Frustrations mount over calls for Fenton school superintendent to resign

BENSENVILLE, Ill. — Parents’ frustration has reached a boiling point amid calls for the Fenton schools superintendent’s resignation.

“We feel that our voices were not heard,” said parent Julia Styrczula.

On Wednesday afternoon, parents received notice of a special board meeting set for Friday, March 29. But some say the meeting does nothing to ease their concerns.

“The agenda listed board items we find questionable,” Styrczula said.

The agenda calls for district superintendent James Ontengco to be placed on administrative leave and for principal Samuel Bentsen to be named interim superintendent.

“Are we going to pay for it?” Styrczula asked. “Is this a paid administrative leave again?”

This comes after a teacher was fired last week at a special school board meeting. He is accused of sexual misconduct with students. The teacher was placed on paid leave for several months before his firing.

WGN News is not naming the teacher because he has not been criminally charged.

“We feel this administration has failed our children tremendously,” Styrczula said.

Parents like Nicole Mann are now calling for a new administration.

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“We need everyone else to go,” Mann said. “We need a fresh start. That’s the only way this community is going to move forward.”

Parents also told WGN News that they want an outside crisis intervention team brought in.

“Now is the time for real change,” said Joshua Dakins.

“You’ve got graduation and I can’t imagine this administration standing up in front of us as parents, in front of these kids saying the future is bright and in front of you it seems hypocritical,” Dakins added.

WGN News contacted the school district for comment on Friday’s special meeting but has yet to hear back.

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