Downers Grove Grade School District 58 Board of Education appointed John Miller as its newest board member during a special meeting Monday.

Miller was one of eight candidates and is filling a seat that has been vacant since long-time board member Thomas Cunningham resigned Sept. 21.

“I wanted to volunteer in the community and do something positive,” Miller said. “I think everyone should get involved in the community and the schools at the grade school level. There is nothing more important that educating our kids.”

This is the first time Miller has applied or ran for a position on the School Board.

Board President Elizabeth Davis said the interviewing process has been difficult for the board, and members have received a lot of input and listened to the community.

“They were all qualified individuals and we were privileged to interview with these candidates,” Davis said.

The board asked Miller and Micahel Davenport back for a second round of interviews during closed session Monday before announcing Miller as the new member.

Board members Gary Lester and Scott O’Connell said there were eight excellent candidates, and it was a tough decision.

“We are fortunate to have so many people interested and applying,” O’Connell said.

Miller said he is eager to get started. One challenge he sees coming up is deciding financially what programs the district can support. One of his focuses will be keeping programs that help identify problems at an early age.

Overall, District 58 is on the right path, but Miller said he wants to focus on those few students who might need extra help.

“We do very well on tests, but I want to focus on the 5 percent and find if we are truly bringing them up,” Miller said. “The more we can do to identify those areas, during budget times, that is the one area I will look at to make sure we don’t ignore, when it comes down to what programs to go forward with.”

Miller said he is excited to step into his new role and is looking forward to the opportunity to help out.