Oswego-based School District 308 Board President Donna Marino has resigned unexpectedly.
District administrators released a statement this week saying Marino submitted a notice of resignation. Attempts to reach Marino for comment were unsuccessful.
Board Vice President Latonya Simelton will assume the board’s leadership role as president.
Marino began her four-year term on the board after winning a seat in the April 6, 2021, election. She was the top vote-getter in a field of seven candidates vying for four open spots on the board.
“Dr. Marino explained her resignation was a very difficult decision, but necessary for the well-being of herself and her family,” according to a district statement.
The district and board members express gratitude to Marino for her service and leadership on the board, according to the statement.
Marino touted her skills as a licensed clinical psychologist, especially in the time of the pandemic, in her campaign for the board seat in responses to questions from The Beacon-News before last year’s election.
“I have a rich understanding of child development, childhood learning, mental health and learning disorders, and how each of our decisions on the board will impact our children,” Marino said.
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Marino prior to her election said she has worked for more than 20 years as a therapist and executive coach for small businesses.
“I have been excellent at mediating situations where there is a high level of conflict between the differing parties,” she said at the time.
Marino was not present at the Feb. 10 board meeting which was originally set to be virtual out of public safety concerns. The board decided instead to hold an in-person meeting at the Oswego East High School Performing Arts Center.
The board abruptly ended the meeting early after repeated disruptions from some parents demanding an end to the school mask mandate.
Linda Girardi is a freelance reporter for The Beacon-News.