Ex-Hinsdale D-86 Leader Criticizes Board Members

HINSDALE, IL – The Hinsdale High School District 86 board met Thursday for the first time since three members walked out of a meeting a week earlier.

Six of the members showed up this time, with member Jeff Waters absent. No member mentioned last week's controversy, which was over closed session minutes.

The meeting was held because the board did not vote on two items of business last week because of the walkout.

The items were a nursing services agreement and an extension of a contract for the manager of building projects. They passed unanimously.

During public comments, three critics of the school board spoke.

Resident Kim Notaro emphasized the need for consistency, pointing to what she said were problems at last week's meeting.

"I truly, truly believe that it's important for all to work together. I know you sit here because you care about the students, and our students all need consistency," Notaro said.

Resident Catherine Greenspon praised teachers, students and the community. And she noted the service of Hinsdale South Principal Arwen Pokorny Lyp, whose last day was Thursday. She is becoming principal at Downers Grove South High.

"I am very sad to see Arwen leave today, but I am very supportive of her move as it supports herself and her family. It's a big loss to our district," Greenspon said.

Former school board President Kay Gallo, who started the movement against Superintendent Tammy Prentiss earlier this year, aimed her criticism at members Kathleen Hirsman and Cynthia Hanson.

Erik Held, president of the Hinsdale High School District 86 board, presides over Thursday's board meeting. Next to him is Superintendent Tammy Prentiss. (David Giuliani/Patch)

Last week, Hirsman presided over the board meeting because board President Erik Held was connected remotely. She interrupted board member Peggy James as she spoke during public comments.

Gallo said a school board could dictate the time, manner and place of comments, but not the content. She said Hirsman's interruptions served as intimidation.

Gallo said Hanson paced while James spoke, which Gallo said was a form of intimidation. Hanson left her seat for a short time during James' comments.

Then Gallo again referred to Hirsman.

"As you have stated, you are the most experienced member of this group with over seven years," Gallo said. "In my opinion, you no longer have the skills, and you should step down."

Following board policy, neither Hirsman nor Hanson responded.

Greenspon has said she is running for school board next year. Gallo has hinted she may.