My campaign for District 200 Board of Education was born out of my love and appreciation for Oak Park and River Forest High School and the promise of what it can become. I believe OPRF can live up to its commitment to ensure that all students are well-equipped to take on the challenges of our complex, culturally diverse, and ever-changing world. And I believe it can be done in a fiscally responsible way.
My family and I moved to Oak Park 10 years ago and fell in love with the community’s diversity, friendly neighbors, and excellent schools. Our daughter, Breanna, matriculated through Holmes, Brooks, and OPRF, and is now a freshman in the UIC Honors Program. Along her educational journey, we began to realize that there were many inequities, which became increasingly visible throughout her high school years.
My volunteer involvement at the high school has given me insight into the realities, needs, and possibilities. For the past two years, I’ve served as a member of the D200 Culture, Climate and Behavior Committee where I have been thoroughly engaged in the goal of creating more equitable experiences for our students. I’m also a member of D200’s Community Council which serves in an advisory capacity to the high school administration and Board of Education.
My dream is that my two young sons, Kemuel and Khayan, will attend an OPRF that encourages their success, is well along the path of eradicating structural racism and bias, and truly embodies excellence and equity in all facets of student life. My commitment to the residents of Oak Park and River Forest is to strive to ensure that each student has the opportunities and support needed to blossom and thrive.
I also pledge to respectfully and responsibly manage the finances of the residents of Oak Park and River Forest. We can find creative ways to meet the needs of our students without continuous tax increases. Holding the line on property taxes is critical if we value racial and economic diversity in our communities.
As a business owner and project manager, I have managed large-scale budgets. This involves minimizing costs while maximizing efficiencies and impact. Delivering sound judgment and excellent service has been the key to my continued success. I will bring this same skillset to the school board.
On April 6, I humbly ask for your vote. With your support, I believe OPRF can, and will be, a stellar school we can all take pride in, where all students are fully prepared for success.
