The Homewood-Flossmoor Education Organization (HFEO) has endorsed incumbents Gerald Pauling and Andy Lindstrom and newcomer Eric Grant for election to the District 233 school board on April 4.
The Homewood-Flossmoor Education Organization (HFEO) has endorsed incumbents Gerald Pauling and Andy Lindstrom and newcomer Eric Grant for election to the District 233 school board on April 4.
Dana Noble, president of the Homewood-Flossmoor High School teachers union, said HFEO members selected a committee to interview the candidates and make the final decision on whom to back in the competitive race.
There are seven candidates running for three open seats: Pauling, Lindstrom and incumbent Richard Lites, and challengers Grant, Steve Anderson, Beth Larocca and Annette Bannon. All seven were interviewed.
In its assessment, HFEO said Pauling “has demonstrated a commitment to the organization as a whole and values the diverse environment of H-F. He is committed to providing teachers with the necessary resources to improve student achievement through collaboration and innovation.”
Lindstrom had served seven years on the board before resigning for work obligations. He agreed to serve again, filling a vacancy in August 2016. He is running for a full term. Lindstrom was endorsed by HFEO in a previous election.
“Andy has demonstrated his commitment to building a positive environment by listening to and working with the faculty throughout his time on the board. His financial background has helped H-F achieve a AAA bond rating (from Standard & Poor’s), enabling our school to complete major improvements that have benefitted our district,” HFEO’s statement said. Teachers also called him “the most visible board member.”
Grant “values constructive and honest communication as the way to create a supportive environment and build relationships between board members, the administration, faculty, students and the community,” HFEO said. Teachers also recognize Grant’s family history with unions, and point to his financial management expertise.
HFEO has endorsed candidates in the past. For this election, the union is not taking any outward steps on behalf of the candidates, but is allowing Pauling, Lindstrom and Grant to use the endorsements in their campaigns.
HFEO has 180 members. It is affiliated with the Illinois Education Association/National Education Association.