfort community
we look forward to seeing many familiar faces at our new home in October."
and an outdoor interactive play and picnic area for families
Tickets may be purchased online beginning in September, with purchase information to come. Check the Village of New Lenox or KidsWork Children's Museum websites for updates
2024 at 9:59 am CT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}An 18-year-old woman from Frankfort was killed in a crash Thursday night in Mokena
IL — A Frankfort woman was killed Thursday night in a two-car crash on Route 30 in Mokena
for a crash involving a Land Rover and a Camaro
Initial reports indicate that the Land Rover was westbound on Route 30
in the left turn lane to turn onto southbound Owens Road
The Land Rover then reportedly turned left into the path of the Camaro
The 18-year-old driver of the Camaro was taken to Silver Cross for head and facial injuries
An 18-year-old female passenger in the Camaro
Her name is being withheld pending release by the Will County Coroner's Office
It is believed that both occupants of the Camaro were not wearing seatbelts
He was issued a citation for failure to yield while turning left
Route 30 was closed in both directions from Wolf Road to Tall Grass Road until 1:40 a.m
An investigation by the Mokena Police Crash Reconstructionist is ongoing
and all eyes are turned to the results of the presidential race of Vice President Kamala Harris against former President Donald Trump
there are also several referenda and races locally and state-wide
Will County State's Attorney James Glasgow is running unopposed
Find a complete list of races and candidates on the Will County Clerk's website
Not sure if you’re registered to vote, or need to change your address? You can find out here. If you aren't registered by Election Day
you'll need to register in person at a grace period registration site
Call ahead to ensure that your polling place offers same-day registration
died when a Camaro she was in collided with a Land Rover Thursday at Route 30 and Owens Road just after 10 p.m
the Will County Coroner's Office said Monday
She was pronounced dead at the scene at 12:22 a.m
was taken to Silver Cross for head and facial injuries
Police said that both occupants of the Camaro were not wearing seatbelts
to the crash involving a Land Rover and a Camaro
A GoFundMe started in support of Miller's family has raised $16,000 as of Monday
"We are crushed and can’t think straight," family wrote in the fundraiser
Courtney was going to start college on Monday
"Words cannot describe the amount of love and pain we feel right now
always will hold a special place in all of the hearts of the lives of the people whose lives she touched."
2024 at 12:19 pm CT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}Incumbent Sen
Michael Hastings seeks to retain his seat in the Illinois Senate's 19th District
(Courtesy of Michael Hastings/Courtesy of JC Penney)ILLINOIS — Election Day is almost upon us
and while the presidential race of Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump is the biggest race on the ticket
there are several local races and referenda to keep an eye on as well
The race for Illinois' 19th State Senate impacts a large portion of Cook and some of Will County
Michael Hastings taking on newcomer Samantha Gasca
Hastings points to rising property taxes and threats to constituents' civil liberties as among the most pressing issues the district faces
"Increasing property taxes are burdening residents
making it essential to improve education funding while addressing tax mismanagement," Hastings wrote in his Patch candidate questionnaire
Key issues in his platform include education funding
Hastings also supports ensuring women’s autonomy over healthcare decisions
Read his full candidate questionnaire
Newcomer and New Lenox resident Samantha Gasca seeks to tackle corruption in the Illinois government
She says that at the forefront of issues facing constituents are the cost of living
independent audits of all governmental agencies within the 19th Senate District (to start)," she said in her questionnaire
"I believe in small government, freedom of speech, and constitutional rights," Gasca wrote.On her campaign website
Gasca says she will "work tirelessly to promote entrepreneurship
Gasca also pinpoints prioritizing accessible healthcare
pushing for increased funding for public schools
and additional police officers hired as ways she hopes to address key issues facing the territory
Read her full candidate questionnaire
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Frankfort Square Elementary School will close after this school year
Arbury Hills School in Mokena is slated to close in the summer
The Summit Hill District 161 School Board voted to close a pair of schools in December
The board re-visited the decision in a special meeting on Feb
7 and voted not to rescind its original vote and more than 100 community members at the district's Frankfort administrative center continued to fume
Despite yelling and interruptions and gavel banging and threats by School Board President Jim Martin to remove people
Superintendent Paul McDermott explained why the district plans to close Arbury Hills Elementary School in Mokena and Frankfort Square Elementary school
Among the reasons was projected district enrollment of 2,100 students in 2029
down from 2,433 now and more than 3,600 15 years ago
The two school selected for shuttering were based on age and size
built in 1960 (Arbury Hills) and 1973 (Frankfort Square),” he said
“They are the smallest schools in the district with the least number of classrooms and the least number of students currently in attendance.’’
