Candidate Q&A
Why are you running?
I spent 27 years as a Chicago Police Officer helping and serving people with different backgrounds, races, religions and neighborhoods. That taught me the importance of de-escalation, listening accountability, transparency and treating people fairly. I want to bring the same approach to the board and be the voice for the students, teachers, working families and bring responsible financial management. I will ultimately vote based on what’s best for students.
Are you in support of the most recent CPS budget that relies on uncommitted state funding?
The recent CPS budget was irresponsible, hoping $150mil might be paid by the state leaving a gap if unpaid and a mid term possible strike. This decision only hinders the education of the CPS students. Where now more than ever is needed for the success of their future after CPS.
How will you work with CPS officials and staff to balance the district’s budget?
The board needs to come together and demonstrate transparency and accountability in the budget and also that CPS is using resources it has responsibly. Public money requires responsible spending.
Other than the budget, what is the single biggest issue facing Chicago Public Schools?
Education policy should be supported by facts and evidence. It’s important to separate personal agendas from the classroom and get back to evidence based teaching so the kids can graduate and succeed in the future. To many children are not on grade level.
What is a top issue for students, schools and families in your specific school board voting district?
Top issue in my district for students and schools are dilapidated sports fields for many years. Working families and taxpayers are concerned with more tax levy’s. I wont ask working families for more money. CPS has to demonstrate that is using recourses it has responsibly
If you accept campaign contributions from special interest groups, how will you maintain independence from those donors?
I am grateful for the support and confidence they shown in my campaign. However, endorsement or support do not determine how I will vote on the board. I am evidence based and an independent thinker, my first priority will always be our students. I will listen to parents, teachers, school leaders and taxpayers and review facts and make decisions based on what I believe is in the best interest of CPS students.
How can current board policies and procedures be improved?
I would improve current board policies and procedures by making them more transparent, accountable and responsive to families. Strengthen public participation, make board information and financial decisions easier for the public to understand. Policies should be reviewed regularly to determine whether they are actually working for students. Most of all I want the board to listen to the people it represents.
How should CPS and the board work to address declining enrollment?
We first have to understand why families are leaving and then respond to concerns. We should focus on improving academic outcomes, school safety, attendance, career technical education and extracurricular opportunities.
Do you foresee a need to close some district schools?
Every decision should start with “What’s best for the child”. I want to understand first why the school is struggling and are students getting the basic curriculum, sports and art classes. We have to look at evidence and hear from leadership and is there an improvement plan. Ultimately we have to put children first. If a school consistently fails then there has to be accountability. I support improvement but don’t compromise accountability.
Should CPS implement AI in its classrooms? What, if any, guardrails should be put in place?
Yes, I believe CPS can responsibly use AI in the classroom, but there has to be guardrails. AI should be used as a tool to support teachers and students, not as a replacement for teachers and independent thinkers. CPS must establish age appropriate guidelines, protect student privacy and check for accuracy and bias. Most importantly ensure students are being evaluated on their own knowledge and skills. AI should reinforce critical thinking and facts rather than a shortcut around learning.
The board currently includes one Honorary Student Member. As the board has recently tripled in size, should that number be expanded?
Yes. One student member cannot fully represent the experiences and perspectives of students across CPS. They should have opportunities to speak on issues affecting students participate in discussions and bring feedback from peers.
How will you be responsive to student-led issues?
By making sure students have a direct and meaningful way to bring their concerns to me. I will listen to student representatives, attend school meetings when possible and create opportunities for students to share their experiences and ideas. Work with CPS leadership and the board to address issues and follow up with students so they know what action was taken and why.
Did you attend Chicago Public Schools? When/Where?
Curie H.S. 82-86, Richard J Daley College 86-88
Have you sent your children to Chicago Public Schools?
I do not have children.
Have you ever served on a Local School Council? When/Where?
No.
Have you ever worked for Chicago Public Schools?
No.
What neighborhood do you live in?
Norwood Pk Ward 41