Cops probing message left for Grayslake D46 board member

Authorities are investigating what a Grayslake Elementary District 46 board member says was a threatening telephone message left for her last weekend over the now-concluded teachers strike.

Shannon Smigielski reported to Grayslake police the obscenity-laced message was received about 11:45 p.m. Saturday. Using a menacing tone, the man could be heard on the recording saying he wanted the teachers strike settled, called Smigielski a liar and claimed he “would really hate to see what happens” to her daughters at school when he directs his children to taunt them.

Police Chief Phil Perlini said a report was filed regarding the telephone message Smigielski considered threatening toward her young daughters. He said more information won't be released while the case is actively investigated.

Smigielski said she intends to pursue charges if an arrest is made. She said she'll offer a $500 reward to whomever reveals the caller's identity to police if the investigation comes up empty.

“It lacked complete civility,” Smigielski said of the call. “It was a real violation to my family's feeling of safety and security in our own home and going to school.”

District 46 and the Lake County Federation of Teachers union forged a tentative agreement on an employment contract during negotiations led by a federal mediator early Monday, ending the three-day strike. Classes for District 46 students resume Tuesday.

Smigielski was elected to a four-year term on the District 46 board in 2011. Her platform included a need for ethical and attentive public servants, fiscal responsibility and transparency.