Hawthorn District 73 candidates share goals

If running a school district was as simple reading, writing and arithmetic, life might be a little less complicated. But there are all those other pesky things like budgets, tax revenues and state test scores, for starters.

Four candidates are aiming to tackle these issues as they run for three open seats in Hawthorn Elementary District 73 in the April 7 election. These are four-year terms.

We asked the office seekers to detail their goals for the district and the students.

Public relations professional and incumbent board member Donna Gaidamak has three priorities.

"We need to take a hard look at fiscal projections in light of current economics," she said. "In addition, we must continue the work that's gone into a smooth transition between our outgoing superintendent and our new one. And we always need to continue to improve communications."

Theresa Calabrese, a training manager at Allstate Insurance Co., believes educational strides can be made best when everyone is working together.

"There must be a strong relationship between the school board, administrations and parents. Harmony must be achieved," she said. "When there is conflict, everything slows down and it leads to blame."

Candidate Julie Weiler says everyone needs to stay focused on learning and testing.

"We need to strive for consistent quality education aligned with state standards," she said. Weiler also said she believes it's important for the board to act as a liaison between the staff and parents.

"The board needs to act as a connection between the school administration and the community by remaining transparent in the decision making process," Weiler said.

Incumbent board president Timothy Shanahan said he wants top notch-students and sound fiscal policy.

"We need to complete our goal of learning for all with 100 percent achievement using ISAT local assessment and IEP, if applicable," he said. "We need to maintain a balanced budget minimizing the need to tap into our reserves."

Candidate Anne Hoffman has dropped out of the race, but her name will still appear on the ballot.