The thumbnail sketch and reasons for running were compiled by Mary Helt Gavin from information provided by the candidate. Answers to the questions are in the candidate’s own words.
Thumbnail Sketch: Education: degree in Business Accounting. Current employment: career in sales and customer service. Evanston ties: third-generation Evanstonian; single mother of four boys, three in District 65. Volunteer/Civic activities: President of Advocates for Action, treasurer of Chute PTA, minster at Christ Temple Ministry Baptist Church.
Why She’s Running and What She Brings: My lived experiences along with my drive have prepared be me the diverse thought the board is missing.
Top Three Priorities and Reasons for Them
To advocate for the acceptance and equity of all children, cultivate systems that sustain family wellbeing and stability, elevate access to information for all D65 community.
Two Recent Board Positives
In 2019 District 65 implemented that all D65 staff and personnel complete Equity and Diversity training. Also Algebra for all was added to the curriculum to ensure all of our middle school students have the opportunity to accelerate a year beyond expected by the time the enter high school.
Addressing 5Essentials Survey Results
I would recommend re-administering the survey given where we were then and where we are now. This was prior to the introduction of hybrid learning, I would also say families have a new found respect for their teachers in having to come up with creative ways to keep our students engaged. Leadership in my opinion has demonstrated courage and strength in these unprecedented times.
Addressing the Joint Literacy Goal
It all begins with feeling accepted. Hiring more diverse teachers would create a comfortable and safe space for students to learn. Creating more opportunities for our children to be taught in their homeschools would give them the since of community. Which would then give them the freedom to feel comfortable to make a mistake, ask for help and not feel inferior to their peers.
HI could you elaborate on this candidate’s employment and career experience? Under “current employment” it simply says, “career in sales and customer service.” Please provide some detail. Where does she work? She doesn’t appear to have a website, so I have not been able to find out this basic information,