To recognize the outstanding efforts of nearly 6,000 elected school board members across Illinois, November 15 is designated as School Board Members Day. This day provides an opportunity to build awareness and appreciation for the vital role that locally elected boards of education play in our representative democracy.
At Crete-Monee School District 201-U, our board members serve as dedicated volunteer advocates, committed to ensuring quality educational opportunities for every student. They take on this critical responsibility not for a paycheck, but out of genuine care for our community and its children.
Our school board members wear many hats — they are education leaders, policy makers, contract negotiators, and fiscal stewards. But above all, they are our neighbors, friends, and CM 201-U’s biggest supporters.
Thank you, Crete-Monee 201-U Board of Education, for your leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to our students and schools!
Meet the CM 201-U Board of Education:
MAURICE BROWN, PRESIDENT, DISTRICT 2
A proud district resident for 33 years, Maurice and his wife raised four children—three of whom graduated from Crete-Monee High School. All four earned Division I college degrees. Maurice is serving his fourth term on the board. He has championed building safety improvements, school renovations, and early learning programs, such as the Illinois Kindergarten Readiness Initiative. Under his leadership, the district has earned high marks for financial stewardship, reflected in the State of Illinois Financial Recognition list. He values the opportunity to help our district come together. Throughout his service, the district and community have made great strides toward unity. Watching students graduate reminds him why this work matters, and he remains honored to serve the families of Crete-Monee.
ALEX GALLEGOS, VICE PRESIDENT, DISTRICT 4
Alex moved to Crete in 2020 with his wife, a district teacher, and their two children: one is a junior in high school, and the other is in kindergarten. New to town and politics, he ran for school board as a “district dad” with fresh ideas. Despite having no political experience, a hands-on background, and an unfamiliar name, he was elected in 2023, becoming the first person of Mexican ancestry to serve on the Crete-Monee Board of Education. His proudest role is representing the district on SPEED, a cooperative supporting students with special needs. Alex enjoys sharing how exceptional Crete-Monee students are and is committed to ensuring they have the support they need to thrive.
JAMIE ZITE-STUMBRIS, SECRETARY, DISTRICT 5
A Crete resident for over 17 years and a board member since 2023, Jamie is the parent of a CMHS junior who began at ELC. She holds a master’s degree and works at Brookfield Zoo in Chicago as a Senior Writing and Guest Engagement Specialist, focusing on inclusive educational signage. Jamie is proud to have supported the expansion of middle school classroom space and to serve on a board recognized at the state level. As a newer member, she values engaging with the community, promoting holistic family support, and helping all students make a positive impact on their communities and futures.
DR. TODD C. HALL, BOARD MEMBER, DISTRICT 3
Dr. Todd Hall has lived in the district for 22 years and is the parent of four children who have attended district schools. He serves as a school administrator in Student Support Services at Kankakee SD #111. Dr. Hall is especially proud of the new sportsplex and the expansion of extracurricular opportunities for students. Passionate about supporting students and the broader community, he values the relationships he’s built with students, staff, and families. As he often says, “I do not just represent University Park; I am proud to represent all the communities that make up Crete-Monee SD 201-U.”
WILLIAM J. SAWALLISCH JR., BOARD MEMBER, DISTRICT 1
A district resident since 2000, William and his wife of 30 years have three children: two C-M graduates and one currently at CMHS. He owns Blue Ridge Heating & Air Co. in Joliet and actively volunteers in the district and with the Village of Monee. William takes pride in helping unify the board after a period of division, leading school upgrades for safer learning environments, and improving long-overdue athletic facilities. He values the strong relationships he’s built with both certified and non-certified staff. Serving on the board, he says, has been “an unbelievably satisfying experience,” with the impact of their work being “the best part.”
ELIZABETH VENEGAS, BOARD MEMBER, DISTRICT 7
Recently elected this past Spring, Elizabeth Venegas has lived in the district since 2001 and graduated from CMHS in 2014. As a Project Manager in the construction industry for the past seven years, she enjoys bringing projects to life. Though she doesn’t yet have children, Elizabeth hopes to raise a family here and sees board service as a way to help strengthen the community. She’s passionate about fostering multicultural awareness, showcasing the district’s strong programs in STEM, the arts, and athletics, and ensuring students feel heard, valued, and prepared for life beyond high school.
JANINE WOOLFOLK, BOARD MEMBER, DISTRICT 6
Elected this past spring after serving as interim, Janine hadn’t planned to run until someone encouraged her, sparking a curiosity that grew into a commitment to quality education, safe schools, and strong student support. As a district parent, she brings a valuable parental perspective, community representation, and a student-centered approach to advocacy. She has discovered the district’s “hidden gems,” including enrichment and leadership programs, the arts, athletics, and a dedicated staff. Her vision is to build a culture of excellence, transparency, accountability, and pride—benefiting all families, regardless of whether they have children in school.