LOYAL. LOCAL. COMPLETE.
By Victoria leitch
vleitch@prairiepress.net
PARIS—A leadership transition took place during the April 28 special meeting of the Paris Union School District 95 Board of Education. The board honored two long-serving members, John Sanchez and Tom Tuttle, for their years of dedicated service and officially welcomed three new members to help guide the district into the future.
John Sanchez was recognized for an impressive 13-year tenure on the board, serving from 2012 to 2025. Known for his technical expertise and community-centered leadership, Sanchez contributed to numerous district projects and initiatives. He held the position of Vice President of the Board for the past 10 years and served as the district’s representative at the Illinois Association of School Boards (IASB) throughout his service.
Sanchez played a key role in the development of the new high school and was known for his hands-on support with audiovisual issues at various district facilities. His involvement in community projects like the Allen Field basketball courts and consistent support of local initiatives such as the May Fete event underscored his deep commitment to Paris 95. In his departing remarks, Sanchez reflected on the value of community connection.
“I feel I put over 110% into being a part of the school board. I listened, I followed up and I acted on the concerns of the people,” he said.
Tom Tuttle, another pillar of the board, concluded 16 years of service, having been elected in 2009. A former president of the Paris Cooperative High School Board, Tuttle was instrumental in launching the high school co-op program and was a key figure in numerous district committees, including six successful contract negotiations.
Tuttle also received the IASB Governance Award in 2022 and was known for his tireless support of youth athletics, volunteering as a coach across multiple sports programs. His leadership helped bring vital programs to life, such as the alternative education and PALAS programs, middle school athletic facilities, expanded early childhood education and free meal services for all students.
Though a man of few words, Tuttle expressed gratitude for his time on the board.
“I enjoyed serving on the board. I think we’re in a good place, and I welcome the new board members with a lot of luck. Thank you all very much,” he said.
Following the certification of the April 1 election, the board welcomed Scott Foster, Faith Milam and Greg Sabens as new members. All three were sworn in during the reorganization meeting and assumed their respective duties with enthusiasm and readiness to serve.
In a unanimous vote, Sabens was elected as the new Board President. Mark Dalby was elected Vice President, continuing his service on the board with increased responsibility, while Faith Milam, one of the newly elected members, was named Board Secretary. Rounding out the new leadership team, Chris Milan was elected Treasurer, with the board approving the compensation for the role at $0 in accordance with Illinois law.
The newly restructured board also appointed Sabens, Chris Milam and Dalby as representatives on the Paris Cooperative High School Board, ensuring continuity and collaboration between the two educational bodies.
With a blend of experience and new vision, the Paris 95 Board is well-positioned to build on the achievements of the past.
As Sanchez reminded everyone, “We did it for the kids, not for us. This was never about money—it was always about making a difference.”
That same spirit now lives on in the hands of the next generation of board leadership.