Emanuel “Chris” Welch kept his promise to step down as president of the Proviso Township High School D 209 School Board on Tuesday, handing the gavel, literally, to Vice President Dan Adams. Welch was sworn in last week to his new post in the Illinois legislature.
“The challenges that face our state and our district are many,” Welch said. “As such, in order to devote enough time and energy to the residents of our district and the issues that lie ahead, tonight, I am stepping down as president.”
Welch will continue to serve on the board until the April 9 election. After the election, the new board will choose a president and other officers from within its ranks.
Welch touted the board’s accomplishments under his tenure, including building Proviso Math and Science Academy, “one of the best schools in the entire state of Illinois.”
He also praised the board for financially digging out of a multi-million dollar hole.
“We balanced the district’s budget for four consecutive years, we achieved the highest financial recognition from the state, and we did all of this and still provided free bus transportation, free breakfast and free lunch to those in need,” he said.
Welch spoke of his service on the board as a stepping stone to more public service.
Welch said Thursday he was looking forward to the future.
“I was honored to take the oath of office for the 7th District, and I was honored and humbled to serve as board president. I wish Mr. Adams and the board much success. I think they’re going to do well.”
