Jeffery Robert Arulandu: 2023 candidate for Batavia District 101 school board
Bio
Town: Unincorporated Kane County (Geneva mailing address)
Age on Election Day: 49
Occupation: Engineer
Employer: Caterpillar
Previous offices held: None
Q&A
Q: Why are you running for this office, whether for reelection or election the first time? Is there a particular issue that motivates you?
A: Use the skills and experiences I have gained to help the community for which I reside.
Q: What is the role of the school board in setting and monitoring curriculum?
A: In collaboration with the administration and teachers, the role of the school board is to evaluate the curriculum on a regular basis to ensure it is preparing students for their future endeavors.
Q: Are there curriculum issues within the district that you feel need particular attention from the board?
A: Curriculum issues brought up by students, teachers, or community should be given the proper attention of the board. This requires listening and understanding all points of view.
Q: How do you view your role in confronting policy or curriculum controversies: provide leadership even if unpopular, give a voice to constituents - even ones with whom you disagree, or defer to state authorities?
A: My role is to listen and understand from constituents all point of view on a particular issue. It is up to me to use my skills and experiences to break down the issue and ask what is in the best interest of the students and their educational pursuit. Even if unpopular, the best interest of the students will be the guide.
Q: Concerns are growing regarding a new resurgence of the pandemic. If another massive outbreak of infectious disease occurs, what have we learned from the COVID-19 pandemic that will guide your decision making?
A: We have learned that students, teachers, and staff are resilient. Give them the necessary resources and they will make the best of an unfortunate situation. I believe that the data and science must be followed for protection of students, teachers, and staff.
Q: Describe your experience working in a group setting to determine policy. What is your style in such a setting to reach agreement and manage school district policy? Explain how you think that will be effective in producing effective actions and decisions of your school board.
A: Through professional experiences, I have had many opportunities to work with diverse teams to manage timelines, budget, and customer requirements. These experiences will undoubtedly help me to listen to our district stakeholders and collaborate to reach agreement on school issues and policy.
Q: What makes you the best candidate for the job?
A: Skills acquired through professional experience working with diverse team to manage timelines, budget, and customer requirements. Personal experience as first generation American with a deep respect for public school education and the impact it can have on a child.
Q: What's one good idea you have to better your district that no one is talking about yet?
A: BPS101 being recognized as one of the best academic districts in the country. Promoting academic achievement for all students within the district through talented teachers/staff and best in class facilities. Make Batavia a destination community because of its schools.