Peoria School Board Taps Conservative Mom as New President

By Staff Reporter |

The Peoria Unified School District (PUSD) has elected Heather Rooks as its new board president, marking a significant shift in leadership dynamics. The decision occurred during an eight-hour study session on Thursday, with Rooks receiving support from board members Janelle Bowles, Jeff Tobey, and Becky Proudfit, while Melissa Ewing voted against her without providing any rationale for her decision.

Rooks’ election came after Proudfit attempted to secure a reelection, obtaining only Ewing’s vote in her favor. The board’s shift in leadership has sparked discussions among community members, many of whom expressed optimism about Rooks’ focus on parental involvement and support for public schools.

Nikki Eancheff, a local advocate, shared her positive experiences with Rooks, stating she helped navigate crucial school procedures during a troubling incident involving her daughter. “Mrs. Rooks was elected by parents to be our voice and champion,” Eancheff affirmed, reflecting a sentiment echoed by other parents.

Kristen Balthis of the Peoria Principals’ Association articulated the need for a leader who fosters an environment conducive to students’ educational growth. Meanwhile, Teddy Todd, a vocal community figure, expressed hope that the newly elected president would cultivate trust and collaboration within the board.

Contrastingly, members of the teachers’ unions voiced their concerns regarding Rooks’ election. Trina Berg, president of the Peoria Education Association (PEA), advocated for Proudfit’s reelection, questioning whether Rooks’ pending legal issues with PUSD posed a conflict of interest. Rooks is currently engaged in a lawsuit against the district over the restriction of quoting Bible verses during meetings, a case supported by the First Liberty Institute.

Berg criticized Rooks’ leadership approach, particularly her past choice to withdraw from executive meetings and her failure to address misinformation among supporters. “Allowing misconceptions to flourish is not leadership material,” she stated.

The push for Proudfit’s reelection was also echoed by Devon Moseler, PEA vice president, who emphasized the importance of transparency and constructive communication in board decisions. Proudfit’s husband, Taylor, further urged board members to reconsider their endorsement of Rooks, arguing that their votes did not reflect constituents’ wishes.

Rooks’ rise to presidency reflects a broader shift within the board, notably influenced by the recent elections of Bowles and Tobey, solidifying a conservative majority. This transition follows previous criticism that PUSD had adopted policies aligned with progressive ideologies, including those related to gender identity provisions under Title IX.

A district graduate, Rooks has made her stance clear on several contentious issues, advocating for parental rights, academic integrity, and transparency. Her campaign policies explicitly opposed mandates surrounding COVID-19 and the incorporation of Critical Race Theory in classrooms.