Ross, Rubenstein, Lefar prevail in District 102

Eight-year incumbent Ellyn Ross was the leading vote-getter Tuesday in the race for three seats in Aptakisic-Tripp Elementary District 102.

Ross polled 1,247 votes in unofficial vote tallies to win another term.

Newcomer Alan J. Rubenstein finished with the next highest total, 1,095, while incumbent Steven Lefar tallied 984 votes.

Non-incumbent Scott Linn lost, managing only 822 votes.

Ross acknowledged that issues were not a major factor in the race’s outcome.

She said she has built a large network of people through her years in the district who know her passion for education and for children.

“I don’t think one issue sets me apart from anyone else (running),” she said.

Ross said she plans to help keep the district moving along the path of success, focusing on policy and strategic planning, as well as hiring and supporting the best people.

Rubenstein, a parent of two daughters in the district, said of his finish, “I think that people knew more than anything that my heart was in the right place. I’m gratified. I’m pleased, but I’m ready to get to work.”

Rubenstein added that the district owes a big debt of gratitude to Jeff Newman, who stepped down from the board after serving 20 years.

“There are huge shoes to fill there,” he said.

Linn said he was disappointed but, “I ran the kind of campaign that I wanted to.” Linn praised those who worked on what he called his grass-roots campaign.