Terry O'Brien: Candidate Profile

Bio

Name: Terry O'Brien

City: Lake Villa

Website:

Twitter: @DrTerryOBrien

Facebook:

Office sought: Write-in candidate for Lake County Regional Superintendent of Schools

Age: 51

Family:

Occupation: Director of Business, Beach Park District 3

Education: BA: English / MA: Counseling/Education Leadership / Ed.D.: Educational Leadership

Civic involvement: Member, P.M. & L. Community Theatre, Antioch

Elected offices held: Board of Trustees, Lake Villa District Library

Questions & Answers

Question 1: If you are an incumbent, describe your main contributions. Tell us of any important initiatives you've led. If you are a challenger, what would you bring to the board and what would your priority be?

As an educator for over 20 years, my focus has been to provide outstanding educational opportunities for all students regardless of political affiliation, race sex, age, disability, national origin, religion, or sexual orientation. I am an accomplished and experienced executive school administrator with strong interpersonal skills and problem-solving abilities. As an educator for over 20 years, I have promoted and nurtured positive and supportive relationships, where all students regardless of political affiliation are provided outstanding educational programs.

With my thoughtful commitment to continual professional development, combined with best-practice, I provide a dynamic and competitive environment for learning opportunities within Lake County. My energetic background of expecting high standards with accountability, delivers progressive teaching and learning. The experienced approach of steward leadership welcomes all members of the community with equality and respect while encouraging and nurturing outstanding education and learning for all.

Question 2: Is there a particular issue that motivates you?

I believe the regional superintendent should be independent, nonpartisan, and unaffiliated with political parties to allow the education of students; parents; community members; and professional educators who reside in Lake County to be the focus.

Question 3: Why is the role of regional superintendent important?

The mission of the Regional Office of Superintendent is important to be the advocate for Lake County education, including supervision of school districts, advising and assisting teachers and educators, providing professional development and support, and ensuring school safeguards are in place for the safety of the Lake County children.

Question 4: Is this one of those offices that can be eliminated through consolidation?

With almost 50 different school districts expensing over a billion dollars for educational programs, I believe it would be difficult to consolidate without jeopardizing the quality of services that could be offered by the regional office of education

Question 5: Can more be done to get technology in the hands of low-income students?

There can be more done to get technology into the classroom at all schools within Lake County, particularly low-income students, by assisting with grant opportunities and working with State legislators to fund financially disadvantaged schools to increase access to technology. 21st Century learners require an applied understanding and integration of technology within the classroom.