Etienne, Maloney, Warren and Hutchinson endorsed for Lake Zurich District 95 board

Seven Lake Zurich Community Unit School District 95 candidates seek four open board positions on April 1. All are qualified for the seat and would serve the students well. Incumbents Peter Etienne, Eileen Maloney and Lisa Warren face challengers Frederic Hutchinson, Sally Knutson Dana Lee Marioballi and Alicia Timm.

Two situations testing the board’s control lie ahead: possible elimination of the U.S. Department of Education and federal efforts to implement bans on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs. Non-compliance could result in loss of federal funding.

Incumbents Etienne, Maloney and Warren agree that national recognition is valuable. The high school has earned a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence and a Green Ribbon School District Sustainability award. Middle School North is also a Blue Ribbon recipient. The awards are awarded on the federal level.

Miroballi wants to protect special education programs and subsequent student needs. Timm trusts state and district leaders will take care of the most vulnerable students. Kutsor says the district is in a strong position, with a clear mission and vision to execute the strategic plan. Hutchinson states an organization like the Department of Education is needed to lead the way and intervene where districts are misguided on decisions for vulnerable student groups.

The candidates agree that all students will fare well even if DEI programs are cut. Etienne says the values of cultural competence and equity will continue. Maloney says the soul of the board can’t be diminished when valuing each learner. DEI is part of the district’s daily operation, Warren says, and Miroballi wants all students to be truly seen, heard and served. DEI is not a bad word, Timm says, and all students should have access to a quality education. Kutsor agrees that students should be empowered to achieve educational excellence. Finally, Hutchinson wants the district to do what’s right, stand on strong values and principles and work on cultural affirmation.

Among a field of worthy candidates, we particularly like the experience and continued commitment of incumbents Etienne, Maloney and Warren. To supplement them, we value Frederic Hutchinson’s passion for education and diverse perspective. Hutchinson and the three incumbents are endorsed.