A lot has changed at North Shore School District 112 in the last eight years. After the defeat of a proposed bond referendum in 2016, District 112 faced budget shortfalls, decaying buildings, a deeply divided community, and multiple leadership vacancies.
The current Board of Education is widely credited with turning District 112 around. Today it has balanced budgets, a triple-A bond rating, and the highest student achievement scores on state-wide testing in its history. A second referendum proposal passed in 2022 with a 72% margin. The District has completed the modernization of three school buildings, with two others in construction, and two more in planning and design.
Four Board seats are open in the April 1 election. Only two incumbents, Art Kessler and Bennett Lasko, are seeking re-election. Both are widely endorsed by community leaders who credit them with providing critical leadership for District 112 at a time of crisis.
Highland Park Mayor Nancy Rotering says “Art and Bennett have shown that they know what it takes to keep our schools strong. We are fortunate that they are seeking reelection.”
According to Highwood Mayor Charlie Pecaro, Kessler and Lasko are “two of the most honest, hard-working individuals, and wonderful stewards looking out for our tax dollars. I can’t recommend them enough.”
Their experience will be important as a new Superintendent, Dr. Monica Schroeder, takes the helm at District 112 in 2026. Kessler and Lasko bring continuity and institutional knowledge at the Board level.
Outgoing Board members Alexander Brunk and Dan Jenks have both written endorsements for Kessler and Lasko. Brunk wrote “Art Kessler and Bennett Lasko … are both incredibly accomplished professionals and the board is fortunate to have their talents.” Jenks says “I strongly support Bennett Lasko and Art Kessler for re-election – as a community, we are fortunate that they are willing to commit to another 4-year term. Together with continuing Board members Lisa Hirsh, Melissa Itkin and Jenny Butler, I have great confidence in this group’s ability to lead the District forward, continuing to improve student outcomes and address the challenges ahead.”
Lasko and Kessler are also endorsed by Former State Representative Lauren Beth Gash; Moraine Township Supervisor Anne Flanagan Bassi; Highwood Aldermen James Hospodarsky, Eric Falberg, and Andy Peterson; the entire Highland Park City Council; and every member of the District 112 Board of Education, among other current and former elected officials.
To learn more visit www.artkesslerfor112.com and www.reelectlasko112.com