Patrick C. Watson

Candidate Q&A

Why are you running?

To be a positive influence on educational polices, advocate for the needs of the students and contribute to the development of the community.

Are you in support of the most recent CPS budget that relies on uncommitted state funding?  

No I am not, because it causes uncertainty and instability in planning and budgeting.

How will you work with CPS officials and staff to balance the district’s budget? 

I will work to find solutions that are sustainable and be open to suggestions based on what teachers and principals need to operate.

Other than the budget, what is the single biggest issue facing Chicago Public Schools?

The biggest issue is the continuous decline in enrollment every year.

What is a top issue for students, schools and families in your specific school board voting district?

Safety, reduction in critical programs, access to computers and not enough parental support.

If you accept campaign contributions from special interest groups, how will you maintain independence from those donors?

I will maintain independence by standing on the platform of doing what is best for the students and their families.  This is why I am doing this.

How can current board policies and procedures be improved?

By understanding their role is to govern and to focus on voting on policies.

How should CPS and the board work to address declining enrollment?

Focus on enhancing student engagement, improve academic performances in the schools and foster a sense of belonging with families.

Do you foresee a need to close some district schools?

I think the first step is to consolidate schools with low enrollment first but at the rate things are going that is something that may need to be addressed.

Should CPS implement AI in its classrooms? What, if any, guardrails should be put in place? 

I personally don’t feel comfortable with AI so I would not be in favor of it unless there is value that can be quantified.

The board currently includes one Honorary Student Member. As the board has recently tripled in size, should that number be expanded? 

I think based on some research it appears that the number we have is probably on the higher end so I don’t think it would be necessary to expand.

How will you be responsive to student-led issues?

By listening and making myself available as needed.

Did you attend Chicago Public Schools? When/Where?

Yes I attended Chicago Vocational High School from 1979-1983.

Have you sent your children to Chicago Public Schools?

Yes I have.

Have you ever served on a Local School Council? When/Where?

I served 6 years on the LSC at Keller Regional Gifted and and 4 Years at Jones College Prep

Have you ever worked for Chicago Public Schools?

No I have not.

What neighborhood do you live in?

I live in the Historic Pullman Neighborhood.