Introduction to the Crisis
Evanston/Skokie School District 65 is dealing with the aftermath of the federal indictment of a former superintendent, as its board contemplates closing schools to address a budget deficit. The district serves about 6,200 elementary and middle school students in the northern suburbs.
Background of the Indictment
The former superintendent, Devon Horton, worked under the leadership of then-board president Sergio Hernandez for a year. Horton was indicted on charges including wire fraud and embezzlement. He is accused of orchestrating a kickback scheme by steering contracts to companies owned by his friends. Horton also allegedly used a district-provided credit card for personal expenses, including for meals, gift cards, and vehicle repairs, according to the indictment.
Response from the Board President
Hernandez announced that he will step down as board president, though he plans to stay on the board. He assured the public that no one else on the board has been connected to the alleged scheme, that the district has been cooperating with the investigation, and that part of the penalties sought by federal investigators include monetary restitution for the district. Hernandez focused on his accomplishments at the helm of the board, including expanding programs that serve multilingual students in the district and addressing inequalities.
Call for Resignation
Several speakers called for Hernandez to resign from the board entirely, saying his leadership contributed to the district’s current financial strife. The district is grappling with a deficit due to declining enrollment and increasing maintenance and has said it needs to find between $10 and $15 million in cuts for long-term stability. The board has been in ongoing discussions about closing schools to save that money. No decisions have been made about which schools or how many will close.
Community and Teacher Reactions
Evanston resident Samantha Schwimmer criticized Hernandez, stating that his leadership was instrumental in the rise and protection of Devon Horton, a man who now stands federally indicted on 17 criminal charges. Kelly Post, president of the District 65 Educators Council, which represents teachers and staff, also called on Hernandez to resign from the board. Post said the indictment revealed the “systematic lack of oversight and accountability that allowed such misconduct to occur.”
Election of New Board President
The board voted unanimously to elect board member Pat Anderson as the new president. Anderson was elected to the board earlier this year and is a former employee of the district. She acknowledged the challenges facing the district and pledged to work towards meaningful solutions.
Conclusion
The Evanston/Skokie School District 65 faces significant challenges, from the indictment of a former superintendent to a budget deficit that may lead to school closures. The community and teachers are calling for accountability and transparency, and the new board president, Pat Anderson, has a crucial role in rebuilding trust and finding solutions that benefit the students and families served by the district.
FAQs
- Q: Who is the former superintendent of Evanston/Skokie School District 65?
- A: Devon Horton.
- Q: What are the charges against the former superintendent?
- A: Wire fraud and embezzlement, among others.
- Q: Why is the district considering closing schools?
- A: To address a budget deficit due to declining enrollment and increasing maintenance costs.
- Q: Who is the new president of the school board?
- A: Pat Anderson.
- Q: What is the total number of students served by the district?
- A: About 6,200 elementary and middle school students.
