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Superintendent-sharing deal a top concern for Mundelein High District 120 candidates

An unusual superintendent-sharing deal with another district and student safety are among the top concerns of the candidates for the Mundelein High School District 120 board.

Four people are running for three seats with 4-year terms in the April 2 election: incumbents Joanne Anderson and Jane Siegal; and challengers Lisa Yaffe and Peter B. Rastrelli. All four either live in Mundelein or just outside the village limits.

The candidates spoke about the issues facing the school and other matters in questionnaires for the Daily Herald.

Anderson, who joined the board in 2011 and serves as its president, said the biggest issue facing the district is a plan to share a superintendent with Mundelein Elementary School District 75 starting this fall.

Under the deal, Mundelein High Superintendent Kevin Myers also will lead the District 75 administration. Both districts will contribute to his salary and benefits.

The two district's boards must work together to ensure a smooth transition, Anderson said.

Siegal, a board member since 2015, voiced support for the administrative collaboration with District 75. Additionally, she said Mundelein High must remain committed to helping all students achieve academic success.

"Although we are all learners, we do not all learn the same way or within the same timeline," Siegal said. "Not only do we all learn differently, we acknowledge that we offer programming that improves learning for all."

Yaffe, a member of the Diamond Lake School District 76 board, said it's "essential" for the arrangement with District 75 to work effectively so it serves both districts long-term.

Yaffe also said educators must be vigilant regarding student safety. She cited vaping, tobacco use, substance abuse, violence and cybersecurity among her top concerns.

"I would support all of the current efforts by the district and its partners in health care and law enforcement, as well as support the work of student groups," she said.

Rastrelli, who has never held public office, said Mundelein High trustees and employees must embrace the factors that make the school unique. He also stressed the importance of supporting students' mental health improving academic programs.

Election Day is April 2.

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Peter Rastrelli
Joanne Anderson
Lisa Yaffe
Jane Siegal
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