Larry O'Neill

Larry O'Neill is by far the senior member of the Milwaukee School Board, having been first elected in 1977. Despite his longevity, he has not left much of a mark on MPS. Cautious by nature, he seems reluctant to take the lead on issues, even those he has long supported. For example, his board profile lists a goal as "the reduction of student busing through the establishment of neighborhood schools." Yet he was reluctant to embrace the Neighborhood Schools Initiative when it was first introduced. Although likeable, he appears to have no interest in building coalitions among board members for specific measures.

O'Neill has an occasional independent streak. He was the only board member to oppose the proposed bond issue twelve years ago, probably reflecting its unpopularity in his district. Although generally considered part of the 5-member pro-MTEA majority, he regards Morales and Blewett as overly ideological. His sense of propriety is offended at Charlene Hardin's sometimes disruptive behavior; at a recent board meeting, he took time to denounce in detail her behavior in committee--without mentioning her name.

It is unclear if he will run for re-election.