Chester school board eyes switching to 'at-large' elections

Chester Unit School District 138 is considering changing the way it elects board members - from a geographic representation to at-large positions.

The school board will consider placing a referendum on the Nov. 6 general election ballot seeking voter approval for a change to at-large representation. Currently, board members are elected based on geographic representation. The restriction states that not more than three members of the board may be selected from any one congressional township which is part of the Chester School District.

Officials say the restriction creates the possibility of all seats on the board not being filled, while potential board members may not being elected due to the restriction.

The at-large members would not be restricted by where they live in the district, officials said.

District 138 is currently is made up of eight townships.

If approved by the board in April, the resolution would need to be filed with the Randolph County Clerk by August to be on the November ballot. The referendum would need to be approved by a majority of the votes in each district township cast or by two-thirds of all voters voting on the proposition.

Other requirements for potential members would still apply. Candidates must be at least 18 years of age, a U.S. citizen and a resident of Illinois and the District for at least one year immediately preceding election, and be a registered voter.

The board also heard a report from Chester High School Principal Melissa Meyer concerning the March 14 National Walk-Out Day at their March meeting. Meyer said no Chester students walked out of classes.

The school started the day with an announcement that the school, students and teachers, joined with other schools across our nation in solidarity in mourning the deaths of nine freshmen, five seniors, and three teachers at Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida.

A poem was read which had been written by one of the victims before he was killed. This was followed by a moment of silence.

Chester Grade School Principal Tim Lochhead said his school did so as well.

The Chester Police and the County Sheriff's office are making frequent visits to both schools on a random basis, interacting with students and being a regular presence. They are continuing to examine safety measures and looking at the best ways to handle any threats which may arise.