Meet District 113A School Board Candidate David Molitor

LEMONT, IL — The upcoming election is less than three weeks away, and early voting has already begun. In Lemont, one of the contested local races is the race for District 113A Board of Education. There are four open positions on the board, and David Molitor is one of the five candidates running.

Molitor, who attended District 113A schools himself, lives in Lemont with his wife, Linda, and two daughters. He has a degree in computer science from Northern Illinois University and works as president of Phoenix Software Services, LLC.

Molitor, who has served on the board for eight years, believes the single most pressing issue facing the board is increasing enrollment.

"[I will work] with the Board/Administration to find options for increased room capacity via 1) re-utilization of existing space/rooms within the district; 2) Potentially reopening Central School (where we are currently doing a cost study to re-open this building), and looking at the potential for additions on our existing facilities," Molitor said. "The method used to address this significant issue will only be made after some much needed thoughtful and deliberate planning by the Board of Education."

When Molitor was first elected, the board was in a state of financial distress, and many things, like sports and music, were cut to keep costs down.

Now, Molitor said the district has been recognized by Illinois for the highest financial profile any district can have, and fund balances have been restored. The board has also implemented 1-1 technology, and restored sports, music and art to the district.

"I hope these changes in the last eight years give significant reason for the voters to trust me as a steward for kids, the district and the communities I serve," Molitor said.

"There is a great mix of professionals on our Board of Education today; a lawyer, CPA, teacher, community member who worked as a paraprofessional for the district before she became a board member, business owner, insurance agent and police officer," Molitor said. "These varying backgrounds help us to have some unique viewpoints that lead to passionate discussions about what is best for our kids. Continuity in good Boards of Education is important, especially when things are going well."

There are four open positions on the board in the upcoming April 2 election. The other four candidates include incumbents Cynthia Kelly, Damon Ascolani and Al Malley, and newcomer Laura Smith.

If you are a candidate in the upcoming April 2 election, you can email andrea.earnest@patch.com for a candidate questionnaire.