Dist. 125 incumbents allow bullying

As an adult, I thought I had reached the bully-free zone, where I would be free to engage in community dialogue without fear of retaliation or marginalization. I was wrong.

I spoke briefly at a District 125 school board meeting two years ago. When I finished, I submitted a full written transcript of my statements to the D125 office, to be archived in the meeting minutes.

Twenty-one months later, in the midst of the highly spirited District 125 school board campaign, I was shocked to find an extremely-edited version of my statement attached to e-mails that were widely disseminated by supporters of the United4Stevenson candidates. My statements were pulled out of context. And, certain phrases were highlighted in red to provide talking points for a campaign that’s become notorious for slinging mud.

However, what’s most disconcerting is that this document added to my edited comments my spouse’s name; our home address; our children’s names; and their class years! I suppose it wasn’t enough to merely misrepresent my comments; this group had to target my home, spouse, and children, as well.

In addition, a students’ group Facebook page, “Students United4Stevenson,” has also circulated and broadcast this content.

The adults responsible for this act of intimidation should be ashamed of themselves. Targeting children and families is no way to win an election and retain power. Stevenson High School has been publicly lauded for its efforts in “Social and Emotional Learning.” Yet, the incumbent school board members have sat by silently while their campaign engages in outright bullying.

I call on the incumbents to rein in their supporters and begin adhering to the Illinois Election Board’s Code Of Fair Campaign Practices. This must stop.

Mark W. Elsesser

Buffalo Grove