Pavesich: 'This is Not a Game of Gotcha'

At the last DuPage Division (Illinois Association of School Boards) meeting, we were told that the best boards embraced and utilized longevity. Electing you means we would have as president and vice president members that have only two years of experience on this board. You still have much to learn.

While I am sure you have the necessary votes, I have a few comments before we vote.

1) Debbie, you sued the district for a residency issue, costing the district close to $20,000 in legal costs because you felt entitled to something other families in our district don't get. You believe the district policy wasn't good enough for you and that's a dangerous belief for a vice president to hold.

I have seen you come to our regular board meeting and open your packet for the first time right then and there. Other times, you have not brought the proper paperwork we were given well in advance to be prepared and to be able to ask intelligent and appropriate questions. And speaking of questions, it is worth the phone call to give staff the heads up if you do have a concern about something. Again, if you don't have time to ask the question ahead of time, pull the staff member aside before or after the meeting. This is not a game of gotcha. This is serious business.

Lastly, for the record, about 98 percent of all the votes we have taken as a board have been unanimous. We have listened to your ideas and discussed them. If they have merit, they are brought forward just like everyone else. To portray yourself as a victim is wrong. If you disagree it is up to you to advocate for your opinion before the vote, not to complain about it later. Remember, we as a group make a decision.

Again, Keith, Mike and Nancy, I encourage you to be independent thinkers and be cautious of your alliances. They may lead you down the wrong path. Remember we are here for the students, taxpayers and the continued future excellence of District 99.

Also, I just want to say again whatever the outcome that I will be willing to work with this board as I have the previous boards. Our challenges will be new, and our accomplishments can be great if we work seriously and with integrity for the entire district.