'Clean House' In Elmhurst D-205? No, Parent Says

ELMHURST, IL – School boards across the country have heard a lot of criticism over the last couple of years.

The Elmhurst board is no exception. Yet, at its meeting Tuesday, just one person spoke during the comment period. Usually, numerous people air their views.

The lone commenter, resident Anne-Marie Gustafson, praised Elmhurst School District 205.

She appeared to be responding to comments two weeks ago from state Rep. Deanne Mazzochi, an Elmhurst Republican. The lawmaker denounced the district, calling for the superintendent to "clean house."

In her comments, Gustafson, who has three daughters in local schools, repeatedly thanked officials and teachers for their work.

"Thank you for listening to countless hours of public comment and showing steadfast patience and grace," she said.

Gustafson said she took part in one of the district's focus groups, which is part of the district's process to create a long-term plan.

"Our particular group revealed the challenges faced with negative distractions and criticisms," she said. "Thank you for rising above and continuing the hard work."

Then she made an apparent reference to Mazzochi's speech.

"Rather than clean house, my hope is that District 205 will continue to open doors for our students and build bridges within our community," Gustafson said.

After Gustafson spoke, board President Kara Caforio said, "Your kind words are very much appreciated."

Mazzochi contends the district has biased lessons in English and history classes at York High School. She has aligned herself with a parents group that accuses the district of indoctrinating students with Marxism and critical race theory.