Dist. 2 seeks candidates for school board vacancy

Bensenville Elementary District 2 is searching for a candidate to fill a vacancy on the school board.

Charles "Chuck" Erickson, who has served on the school board since 2001, resigned earlier this month.

"I think Chuck brought a lot to the table," board President Patty Reyes said Wednesday. "It's unfortunate he had to step down. He did a fine job. It will be hard to replace him."

Erickson, an executive from Addison, said he stepped down for personal business reasons.

"It's a time consuming job," Erickson said about serving on the school board. "But public service is interesting … I think over the past four years we've accomplished a lot of things."

Erickson said he's proud of how smoothly teacher contract negotiations went last year. In addition, he served on the board when voters approved a $40 million bond issue to replace the district's three oldest schools and finish renovation work at Blackhawk Middle School.

"The increase in funding has been used to improve student achievement," he said.

The school board now is accepting applications for Erickson's replacement. Board members are planning to host a special meeting Feb. 6 to consider candidates.

"Obviously we're looking for someone who has the best interest of the students in mind," Reyes said. "Someone willing to work with the administration and to take into account the other taxing bodies (that we deal with)."

Those interested in applying for the position can obtain an application at the administrative center, 210 S. Church Road, Bensenville.

Applicants must live in the district that serves Bensenville, Wood Dale and Addison. For details, call (630) 766-5940.