District 21 board member resigns, replacement sought

Wheeling Township Elementary District 21 is looking for a new board member to replace Dagmara Kalinowski, who recently resigned.

Kalinowski, director of business strategy for Discover Financial Sciences in Northbrook, said the decision to step down was not easy, but necessary so she can concentrate more on her professional and personal obligations.

Board President Jessica Riddick thanked Kalinowski for her service to the community.

“Her unwavering support for our schools helped direct policy and improve communications on many levels and I’m grateful for the time and effort she invested to advance the mission of D21,” Riddick said.

Kalinowski was elected to a four-year term in April 2023, so her replacement will serve until the April 2027 election.

Applications from interested candidates — available at https://bit.ly/4g6n2Rl — are due back by 3 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 1, at the district office or by e-mailing district21@ccsd21.org. Applicants must be citizens of the United States, at least 18 years old, registered voters, and residents of the state of Illinois and District 21 for at least a year before the time of appointment.

The remaining six school board members will meet in closed session to make a selection by Nov. 2.