Candidate Q&A
Why are you running?
I am running for the Chicago Public School Board because I am passionate about advocating for equitable education, ensuring that every child has access to quality learning experiences regardless of their background. My experiences as a CPS student and a community activist have shaped my understanding of the challenges faced by students, teachers, and families. I want to use my voice and experience to champion fair funding, restorative justice practices, and community-driven initiatives that uplift our schools and neighborhoods.
Why are you the most qualified candidate?
I am the most qualified candidate due to my extensive experience as an advocate for students, my involvement in political activism, and my understanding of the CPS system. As a former CPS student, I know firsthand the struggles faced by students in underserved communities. My work with SOUL and my political experience have equipped me with the knowledge and drive to address systemic inequalities and work toward a more just and equitable school system.
What is the biggest issue facing your specific school board district?
The biggest issue facing our district is the lack of equitable funding and resources for schools. Many schools in our district struggle with insufficient funding, which affects access to quality programs, mental health services, arts, and vocational education. Additionally, our facilities need refurbishment to provide a safe and healthy learning environment, free from hazards like asbestos and mold.
How has your district been impacted by the shuttering of CPS schools?
The shuttering of CPS schools in our district has led to a loss of vital community spaces, increased class sizes, and strained resources at the remaining schools. Many of these closed buildings remain empty, contributing to blight in the community rather than serving as potential hubs for educational or community programs. This has resulted in students traveling farther to attend school, exacerbating the challenges of accessing quality education.
How have your district’s schools been impacted by students who are new arrivals to the U.S. and how should CPS best accommodate those students and families?
Our district's schools have faced challenges in meeting the needs of new arrival students, especially those who are English learners. To accommodate these students and families, CPS should prioritize enhancing bilingual education programs, hiring more certified bilingual teachers, and providing culturally responsive support services. Schools should work closely with community organizations to create welcoming environments and ensure that families have access to the resources they need to support their children's education.
How do you believe the school board should handle the looming fiscal crisis at Chicago Public Schools?
The school board should address the fiscal crisis through a combination of strategies, including seeking additional state funding, pursuing revenue enhancements, and reallocating resources to prioritize essential programs. While borrowing can be considered, it should be approached cautiously, with a clear plan for managing future repayment. I also support a third-party independent audit of CPS to identify areas for cost-saving and ensure transparency in financial decisions.
A moratorium on closing CPS schools is set to expire in January. Should CPS consolidate more schools?
CPS should be very cautious about consolidating more schools. Before making any decisions, we need to thoroughly assess the potential impact on students, families, and communities. Closing schools can lead to increased travel times and overcrowding in other schools, exacerbating educational disparities. Instead, we should explore ways to revitalize and repurpose underutilized facilities to benefit the community, such as turning them into early childhood education centers or community hubs.
What is your position on closing selective enrollment schools?
I do not support closing selective enrollment schools. These schools provide valuable opportunities for students to pursue advanced academic programs. However, we must ensure that access to selective enrollment schools is equitable and does not disadvantage students from underserved communities. We should work towards creating high-quality educational programs in all neighborhood schools so that quality education is not limited to selective enrollment institutions.
What is your position on charter schools?
Charter schools can play a role in providing diverse educational options. However, I believe they should be held to the same standards of accountability, transparency, and equity as traditional public schools. It is crucial that charter schools do not divert resources from neighborhood public schools, and they must be part of a comprehensive strategy to serve the broader goals of equity and access within the public education system.
Is your campaign being supported by the Chicago Teachers Union?
Yes
The Chicago Teachers Union wants the district to focus on retrofitting schools with equipment that will battle the effects of climate change. Is spending money that way right now a good idea with the massive deficit the district faces?
Yes, addressing climate change in schools is essential for creating a safe and healthy learning environment. While we are facing a budget deficit, retrofitting schools can be seen as a long-term investment. Energy-efficient upgrades can lead to future cost savings and create a healthier environment for students, particularly in underserved communities that are often more affected by environmental hazards. We should explore grant opportunities and partnerships to help fund these initiatives without placing additional strain on the budget.
What is your biggest priority and what do you hope to accomplish on the Chicago Board of Education?
My biggest priority is to ensure equitable funding and resources for every school in our district, with a strong focus on improving special education services. I aim to achieve a fair distribution of funds that prioritizes the needs of underserved communities, enhances early childhood education, and refurbishes school facilities to provide safe learning environments free from hazards like asbestos and mold. Additionally, I hope to amplify student voices, promote restorative justice practices, and work closely with Local School Councils to create community-driven educational policies that address the unique needs of each school.