District 113 Says Goodbye to Longtime Board Members

District 113 said goodbye to two of its longest sitting Board members at the Monday, May 6 meeting. Harvey Cohen (served 16 years) and Bonnie Shlensky (served 8 years) stepped down from their positions. Family, friends, and colleagues were in attendance to thank them profusely for their service. 

“The news headline tomorrow might read that two school Board members closed out their terms in office but make sure you read the whole story about Harvey Cohen and Bonnie Shlensky,” Ken Fishbain, former District 113 Board member, commented at the meeting. 

“Harvey and Bonnie care deeply about our students and they both have an extra talent for listening, for asking for more information, and for clearly stating their
reasons for taking a position.”

Cohen moved to Highland Park with his wife in 1972 and watched his two daughters move through the Highland Park school system. His interest in the District 113 Board sparked after participating in several Highland Park caucuses.

When Bonnie and her husband Steve Shlensky moved to Deerfield in 1986 she was immediately recruited by the PTO. Little did she know she’d spend the next few decades dedicated to improving the local school system. Shlensky went on to serve as PTO President for Wilmot Elementary, Caruso Middle School and Deerfield High School before elected to the District 113 Board of Education.

On May 6, both Cohen and Shlensky were recognized for their service to District 113, its students and the entire community.

“As a Board member, Harvey’s commitment to providing students and staff with the best educational environment possible was evident,” David Small, current Board of Education member, said during a resolution in appreciation of Cohen. “He was a strong proponent of making sure District 113 supported each and every one of its students.”

Both Cohen and Shlensky were adamant about always making sure students’ best interests were at the forefront of every Board decision.

“She [Bonnie] was constantly at the high schools, attending events, participating in meetings, and organizing functions,” Michael Smith, current Board member, said during a resolution in appreciation of Shlensky. “Her constant presence was noted by students and staff who came to know her not only as a Board member but as a friend.”

Cohen and Shlensky were replaced by Highland Park resident Julie Starkman Gordon and Deerfield resident Stacey Meyer. Annette Lidawer was also re-elected to her position on the Board. All three were sworn in at the May 6 meeting. The Board elected Marjie Sandlow as its new President and Lidawer as the Vice-President.