Pender, DeGrave, Peltzer Top Race For New Lenox District 122 Board

NEW LENOX, IL — New Lenox voters Tuesday, April 4 were asked to whittle down a list of eight candidates to just three to fill seats on the New Lenox District 122 Board of Education. Unofficial results show incumbent William Pender was the top vote-getter, with newcomers Nicole DeGrave and Stephanie Peltzer rounding out the top three.

Incumbent William Pender sought to retain his spot. Newcomers Nicole DeGrave, Stephanie Peltzer, Samantha Jean Gasca, Adelheid "Heidi" Connolly, Jeanine Kozlowski, Ignacio Rojas Jr. and Mary E. Lambert join him on the ballot. A ninth candidate, Tyler Sturm, withdrew from the running.

"I’m very thankful for the support that I received," Pender told Patch. "I know that Nicole and Stephanie will be great additions to the board. We have great schools in New Lenox with great people working in them and I know we, as a board, will continue to work together for the benefit of kids and taxpayers!"

With polls closed, here's where vote totals stand, with all precincts reporting:

• William Pender: 2,049
• Nicole DeGrave: 1,900
• Stephanie Peltzer: 1,656
• Mary E. Lambert: 1,600
• Adelheid "Heidi" Connolly: 1,236
• Jeanine Kozlowski: 1,231
• Samantha Jean Gasca: 921
• Ignacio "Iggy" Rojas, Jr.: 751

The New Lenox District 122 Board of Education is a seven-member, elected body tasked with formulating general district policies, employing and advising the superintendent, employing personnel, making specific school decisions, and orienting new members. The board convenes every month in open, public meetings to discuss school and district business and hear citizens' concerns.

Each board member is elected to a four-year term, for which he or she is not compensated. Board members must reside within the New Lenox School District 122 boundaries.