The vote was 4-2 not to rescind with Martin
Katie Campbell and Joy Murphy leading the way
who voted against closing the two schools Dec
Martin said at the top of the meeting that Carey moved out of the district and a replacement is expected to be named by mid-March
Audience members had a total of 30 minutes to speak to the board before McDermott’s presentation and the vote
They were angered about a host of issues involved with the closing
One parent said there were studies that indicated underperformance of students from schools that were closed
“It is essential that you rescind your vote,” she said
the parents and the people who elected you
You are trying to kill our property values
our spirits and ruin our educational system.”
She added that supporters of the schools “will not go away,” and someone will be watching “every single move from here on out.”
Parents presented the board with 1,128 signatures to keep the schools open and parent Patrick Oliphant noted “the amount of signatures we received in less than a month is more than votes four board members received to sit up here an represent us.”
A common theme of complaints was that the board and administration was not being transparent about the school closings
McDermott countered that this has been under discussion since February 2020
Winter said he said that sitting in the minority on an issue is not fun and respects everyone’s view
but he thought this should have been a longer process before making a decision
“If I was going to take my children and move across the country
I would definitely let my kids know for a much longer period of time,” he said
The plan is for the schools to close in the summer
“Our intention is to not let buildings sit empty,” McDermott said
we’ve had no discussions with the Lincoln-Way Area Special Education cooperative but have entertained interest from other parties
“We’re in the process of having the buildings appraised and will follow the processes outlined by the board’s attorney to solicit interest without prematurely scaring off a party.”
Orland Fire Protection District and the Tinley Park Fired Department have joined a new CAD-to-CAD system that will improve emergency response…
And they are going to change the face of downtown Frankfort
area teams did not bring home any top-3 trophies in the state competitive cheerleading competition
Lincoln-Way East shows pride in grad Nick Allegretti
who just won his third Super Bowl with the Kansas City Chiefs
A post-game celebration marked senior night for Lincoln-Way East and the Griffins snapping a losing streak in basketball
It's ladle's down and the winners have been chosen in the fifth annual Orland Township Souper Bowl Challenge
It was a bear-y good day for the students at the Lt
Coletta’s of Illinois when the Chicago Bears mascot showed up
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2024 at 9:34 am CT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}The plans call for a new building to be built at 20091 S
which is part of the Hickory Creek Marketplace
IL — Plans for a Chick-Fil-A in Frankfort continue to move forward after a plan commission meeting last week
Mayor Keith Ogle said the project will go before the plan commission again in June
and should come to the Frankfort Village Board in July
The plans call for a new building to be built at 20091 S
and a new building built," Ogle said on Facebook
The lot currently has a 4,500-square-foot Steak n Shake building
A 4,886-square-foot building for Chick-Fil-A would be constructed
The project would include four special use permit requests for a carry-out restaurant
the closest Chick-Fil-A locations to Frankfort are in Orland Park
District officials last week approved a resolution authorizing the sale of Arbury Hills
Officials are conducting the sale via sealed bids
giving the building a capacity of 456 students
district officials said it would either sell the property or work with community partners to use the space rather than allow the buildings to sit empty
Parties interested in buying the property must submit a sealed bid including a cashier's check or bank check for $10,000
which will be returned if the bid is not accepted
and should be sent or delivered to the Office of the Superintendent
The bids will be opened June 10 at 10 a.m.
in the public meeting room also at 20100 S
Bidders do not need to be present and will be contacted after the bid opening
2024 at 12:30 pm CT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}Summit Hill District 161 parents are furious after encountering numerous busing issues in the first week of school
IL — Parents in Summit Hill District 161 are anxiously waiting for the district's bussing service to right itself
after a tumultuous start and numerous issues the first week of school
Issues including bus stops moved without notice
prolonged trips and delayed communications have parents stewing
wondering how things went so drastically wrong and demanding accountability from the District and bus company Safeway Transportation
"Buses never showed up to pick up kids," said Lisa Brace
and the buses drove around the neighborhood for an hour and a half to two hours
Parents were calling asking where their kids were."
