D-205 Tensions Subside Since Official's Exit

ELMHURST, IL — March 16 was a rough meeting for the Elmhurst school board. More than 100 people protested outside, chanting, "Moyer must go!"

Inside, resident after resident took Superintendent Dave Moyer and the board to task for the lack of full in-person learning. Although Moyer was slated to stay as superintendent through June, the meeting was his last.

Just six days later, the school board announced that Moyer, who was already planning to take another superintendent's job in the summer, was resigning three months early. Members were still considering candidates for the superintendent's position.

On April 1, Linda Yonke, a former York High School principal, took over as interim superintendent. She also belonged to the recruitment firm helping the board find a new superintendent. Not long after, the board announced the hiring of Keisha Campbell, who took the helm July 1.

At Tuesday's board meeting, Yonke, a former New Trier High School superintendent, was praised for her three months of service.

"Your time at New Trier served you and served us very well. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts," member Karen Stuefen said. "We are honored by your service to us. You put your heart and soul into it."

Member Courtenae Trautmann said Yonke played a vital role for the district, including her time as its recruiter. She called Yonke "brilliant."

"The community will never understand how important you were for the transition," Trautmann said.

The board presented Yonke with flowers and a gift. Members gave her a standing ovation.

When the board approved Moyer's resignation agreement in late March, Moyer did not attend. In a statement at the meeting, board President Kara Caforio said, "The board reiterates its best wishes for Dr. Moyer and its appreciation for his dedication to increasing and improving learning opportunities for students and staff of District 205."

Board members offered no personal sentiments about Moyer.

Full in-person learning started in mid-April, which was in the plans before Moyer left.