Stein resigns as Mokena SD 159 superintendent
BY SUSAN DEMAR LAFFERTY slafferty@southtownstar.com November 20, 2012 2:04PM
Stein
Updated: December 24, 2012 6:47AM
Mokena School District 159 Supt. Steve Stein will leave the district at the end of the school year to become superintendent in Peotone Community School District 207U.
Stein’s resignation was approved by the school board this week, making him the second administrator this year to leave the district. Business manager Kirt Hendrick resigned in July after serving one year, saying he did not believe he had the trust of the board.
“This is not a reflection on our morale or stability,” Board President Patrick Markham said Tuesday of Stein’s exit.
Stein was not looking to leave District 159 but was recruited for the Peotone post, Markham said. Markham said he was “surprised” by the news when Stein informed the board Nov. 7 in closed session.
“I’m very happy for him but very sad for us,” Markham said. “I will miss him tremendously but can’t fault him for bettering himself.”
Stein was the Mokena Elementary School principal for 10 years before being named superintendent in August, 2011, when Karen Perry was demoted to assistant superintendent.
In his resignation letter, Stein had high praise for the dedication and pride of the teachers and support staff.
“Knowing the dedication and skill of the teachers, staff and administration, I am certain that District 159 has come through its most difficult times and that great possibilities are ahead,” he wrote.
Markham said he hopes to promote from within to fill the vacancy.