While some kinks are expected in the first days of the school year
the ones experienced by District 161 parents far exceed that
"We certainly give grace for 10 to 15 minutes
Julian Rogus School—like Kim Rosenthal's kindergartner—were kept on buses for two hours
then dropped back at the school with delayed directives for their parents to pick them up
we opted to take the bus home (Safeway bus company)
and our school communication app has our stop scheduled for 4:21 p.m.," Rosenthal wrote to Patch
The bus had brought some children back to school."
"That was the answer I got over the course of two hours when my kid was supposed to be delivered home."
She called the school several times—4:36 p.m.
"I was told all four times that the route was running but was late," she said
"I was advised to contact the administration center for the district
To say that I waited anxiously for my child is an understatement."
It appeared the school had been in contact with Safeway
but that Safeway was not in contact with its drivers
Rogus School serves students in kindergarten through fourth grade
"All anyone could tell me is that the route was still running but behind schedule," she said
but no one had any other information to offer
wondering where the hell my kid was and why the school couldn’t tell me."
an app intended to track buses hadn't yet been activated
"The school and bus company offered their apologies to District 161 families
but how can I trust either organization is going to get my kid home to me in a reasonable amount of time?" she wrote in an email to Patch
This is Rosenthal's first child in the school district
She wanted to stress the school staff's kindness toward her throughout the experience
"I don’t blame the staff at Rogus," she said
Rosenthal's child seemed unfazed by the experience
but Rosenthal knows it could be scarring for others
"They were living their best life on the bus for two hours
She has currently opted to pick their child up from school
She is skeptical of the problems being solved in the short-term
Her trust in the bussing service has been shaken
"You have a certain level of trust with your community school district," she said
I’m waiting for this to iron out to see where we are."
parents have demanded answers and action from district officials
Paul McDermott on Monday told Patch the district is working with Safeway to remedy the issues
"We have had transportation issues throughout the beginning of the school year and are working diligently with Safeway to address them," McDermott said
understanding our parents and students have been more than patient and deserve better service
We are seeing improvements and are hopeful these will continue."
Safeway issued a statement via email Tuesday
our top priority is the safety and well-being of the families we serve," the company said
we have made daily improvements to ensure our level of service is at its highest
our company has undergone some unexpected leadership changes and continues to face the consistent driver shortages that plague the school bus industry nationwide
who has worked in student transportation for more than 20 years
and our team remain committed to our customers and are working diligently to make this transition seamless
"We commend the Summit Hill School District staff for going above and beyond to assist the Safeway leadership and dispatch teams in mitigating the unforeseen circumstances of the last week
We thank them for their continued partnership and have promised that changes will immediately be made to earn back the trust of our District 161 families."
ahead of district officials' decision to close both Arbury Hills School in Mokena
The closings created an influx of students being bused to their respective schools
Brace and other concerned parents had urged officials to look at transportation plans that would reflect the new district environment with two fewer schools
Brace was among those frustrated that the vote to close the schools felt rushed
when they pushed the vote without ever producing that study," she said
it should have been something that he paid attention to
McDermott on Monday said the issues were not related to the school closings
Initial bussing issues have been the norm in the district
Rogus parent Erica Petro said—but nothing like what she's seen this year
Petro's daughter is in third grade at Rogus
"One of the main things that everybody was concerned about
was getting all the kids to Rogus," Petro told Patch
whose daughter suffered heat stroke after being left for an hour as a kindergartner in 2021
said she's frustrated to see more issues this year
Petro's daughter's pickup time was changed
When she and other concerned parents contacted Safeway
the 10 students from that Hickory Creek subdivision were moved to the most problematic stop—one near the Hickory Creek Metra station
Petro said she's not sure where the issues originate
but that everyone seems to be unwilling to be held accountable
"I honestly couldn’t tell you where the problem is
and that’s the frustrating part," she said
I don’t care whose fault it was—we can deal with it later—can we just get the kids safely to school and back?"
Petro said her daughter has anxiety around school
and Petro has tried to keep her experiences positive
"We’ve opted to not let her take the bus home," Petro said
I just don’t trust them to take her home."
Brace said the breakdown in communication between the schools
but she also doesn't entirely blame the drivers
"There is no reason a bus should be out of reach from dispatch
there is no reason that bus driver should not know every student that gets on and off those buses," she said
Kids so young they don’t know their addresses yet
I can imagine what a setup for failure they’re in."
