Gatta, Engelkemeir, Mueller win in Hawthorn District 73

The Vernon Hills-based Hawthorn District 73 board will have a fresh look with three political newcomers winning seats Tuesday.

Louis E. Gatta, general manager at Niles Central High School; Jeanne Engelkemeir, a former teacher who works part-time as a French translator; and Ghita Mueller, a Realtor, swept to victory. Candidate Sangita Parande, a former banker, finished fourth in the race for three 4-year seats. Current board members Tim Shanahan, Julie Weiler and Theresa Calabrese did not seek re-election.

With all 28 precincts reporting, unofficial results showed Gatta leading with 761 votes, followed by Engelkemeir with 733 votes and Mueller with 674 votes. Parande trailed with 427 votes.

Gatta said a rigorous curriculum, quality teaching and a balanced budget were his main issues. He said his strength would be communication and connecting with the community.

Engelkemeir listed strong educational opportunities and spreading resources fairly among the different student and program needs as her top goals.

Mueller said her business background would be an asset to the school board.

Parande said she did not have a specific motivating issue but has lived in the community for 10 yeas and wanted to contribute.