Lake County Gazette

At its April 15 meeting, the District 45 Board of Education recognized board members Navreet Heneghan and Kelli May as they transition off the board on May 6.

During board and administrator comments, board members expressed appreciation for their service and contributions, and Superintendent Brian Graber reflected on their accomplishments and summarized their contributions as elected members of the board.

Navreet Heneghan, who has served on the board since 2017, played a key role in the referendum process and the construction of the Early Childhood Center. She also helped the district navigate the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Navreet has gone above and beyond to stay informed and to keep us informed of legal issues involving our schools, through LEND, but also through personal connections and resources,” said Graber. “Her perspective has always been respectful and focused on advocating for all students and families. ”

Board Vice President Carol Klamecki also reflected on Heneghan’s leadership.

“Navreet has a very special skill … she can sit and pay attention and not move a muscle,” said Klamecki. “I have never had that skill … but I learned to sit still and to wait for people and to listen more—and it’s from you, so thank you for that. It’s something we can all use, listen more, and react less, and let people say what’s on their hearts. ”

Heneghan shared her appreciation for the district and her experience on the board.

“I came in already proud of the district because I had done work here before, in other areas. But I grew to love this board and this work even more,” said Heneghan. “I’ve told so many people about what’s special here … the conversations we’ve been able to have, that we can bring things up together, and question things, and have hard discussions—and at the end of the day, the focus is always the kids. I really appreciate that focus. It’s pretty special here. ”

Kelli May has served on the board since 2021, beginning her term during the pandemic.

“Kelli has always operated with kindness and in the best interest of students and families. She took a vested interest in learning about all parts of the district, not just her own children’s schools,” said Superintendent Brian Graber. “Kelli always participated in every aspect of her responsibilities as a board member, including making sure information was clear and lingering questions were answered. ”

Board President Judy Degnan expressed her thanks for May’s service.

“I just want to say thank you. We appreciate that you are engaged and active, and here,” said Degnan. “It’s been good for me to get to know you, to get a different perspective. It’s good to hear all sides of the story. I appreciate that about you. Thank you for your service. ”

Kelli May expressed her gratitude to the board and for her experience.

“I don’t feel like I lost, because I gained a lot from this experience,” said May. “It was contentious at first. It was hard. But I really appreciate the relationships I’ve built, and I feel like I really learned a lot, and that’s thanks to all of us sitting here. ”