Below are candidate-submitted answers to a biographical survey Forest Park Review sent out to all candidates running in this year’s elections.
Age: 43
Profession: Police Office FPPD
Years in Forest Park: 10 years
Are you a District 91 graduate?
No, I am not. I was born and raised on the south side of Chicago
Do you have children who have, are or will be attending District 91 schools? What are their ages?
My wife and I have three children, who all attend Forest Park schools. They are 9, 11 and 13 years old.
Why are you running for this office?
I have a strong sense of public service and have always enjoyed it. When I learned of the openings for school board seats, I saw an opportunity to help the community and the school district.
Have you ever run for or served in a local political office before? If so, when and which office? I have not.
Are there individuals or groups which actively encouraged your interest in running for the board?
No. I am running based on my interest in public service, this community and our schools.
What do you consider to be the greatest strengths of District 91?
Our district serves a community of diverse learners and has to respond to a variety of different perspectives and needs. I think the district does this admirably while maintaining a low student/teacher ratio. We also provide a variety of services and programs to our students, allowing our learners to glean the most from their educational experience. The district also is in a solid fiscal position and is debt free, a challenging feat in today’s economy.
What are your strongest concerns about the district at this time?
I would like to make our schools as safe as possible by improving our school safety plans. It is also important for us to make sure we are keeping pace with technological trends in education. I also feel that we need to preserve, protect and encourage the progressive, out-of-the box style of education we are known for in this district.
How many district meetings have you attended in the past two year?
At the time of submission of this questionnaire, I have attended one.