Brace is critical of McDermott's management of the transportation plans
"There’s no reason we can’t invest in safe transportation for our children," she said
"That’s not a place parents in our community want to cut corners
2024 at 5:59 pm CT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}Arbury Hills School was listed for sale via sealed bid process
with a minimum asking price of $1.75 million
IL — The shuttered Arbury Hills School has gone to the highest bidder
with officials this week signing off on the sale
District officials have not said how they plan to use the proceeds
The Prayer Center of Orland Park aims "to worship God through serving people in all their spiritual
The center's leadership plans to keep the building a school
using the space for early childhood education classes
Prayer Center board member and its attorney
Nofal said the prayer center had originally hoped to expand on its current campus in Orland Park
but construction costs deemed that unfeasible
They'd been looking for other buildings for years
They wanted any expansion building to be as close as possible to the current campus
He estimates Arbury Hills is less than a 10-minute drive
and the building will require minimal updates
He said many of the center's members are from Mokena
happy to provide these services to our community members," Nofal said
Citing declining enrollment while voting to close Arbury Hills and Frankfort Square School, district officials late last year said it would either sell the properties or work with community partners to use the space rather than allow the buildings to sit empty
nor do you want to see a building empty and just sitting there
"We’re happy that this building’s not going to miss a beat."
Now in progress are plans for the use of Frankfort Square School
McDermott said the district is in talks with the Frankfort Square Park District
which would potentially lease-to-own the property
we are working on it," McDermott told Patch
"We are hoping to have something to present to the Board by the August meeting."
The next Board of Education meeting is scheduled for Aug
2023 at 8:08 pm CT.css-79elbk{position:relative;}Drones
ground search and off-road vehicles were used in the search for Luis Padilla
whose remains were discovered by a dog-walker on Thursday
(Will County Sheriff's Office)FRANKFORT
IL — Two months after he was reported missing
a dog-walker discovered the skeletal remains of 55-year-old Frankfort Square resident Luis Padilla
the Will County Sheriff's Office said Saturday
Deputies responded to the 21300 block of River Road in Frankfort just after 11:30 a.m
Thursday to a report of a body that was found
Police said a resident was walking his dog in the area of Woodvale and River roads when the dog got loose from its leash and ran off into the woods
The dog led the man to the skeletal remains
found in a heavily wooded area off the road
Police said the remains were scattered over a large area due to animal activity
deputies found a light blue bicycle that matched the description of Padilla's
Authorities were able to identify Padilla due to clothing recovered at the scene as well as Padilla's wallet
which was found nearby with his identification
Sheriff Mike Kelley and the entire Will County Sheriff's Department extended their condolences to Padilla's family
Padilla’s family and friends during this difficult time," the sheriff's office said
"This is an unfortunate conclusion to a several month’s long investigation
which was assisted by numerous law enforcement agencies and search and rescue partners."
Kelley also thanked the agencies and volunteers who helped search for Padilla
Related: No New Evidence After Saturday's Search For Frankfort Square Man
Padilla was last seen leaving his home on North Avenue in Frankfort Square between 10 and 11 a.m
Police said his remains were discovered several miles away from his home and were not along his usual bike route
Padilla's remains were turned over to the Will County Coroner's Office so an autopsy can be conducted to determine his cause and manner of death
after they quickly ducked out of the room following a 4-3 vote to move forward with shuttering the two buildings
Angry shouts and expletives exploded from a crowded boardroom at the Summit Hill District 161 administration building Wednesday night after the board pushed through a measure to close Arbury Hills School in Mokena and Frankfort Square School
"You have awakened the bear in a lot of parents," said parent Tara Tomasek
and figure out what we need to do what to get you out of here."
The board of education—noting declining enrollment and empty classrooms at schools—has said for months that it would need to close two schools
The district once boasted an enrollment of more than 3,600 students
which prompted district officials to begin to consider how many school buildings are needed
Among the issues that the district has considered in pondering the closures is student equity
District officials have said they have seen student achievement testing drop when students are brought back together as fifth graders at Walker Intermediate School
"This again brings forth questions as to whether each and every (student) is being exposed to the same experiences and education," the district said in its frequently asked questions section on its website
After more than a dozen commenters—some of them Arbury Hills students with shaking hands and tears in their eyes—board members marched ahead in an agenda that would include the school closings
Parents implored the board to give the matter more time and research
provide better evidence of the need to close two schools and explore other options to get the money they need to make necessary repairs to buildings
board member Amy Berk asked to table the matter to a later date; board member Matt Carey seconded that
Carey decried the board's actions leading up to the vote
Following several previously held public hearings
20 meeting—seemingly without much notice to board members
the way this was put out in our agenda was an absolute despicable act," Carey said
Voting yes to closing the schools were board members Stefanie McCleish and Katie Campbell
along with President Jim Martin and vice president Joy Murphy; voting against the closing were board members Berk
"I took a personal oath to make sure I make decisions to maximize the quality of education for all our students," board member McCleish said
Citing time spent in all the district's schools
"I do feel that I have done my due diligence."
