District 96 Board Member Resigns

School District 96 is seeking applicants for a vacant School Board position, after Victoria Juster announced her resignation Sept. 7.

Juster's work over the past 11 years has included roles on the district's policy, oversight, and Assuring the Essentials committees, and she served as a voting delegate at the Illinois Association of School Boards Joint Conference.

Since her election in April 1999, Juster helped to pass two building referendums and an education fund referendum, restructure debt to save the taxpayers more than $5.5 million, and complete a facility audit

"In my years in the district and, more recently, as superintendent, I have appreciated Mrs. Juster's unflagging support and enthusiasm for the work we do. She has wholeheartedly supported opportunities for professional development and collaboration to equip teachers to help all our students succeed," Superintendent Julie Schmidt said in a statement released by the district Tuesday night, following Juster's resignation in a closed-session meeting.

Marc Tepper, District 96 Board president, said Juster was well respected as a board member. "Indeed, the District community and our students and staff have been well served by Vicki, who thoughtfully weighed what's best for our students and teachers before casting her vote on a Board action. She has contributed selflessly and significantly to make School District 96 the premier district it has become."

District 96 is now seeking applicants to fill Juster's position until April 5, 2011, when the term expires. Applications, which are available here, will be accepted until Sept. 21.