Elmhurst District 205 Official Leaving

ELMHURST, IL — In December 2019, the Elmhurst school board voted to hire Robert "RJ" Bialk as the district's new technology director.

By the time Bialk joined Elmhurst School District 205 six months later, it was a different time. Amid the pandemic, officials were planning a learning environment for the new school year that was largely dependent on technology.

So it was likely a busy year for those involved in technology in the schools. In early April, Bialk informed the district that June 30 would be his last day.

"It is with a heavy heart that I share this information," he said in an email to district officials. "I appreciate all the opportunities and support that Elmhurst has given me."

He did not indicate what his next career move would be. Bialk could not be reached for immediate comment. His departure was noted at the last school board meeting.

Before joining District 205, Bialk was the technology director for Lincolnshire-Prairie View School District in Lake County for five years.

In his Elmhurst job, Bialk made $131,000 a year. He replaced Dave Smith.

In the board's 2019 vote for Bialk, two members, Karen Stuefen and Jim Collins, abstained. They did not explain why at the meeting.