"You should be ashamed of yourselves!" parents shouted following the vote
flashing both middle fingers at the board members
"This gets stinkier and stinkier every time we peel back a layer
you have done the absolutely bare minimum required by law
2022 at Franciscan Health in Olympia Fields
Loving wife of Michael Labaj; beloved mother of Trishia (Richard) Krupa
and Mary Rose (Phillip) Warbiany; dearest sister of Kathy Donnelly
the late Pam (late Robert) Bankhead and Michael (Sue) Wayda; cherished grandmother of Connor and Austin Labaj
She was preceded in death by her parents Stanley and Rosemary (Rund) Wayda
The family will receive friends at Kurtz Memorial Chapel
October 6th in the funeral home chapel at 10:00 AM
Interment will follow to Skyline Memorial Park in Monee
has become a therapeutic mainstay at Frankfort Square School
Frankfort Square School welcomed Davis right after Thanksgiving
Classes were scheduled to be back in session at Frankfort Square School Jan
students and a dog had a chance to recharge their batteries during a two-week holiday break
the Frankfort school has a therapy dog named Davis
She needed the break just as much as the school's other employees and attendees
school officials say the Golden Retriever gives it her all and definitely earns her keep
absorbs the emotions of students and staff every time she dons her vest for duty
she comes to school and gets her vest on and she’s a working dog again.”
Davis participates with student groups throughout the day
spends time greeting students in the morning
makes appearances in the hallways and at the end of the day helps teachers and staff members relieve their stress
She even made an appearance at the school’s holiday show
helping students de-stress before performing and greeting parents and grandparents
“Something to keep in mind is that working dogs keep working and working and working,” Frankfort Square Principal Jason Isdonas said
“Anyone who has a dog knows they sleep a lot
Davis is on call the moment she gets out of the car to the moment she gets back in the car
a kid could come down to Kelly’s office and
Davis has to get up and she has to go to work
she can take a nap for three minutes and then she’s right back up
Frankfort Square had been visited by a therapy dog named Sunny
Summit Hill School District 161’s former occupational therapist
Fields had raised puppies for Heartland Service Dogs
a nonprofit based in Mokena that provides custom-trained service dogs to people with disabilities
Davis spent three years in training rather than the usual 18 months and had to get used to her new digs
“She had to learn the sights and smells of a new building,” Isdonas said
“She will hear an electric pencil sharpener go off
That’s the first time she ever heard that and she’s looking like ‘what is that?' She’s still working through those things even though she is thoroughly trained.”
Davis proved to be a valuable employee within her first 15 minutes on the job
Isdonas said a student did not want to get out of the car to come to school that day
her eyes just lit up and she went up to Kelly and asked if she could see Davis,” he said
Robinson said that the student petted Davis
but then went back to the car and started crying again
“I brought Davis over to the parent and child and asked her if she wanted to walk into class with Davis,” Robinson said
“She stopped crying immediately and was like ‘yep.’
“She helped hold the leash and we walked down to her room
Other kids started saying ‘Can Davis walk me to class?’ The student was fine the rest of the day.”
While Davis is still getting used to the school
The goal is to get her stamina up to work all five days because she is missed on her days off
Davis has become a valued member of the Frankfort Square team
but it’s beyond the positive impact that we thought it would have,” Robinson said
Lincoln-Way East was double trouble during the holidays to close out 2022
“Clinic of the Future” brings state of the heart cardiac care to Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital
The bad news for Prairie View Middle School eighth grade girls basketball coach Jeff Mahy is that he won’t be coaching Aaliyah Flores any more
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Meta Mueller has been elected to serve the first year as president of the Forest Preserve District of Will County Board of Commissioners
The Cook County clerk's office is teaming up with the Chicago Wolves to offer county veterans
active-duty military and reservists and Nationa…
the Orland Park Public Works Department has reminders for residents
Nova Quarter Horses hosted its annual Spring Fling May 4
when students at the New Lenox stables got a taste of horse-show competition in 27 events