District 96 Board Member Steps Down

is seeking School Board applicants following the resignation of Don Shannon. Shannon, a board member since 2001, stepped down Tuesday night.

“Since joining the Board in May 2001, Mr. Shannon has been highly regarded for his acute understanding of the fiscal workings of the District and his thoughtful and practical approach to the business of the Board of Education,” District 96 posted Tuesday night on its website. “A successful entrepreneur in his personal life, Mr. Shannon has been a diligent steward of District finances. His wholehearted commitment to ensuring that District 96 continues to be a high-achieving, low-spending school district was evident in discussions he led and decisions he made as a Board member. His key roles in the District’s most recent – and successful – referendums in 1998, 2001 and 2006 demonstrate his keen understanding of school finance and his long-term vision for the District’s sound financial future.”

“Throughout his years on the Board, he consistently assessed options based on the merits of an issue–not clouded by personal emotion, but with singular focus on the welfare of students, teachers, and the community,” Superintendent Julie Schmidt wrote in the district's notice to citizens and the media. “Don’s respect for the work of children and their teachers is evident. His rational, fact-based perspective focuses discussion meaningfully and he unites Board members in their mission to equip our students to grow academically and socially/emotionally and our staff to develop as professionals.”

Shannon was also praised by School Board President Marc Tepper, who described him as “the mortar in the structure that is District 96 – ensuring that our financial base is enduring and that Board actions have strong connection to the District’s mission of equipping children to achieve their maximum potential.”

“He has the regard and respect of every District 96 Board member fortunate enough to have served alongside him,” Tepper continued. “We will miss him, indeed.”

The district's statement said that Shannon's resignation is effective immediately. It did not include a reason for the board member's departure.

The School Board will appoint a new member, who will serve for the remaining year of Shannon’s term. Applications will be accepted until April 27, with a new board member expected to be appointed in May. The appointee will serve until April 2013.

The district’s application is attached. Visit the District 96 website for more information.