I am writing to express my enthusiastic support of Debbie Levinthal for the District 86 Board of Education. I’ve known Debbie for 10 years. The first time I heard Debbie speak was at a parent meeting for our children’s preschool. I remember being blown away by her articulate advocacy about food allergy precautions in the classroom. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work with Debbie on school-related committees. I’ve also sought her opinion on various education topics. Debbie has served as a guide for me as I navigate my children’s education.
I believe Debbie would be an incredible asset to the D86 Board. Debbie is smart, dedicated, hardworking and able to balance listening openly to all sides of an issue with advocating for students. I have watched her take on issues that impact students other than her own with grace and persistence. Debbie is one of the most thorough, organized, and curious people I know. Over the years, I’ve appreciated how she always researches an issue before offering an opinion. She is humble about what she knows and what she needs to learn more about. When Debbie commits to something, she puts the work in. These are the kinds of qualities that are important in a board member. I have never written a letter to the editor. But when your good friend tells you she’s running for the BOE, you write to get the word out to as many people as possible. Please vote for Debbie on April 6. — Cara Lanza Hurley, Hinsdale