MINOOKA – Five candidates are now competing for three seats on the Minooka Community High School District 111 school board this election.

Four-year terms are up for current board members Karen Buchanan, Mark French and Jennifer Miney, who are not seeking re-election.

A two-year unexpired seat also is up for election. Current board member Wendi Arlis is running for that seat in an uncontested race.

School board members in this district will be facing financial issues, as the school struggles to cope with declining revenues from the state and from property taxes.

Teacher and staff layoffs were made in the board's March meeting, and reductions have been made in other areas in the past two years.

Running for the three four-year terms are:

Lori Lakota

Give a description of your experience.

“I reside in Shorewood with Bill, my husband of 20 years, and our two children. Erik is a freshman at Minooka High School, and Lexie is in first grade at Walnut Trails Elementary School. I graduated from the University of Illinois with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Marketing. Upon graduating, my occupations included management, sales and marketing positions. When my son was born, I made the decision to be a stay-at-home mom. As my children grew, I became involved with their schools as a substitute teacher and president and vice president of the PTO, taught religious education at St. Mary’s in Minooka for 12 years, and served on the board of Three Rivers Soccer Club. Currently my responsibilities include marketing for a local company and substitute teaching.”

Why are you running?

“I am running for the school board because my belief is that each decision made requires an analysis of all angles of an issue. In making decisions, I will tirelessly analyze all information available from every side of the issue. My decisions will be that of a student, parent, teacher and taxpayer. Our students need to know that hard work will be rewarded. Our parents need to know that each student deserves the opportunity to succeed. Our teachers need to know that we have their backs. Our taxpayers need to know that we are spending within our means and looking at the bottom line, while moving our community forward.”

What changes would you like to see the board make?

“I believe our district is moving in the right direction, and I would like to contribute to my community by representing you on the school board.”

Lawrence W. Troutman

Give a description of your experience.

“As a candidate for MCHS Dist. 111 board of education, I would bring the following experience: Veteran of the U.S. Army Security Agency, two full terms as a Will County Board Member, two full terms as Township Supervisor of Channahon Township, six plus years MCHS Dist. 111 bus driver. Formerly president, owner operator of Railcon, Inc. (a rail contracting company) for 40 years. Lifelong Will County resident, resident of Channahon for 13 years. Three  children and six grandchildren, all living in Channahon. Married for over 50 years to Elaine.”

Why are you running?

“I’m running because I want our students to be the best they can be.”

What changes would you like to see the board make?

“We must avoid the mistakes of the former board by thoroughly researching the backgrounds of all new hires. Changes I would like to make to the present board: Be more sensitive and receptive to the taxpayers of this district.”

Trevor Markee

Give a description of your experience.

“I have been actively involved in many programs around the area. I am currently the president of Channahon Baseball for my second year and also served as secretary for four years. I have served on the board for a total of eight years. I am also president of the Minooka Indians Elite Wrestling Club. I have been part of that organization for 10 years and president for the past five. I was a coach for the Chanooka for three years.”

Why are you running?

“I am running for the school board to get involved with important decisions that affect our kids and our community. I also want to make sure that we are putting the kids first in the decision-making process. I want to make sure that the students continue to have the option of extracurricular activities and programs. I also want to be involved with important decisions with finances and the budget.”

What changes would you like to see the board make?

“As far as what changes I’d like to see the board make, I just want the board to be unified in their decisions when it comes to the students and the teachers. I want our teachers and students to be proud they attend Minooka Community High School.”

Kristine Shipla

Give a description of your experience.

"My background is finance, education, and business owner. I graduated from Olivet
Nazarene University and have a master's from Governors State University in Administration. Starting off in banking and then having the pleasure of teaching in Coal City for over 10 years. I am now working alongside my husband in our own business."

Why are you running?

“Being on the school board would be challenging and exciting and an experience that would be fulfilling. The children are the ultimate focus and I would like the opportunity to share my experience and knowledge to benefit our community.”

What changes would you like to see the board make?

“I believe in the public school system and the quality of our current and future students are most important. It would be my focus to continue having the board work together accomplishing the goal of making the Minooka High School the best school for all students to succeed.”

Timothy Crouch

Give a description of your experience.

“I served as a sergeant in the United States Army from 1990 through 1994. I am from Southern Illinois originally, but moved north after marrying my wife. I earned my bachelor’s in accounting and was employed as an accountant for a number of years. I then made the decision to start and operate my own accounting practice. I am the father of eight, having two daughters attending District 111 schools, and three attending District 201 schools. The three youngest are still at home.”

Why are you running?

“I want to become a member of the 111 School Board because I believe the education we provide should prepare our young people for life. I know that my life experience as well as my professional background will serve the district well. I can offer my practical experience as an accountant as well as insights gained as a father of children who are currently attending school.”

What changes would you like to see the board make?

“I would like to see our district spend tax dollars wisely. There is too much waste, and spending is at times very short-sighted. The district needs to include the community in decision making and provide greater transparency and access to the decision making process. We need to learn to work together as a team, and not dismiss the needs and concerns of our students and staff, or those of the community.”