The Forest Park Review sent questionnaires to each person running for public office in 2025. The Review’s questions are in bold and the candidate’s responses are below.
With a new presidential administration has come sweeping federal changes affecting public schools. How would you look to guide the district in this new climate?
First, we need to understand the impact and gather the information needed to get a full picture of each situation as it arises. After a better understanding, we will need to work together to mitigate any impact for our students making sure they have the resources needed to be successful post high school. As a team we should gather all of the ideas and be creative and effective in our solutions that are best for student outcomes. It is important that we as a board are educated in changes in policies, procedures both at the state and federal levels and have a leader, like the current superintendent, who has experience with education at the state and local levels.
What is your impression of new superintendent Krish Mohip? How would you look to work with him if elected?
Superintendent Mohip came in with a plan and a proven record of success. He genuinely cares for Proviso students and wants to engage entire community. I’ve met him several times and I look forward to working with him in the future. It is important as a board that we work together on our goals and mission for the district and set our expectations for how he leads the district. It is also important that the Board and Superintendent work collaboratively towards common goals and build strong relationships for the greater good of the District.
It’s no secret that there has been a high rate of turnover in the D209 superintendent position. What do you make of that and how would you work to support more stability in the district administration?
The recent plan implemented is to have an Assistant Superintendent ready to step up for a cohesive transition of leadership. Mentorship in an educational setting is critical, not only for the Superintendent position, for Board positions also. Always thinking 5-10 years ahead will promote stability within the District as well as engage more community members to step up into these important roles. We should focus on building an environment where we are providing leadership opportunities for all of our stakeholders within our school communities.
What does equity in education mean to you? How would you advocate for it if elected?
Equity means meeting each student where they are and providing the services needed for their success. It also means providing equitable professional development opportunities to our teachers. As an ecological advocate, diversity matters, both inside and outside of the classroom. Curriculum, policies, and resources should reflect the diversity of our District communities to ensure equitability.
Is there any program or resource you’ve seen implemented in another school district that you think Proviso students and families would really benefit from? How would it fill an existing gap?
As a Triton College Student and Tutor, I am part of a peer-to-peer program working with students. I was also the beneficiary of peer-to-peer mentoring when I changed school districts at a young age. Filling these gaps looks like more mentoring, especially across generations, and professional development in the areas of English Language Learners, Special Education and Mental Health. Proviso has amazing resources and community members advocating in these areas of opportunity within the District.