Incumbent Loses to Two Newcomers

An incumbent school board member was voted out by the community Tuesday and replaced by two newcomers. 

David Hill, an eight year veteran on the Minooka Community Consolidated School District 201 Board, was upset by Kathe Brozman and Kevin Hannon. 

Hannon, a senior at Minooka Community High School, beat Hill by only a 13 vote margin.  Brozman, who received 894 votes, is a bus driver for MCHS. Both were unable to be reached for comment.

“Hill was a terrific board member,” said Al Gegenheimer, superintendent of MCCSD 201. “He is a first class guy who has done many good things in the district.”

Gegenheimer said one of the Hill’s accomplishments was helping the school district win the Bright Star Award. The award is given to school districts whose student academic performance ranks in the upper third and the per pupil expenditures are in the lower quarter of the state. 

“Mr. Hill was very proud of that award and he is a big supporter of academics,” Gegenheimer said. “We will miss him. And we welcome the newcomers.”

While he is fine with the fact that he lost the race, Hill said he is disappointed with the low turn out of voters.

“It’s disheartening, the apathy of the American people,” Hill said. “People complain a lot and then don’t come and vote.”

Hill, who put four children through Minooka schools, said he will stay involved in the school system by participating on the education advisory board.

“I love the school district but it’s time to move on,” Hill said. “I feel there is a reason for what has taken place. I did enjoy being on the board.”

Joe Frieders and Tom Guy Bartoli also ran for the three seats that were available on the school board. Both were unable for comment.

A third candidate, who had been serving on the board in an appointed position, was the lead contender in the race with 903 votes.

“I’m really happy the constituents of Minooka had faith to vote for me,” Skwarczynski said. “I’m looking to give the best quality education to kids at the most reasonable price.”

Skwarczynski retired six years ago from the Joliet Grade School system. His last position was principal for Taft Elementary.

“I think I can be valuable to the board,” he said.

Skwarczynski was appointed to the school board last summer. Board member John Glendinning had moved from the village and  Skwarczynski was appointed to fill the vacancy in July.

“It’s been a good eight months so far,” Skwarczynski said. I’ve had a very positive experience and I’m looking forward to four more years of positive experience.”

Skwarczynski ‘s children attended Minooka schools, and in a few years he will have grandchildren attending them as well.

“We have very dedicated teachers to do good jobs with our kids,” Skwarczynski said. “We should be proud of our schools.”