Former School District U46 board member Traci O’Neal Ellis returned to the district board room Monday night — only this time as a resident.
Two weeks after resigning her school board seat, O’Neal Ellis was honored by the district and board during the Monday meeting. She was presented with a “recognition of service” plaque for her seven years on the board, a tradition for members who have resigned or whose terms have ended.
“You all have just poured out love and support for me these last couple of weeks and I am so grateful,” O’Neal Ellis said at the meeting Monday. “I got more than I gave, and it was my absolute honor to serve this district, to serve the students, to serve the administration, to serve the teachers, and to serves these kids.”
O’Neal Ellis — who will be pursuing a larger social activism role on a national level — thanked most of the board members and said she was happy to be leaving the district “in good hands.” She noticeably left out the names of board members Jeanette Ward and Phil Costello, with whom she frequently sparred while on the board.
“We appreciate and thank you for your service for seven years from not only us, but from students and staff and everyone in U46,” board President Donna Smith told O’Neal Ellis.
In addition to the plaque, O’Neal Ellis also received the nameplate that identified her when she was part of the board.
It is expected O’Neal Ellis’ successor will be named by the board at its June 4 meeting. U46 chief legal officer Miguel Rodriguez said seven people have submitted applications to fill the vacancy ahead of a Wednesday afternoon deadline.
Twitter @rafaguerrero14
