Another Dist. 204 board member signs up as a substitute teacher

Another Indian Prairie Unit District 204 school board member is joining the ranks of substitute teachers in the district.

Five months after board President Laurie Donahue announced her intention to become a substitute teacher to help address and draw attention to a shortage in the district, fellow board member Allison Fosdick requested and received permission from her colleagues to do the same.

Fosdick didn't address the topic during last month's board meeting but recently she provided a statement about the opportunity.

"I'm inspired by President Donahue's example of hands-on problem solving, and it's a privilege to be able to contribute by substitute teaching," she said.

The unanimous approval from the board allows Fosdick to earn up to $1,000 during the 2022-23 school year. If she wishes to continue after reaching that limit, she'll need to request permission for another $1,000.

According to District 204 Executive Director of Communication Services Lisa Barry, as of the spring the district had fewer than 600 substitute teachers. With 2,000 licensed teachers and the desire of a 2-1 ratio with subs, District 204 ideally would have 1,000 substitute teachers.

Donahue praised Fosdick for providing an example she hopes others in the community will follow. She said other board members also have talked to her about becoming substitute teachers.

"I think your help as a substitute will be greatly appreciated in the district," Donahue said. "I know I've found it very rewarding.

"I'm pleased, and welcome to the substitute group."

Fosdick, an English professor at Aurora University, was first elected to the school board in 2021.

"As an educator, I find being in the classroom a pleasure and I'm looking forward to the experience," she said.