Endorsement of Art Kessler for District 112 Board

I am writing to encourage all North Shore School District 112 voters to vote for Art Kessler for membership on the School District 112 School Board.

Art was born and raised in Highland Park, and attended District 112 schools. I first met Art when I participated in a 2-day workshop that ultimately led to the formation of the Reconfiguration 2.0 Community Team. Art, along with others, was instrumental in initiating that process and from its inception, has been actively engaged in a leadership role on the 2.0 team. Art has been one of the hardest working members of the 2.0 Community Team, and has exhibited an impressive breadth and depth of knowledge of the District’s educational and financial issues. More importantly, Art’s comments always reveal a District-wide approach to our pressing issues, rather than one that is based upon any particular community or neighborhood in the District. This is the type of approach that is sorely needed to bridge many of the differences in District 112. Art has his eyes on the prize – providing a world-class education to all of the children of the District in an effective, financially responsible manner. He has a vision of what can be, rather than being tied to the status quo.

I do not always agree with Art’s position on various issues. However, from personal experience, I have learned that Art’s positions on issues are well reasoned and he is a good listener. He is willing to consider conflicting views, even modifying his own position when convinced that a different direction is in the best interest of the community and the District. This is exactly the type of person that we need on the Board at this time.

As someone who has been involved in education in Highland Park for many years, including my current service on the Reconfiguration 2.0 Community Team, prior service on the 2012-2013 Superintendent’s Citizen Finance and Facilities Advisory Committee (SCFFAC), serving on several Boards of Education (North Shore School District 112, 1995-1999, and Highwood-Highland Park School District 111, 1992-1993), as well as serving on various caucuses for both Districts 112 and 113, I understand the dedication, energy, effort, and vision that is required of school board members in these challenging times. Art will bring those qualities to the District 112 Board. He is dedicated to preserving the unique character and feel of the community, District and the schools, and ensuring that the District continues to provide quality education throughout the district. I urge all District 112 voters to vote on or before April 4, and to cast one of those votes for Art Kessler for District 112 School Board.

Ken Henry