Kristin Massey: Candidate Profile

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Note: Answers provided have not been edited for grammar, misspellings or typos. In some instances, candidate claims that could not be immediately verified have been omitted. Jump to:BioQA Bio City: Glen EllynWebsite: Candidate did not respond.Office sought: Glen Ellyn District 41 School Board Age: 46Family: Two fantastic sons- Nathan (Freshman) and Ben (7th grade) and a wonderful husband Jeff KramerOccupation: Licensed Insurance RepresentativeEducation: Ben Franklin, Hadley and Glenbard West graduate B.S. University of Illinois - Leisure Studies/Program ManagementCivic involvement: My civic involvement primarily lies within the schools. I've been actively involved with our local PTA since 2008 serving in many capacities. Last year, I was a member of the Glenbard4Kids Ballot Initiative Committee. We led a successful campaign which resulted in the passing of a key referendum for Glenbard District 87. My key area was fundraising for the committee. In addition to my work for the schools, I have served as a Prayer Partner and taught Religious Education for two years at St Petronille's. I also currently serve as the Teams Administrator for the Golden Eagles Football Program.Elected offices held: Currently Dupage West Regional PTA Director Past President of District 41 PTA Council President of Lincoln (Glen Ellyn) Elementary PTA Vice President of Lincoln (Glen Ellyn) Elementary PTA Secretary of the Hadley PTAQuestions Answers How satisfied are you that your school district is adequately preparing students for the next stage in their lives, whether it be from elementary into high school or high school into college or full-time employment? What changes, if any, do you think need to be made?As satisfied as I am, there is always room for growth and improvement. Our district has done tremendous research and work around its vision, mission, values and the current long range plan. Having sat on the District's Continuous Improvement Team, I know that our administrators, teachers and staff want the best for all of our students. Our district continuously monitors progress, collaborates on best practices, provides teachers and staff with professional development opportunities to improve their skills and sees value in an engaged parent community. Can we do better- absolutely. I have confidence that this district has the vision and ability to continue to move forward and adapt in today's ever changing world and at the same time, be mindful of our past and present. And with the help of a strong School Board which values teamwork, perseverance, dedication and commitment, we will continue to accomplish great challenges and tasks as we ready our students for the future.What budgetary issues will your district have to confront during the next four years and what measures do you support to address them? If you believe cuts are necessary, be specific about programs and expenses that should be considered for reduction or elimination. On the income side, do you support any tax increases for local schools? Again, be specific.Our district like most will always have budgetary issues to confront from within our own backyard and outside of it. As school began in August 2014, Senate Bill 16 was at the forefront of many districts. Had SB16 been brought forward and passed, our district would have been significantly impacted. School Funding will continued to be discussed and proposed and we have to always be mindful of this. Our district also remains vigilant in resolving our facilities issues. Getting all of our students back inside our buildings, maintaining the infrastructure while continuing to evolve our facilities to the continuously changes needs all have impact on budget decisions. Our district needs to stay ahead on the changing economic times and market conditions.Are you currently employed by or retired from a school district, if so, which one? Is any member of your direct family - spouse, child or child-in-law - employed by the school district where you are seeking a school board seat?I am not currently employed by or retired from a school district nor is any member of my direct family employed by District 41.As contract talks come up with various school employee groups -- teachers, support staff, etc. -- what posture should the school board take? Do you believe the district should ask for concessions from its employees, expect employee costs to stay about the same as they are now or provide increases in pay or benefits?For many, the mere mention of contract talks and negotiations can instantly bring up negativity. However, contract talks are extremely important moments where teachers, administrators, parents, community leaders all have the opportunity to join together and partner to find best solutions to sometimes complex financial problems. Our teachers are the core of our district and our student's academic success is largely dependent on their ability, passion and desire to teach. When contract talks next come upon us, depending on the financial position of our district at the time, all things will be carefully considered, they have to be. And always with the best interest of our students.If your district had a superintendent or other administrator nearing retirement, would you support a substantial increase in his or her pay to help boost pension benefits? Why or why not?No I would not support increasing his or her pay for the sole purpose of boosting pension benefits. Providing the best education of our students should always be our goal. Reducing funding available to our students to support the economic gain of one individual does not meet that goal.What other issues, if any, are important to you as a candidate for this office?Candidate did not respond.Please name one current leader who most inspires you.Abraham Lincoln a largely self educated, motivated, forward thinking individual from humble beginnings who led our country during a time of great adversity.What's the biggest lesson you learned at home growing up?Both of my parents were from poor families. My father taught me to work hard, take care of your family and be generous to others.If life gave you one do-over, what would you spend it on?I wouldn't. Instead I believe that it's best to learn from what one may consider a "do-over", mistake or challenge and become a stronger individual.What was your favorite subject in school and how did it help you in later life?I liked almost all aspects of school. However, Math was my favorite. I work in a financial based field in which math is certainly essential.If you could give your children only one piece of advice, what would it be?To always believe in yourself and try your hardest.