The Libertyville Community High School District 128 Federation of Teachers has issued a resounding vote of no confidence against Superintendent Denise Herrmann. The vote, which took place last week, saw an overwhelming 90% of the 293 teachers from high schools in Libertyville and Vernon Hills expressing their lack of faith in Herrmann’s leadership.
Community Unites in Call for Change
The dissatisfaction with Herrmann’s administration isn’t limited to educators. Teachers, parents, and students from Libertyville and Vernon Hills are expected to attend tonight’s high school board meeting, which has been relocated from the Vernon Hills High School Library to the school gymnasium due to anticipated large crowds. Their unified goal: to request the immediate removal of Superintendent Herrmann.
District 128, which serves over 3,200 students in the Libertyville area, has seen growing discontent under Herrmann’s nearly three-year tenure. Monica Caldicott, President of the District 128 Federation of Teachers, stated, “As educators committed to positive change and growth in our award-winning district, our members know that effective leadership is critical to student success. Dr. Denise Herrmann has repeatedly shown that she cannot lead our district at this important time.”
Allegations of Mismanagement in Libertyville Schools
Parents and taxpayers in Libertyville have compiled a substantial list of grievances against Herrmann. Marnie Navarro, a District 128 graduate, parent of a future student, and local taxpayer cites issues such as “a track record of bad hires, extreme and reckless wasteful spending, and exposing District 128 to incredible liability by creating a toxic environment.”
Navarro’s statement, shared with the Lake & McHenry County Scanner, outlines specific concerns:
- Costly Hires: Herrmann is accused of appointing administrators and consultants who have cost the district hundreds of thousands of dollars over three years.
- Teacher Alienation: The district leadership has reportedly “completely ignored and alienated our most valuable resources, our teachers, for well over a year,” resulting in unprecedented low morale and a complete lack of trust.
- Misallocation of Funds: While Libertyville High School requires serious, overdue repairs, Herrmann allegedly spent over $17,000 on custom office furniture for herself and another $17,000 on furniture for the new kitchen in the sparsely attended admin building.
Libertyville Community Seeks Accountability
The community’s frustration extends to the District 128 Board of Education. Navarro emphasizes that the board is elected to represent students, parents, and the community and be responsible stewards of tax dollars. She believes they have to evaluate Superintendent Herrmann and hold her accountable.
Despite attempts to reach her for comment, Herrmann was unavailable on Monday. The situation in Libertyville’s District 128 highlights the critical importance of effective leadership in education, especially as the district enters a contract year with its teachers.
High Stakes for Libertyville’s Educational Future
Tonight’s board meeting in Vernon Hills, a sister city to Libertyville in District 128, is expected to be a pivotal moment. With teachers, parents, and students united in their call for change, the outcome could significantly impact the future of education in Libertyville and Vernon Hills. As this award-winning district grapples with leadership challenges, the community’s response underscores its commitment to maintaining high educational standards and fiscal responsibility.
A superintendent should be required to have pre requisites like teaching, and principal and age!!