Name: Jeanette Ward
POSITION FOR WHICH YOU ARE A CANDIDATE:
School District U-46
Why are you seeking this position?
In my 1st term I worked to ensure board member access to closed session recordings, resulting in a bill passed unanimously in the IL legislature. I supported the 1st charter school, increasing parental choice. I advocated for transparency via release of closed session minutes, and elevated dialogue regarding academic freedom/diversity of thought. Challenges remain. “Pathways” implementation must prepare students for college/career, while preserving a general education option. Tax levies continue to increase in spite of declining enrollment and increased IL funding; this cannot continue. Curriculum resources restrict academic freedom/diversity of thought. This must change. Finally, privacy/safety for all students/teachers must be secured.
What experience and background do you have which qualifies you for this position?
I hold a B.S. in Environmental Resource Management, an M.S. in Environmental Science and Health (Option, Environmental Chemistry), and an M.B.A. I have served as a U-46 Board member for the past 4 years and have I volunteered extensively in my daughter’s U-46 elementary classrooms. This year, I volunteered and trained with my U-46 middle-school daughter’s cross-country team.
What will be your greatest challenge if elected?
My greatest challenge will be advocating for and voting on implementation of curriculum that improves student performance, especially in math, instead of reliance on one-size-fits-all national curriculum standards that have resulted in decreasing student performance.
Will you attend the March 23rd Elgin Candidate Forum? Yes, I will attend the forum
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