D-86 Official: 'I'm Old. I Don't Have That Kind Of Stamina.'

Darien IL

02 November, 2021

5:47 PM

Description

DARIEN, IL — Kathleen Hirsman, a member of the Hinsdale High School District 86 board, expressed frustration with some of her colleagues at a meeting last week. "I'm so disappointed and so discouraged with the fact that certain board members cannot just accept an answer that has been given if they disagree with it," Hirsman said. "I'm not going to name names. I'm not going to point fingers, but this administration is giving good faith answers to the questions that are being asked. And time and time again, I hear argument from board members who don't agree with the answer. That's not how a board should function." She continued, "We're approaching the five-hour mark, and I'm getting tired of these long board meetings. I'm old. I don't have that kind of stamina. I think we need to find a way to be more efficient." While she didn't name names, Hirsman appeared to be referring to board members Jeff Waters, Debbie Levinthal and Peggy James. The trio have opposed the administration's proposal for the science curriculum. Hirsman has noted the length of meetings before, many of which exceed five hours. Shortly after her comments, two residents responded with disgust during public input. Hinsdale resident Kim Notaro said three of the board members failed to listen to the public's concerns about a new grading system, referring to Hirsman, Cynthia Hanson and Erik Held. After she spoke, Hirsman said, "I think I've spent about six hours listening. I've been here the whole time." Notaro responded, "That's great. You also said you're really tired. Why don't you quit? Put somebody up there who will take care of our kids." Later, Clarendon Hills resident John Czerwiec, a former high school science teacher, denounced the administration's proposal for science classes, saying it was reducing students' choices. Raising his voice, Czerwiec accused board members of ignoring voters. "Folks who think the board meetings last too long should tender their resignations," Czerwiec said. "I do not like to say that." Audience members applauded.