Jessica R. Zolmierski: 2023 candidate for Carol Stream Elementary District 93 board, 4-year term

Bio

Town: Carol Stream

Age on Election Day: 39

Occupation: Teacher - middle school choir/general music

Employer: Elk Grove Township Elementary District 59

Previous offices held: Current member of the District 93 school board since May 2021

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: I was appointed to the board of education through an application and interview process after seats remained vacant with not enough candidates in the 2021 election. It was my own experiences as an educator that opened my eyes to the necessity of having a strong, open-minded school board who listens to all stakeholders before making decisions.

I am not motivated by any one particular issue. Having resided in Carol Stream the majority of my life and attending District 93 schools, I saw getting involved as a way to give back to the community that has helped to shape my life. Additionally, I wanted to offer my parent and educator voice to the table to make sure we as a district are providing each and every child with what they need to be successful in life.

I have much gratitude for the personal growth and knowledge I have gained in my short tenure on the board of education, and want to continue to be able to serve the community that I love.

Q: What is the role of the school board in setting and monitoring curriculum?

A: The board of education ensures that the district remains aligned with the priorities, needs, and values of the community. I believe the curriculum falls under this umbrella. It is the administration's role to evaluate and recommend curriculum with a committee that includes both administrators and educators.

A pilot should take place before recommendation and feedback should be given to the board. The board should be well-informed, ask questions, do their own research, and listen to all stakeholders when determining whether or not to adopt a curriculum.

In regards to monitoring the curriculum, the board should hold administration accountable to consistent monitoring and evaluating that includes determining if the curriculum promotes student growth, meets state/national standards, meets the needs of our students, teachers, and community, and if it is still aligned with the ever-changing world.

Q: Are there curriculum issues within the district that you feel need particular attention from the board?

A: Thankfully, District 93 is a strong district in which there are no gaping holes within the curriculum. The district maintains a curriculum evaluation cycle to determine effectiveness.

As a board member, I will continue to monitor administrative accountability for curriculum evaluation to make sure we are doing the best we can for our students and that our teachers have what they need to ensure student success.

I have heard from Dual Language teachers that additional curriculum/curricular resources are needed, and it has been discussed that they will be supported in this need with paid summer curriculum work. As a board member and Dual Language parent, I will continue to ask questions and monitor progress in this area.

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: I think it is first and foremost to listen to all stakeholders, ask questions, and do my own research when evaluating policy and curriculum controversies. We live in a diverse society so it is only natural that there

will be differing opinions among the community. Ideally, the board of education will also be reflective of that community as well and have respectful and thoughtful discussion when approaching a topic. Ultimately, it is important that the Board of Education put children first when making decisions.

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: I believe my experiences as an educator, parent, and board member during the COVID-19 pandemic will help guide me and be a valuable asset to the District 93 board of education. I think we all can agree that the best place for students is at school.

The situation would need to be assessed at the time, but I feel remote or hybrid instruction should be an absolute last resort. I think above all, transparency and well thought-out, informed decision making is key.

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: While I have only served on the board a short time, it has given me real-life experience working with a group to determine policy. I feel it is important that the group member's have a thoughtful discussion and listen to and consider differing points of view before acting.

I also know the importance of coming to the meeting informed on the topics/policies to be discussed.

I feel I will be effective because I will be bringing not only my parent perspective, but also my educational background to the table. This background helps me in asking questions, as well as seeing the big picture. I speak and listen with calm respect, which is necessary for effective policymaking.

I have a great deal of natural empathy and even if I disagree, I can genuinely understand where someone's opinion may be coming from. And last but not least, I always consider students, especially when the policy directly affects them.

Q: What makes you the best candidate for the job?

A: I am a unique candidate on the ballot. I am a parent, current board member, and I attended District 93 schools as a child. I am a distinguished veteran educator (District 59, Elk Grove) where I have served on numerous district and building committees. Currently, I serve as the K-8 Music lead teacher and I work closely with district administration. I have led PD on curriculum and student-led learning for the Illinois Music Educators Association.

As a student-teaching supervisor, I remain in touch with teacher training programs. These experiences have given me a depth of knowledge to bring to the board, the background to know what questions to ask, and the skills to work collaboratively in a diverse group.

I am passionate about both education and my hometown community. I cannot think of a better fit for me to give back to the community than serving as a member of the board of education. I care deeply that District 93 remains on its path of success and is a destination district.

Q: What's one good idea you have to better your district that no one is talking about yet?

A: I would love to see increased student involvement with the board of education/district administration.

It can begin as simple as student-led presentations at the board of education meetings, but can be even as elaborate as a student representative or liaison to the board.

I would love to see leaders/student council members meet with district administration and/or the board of education about their thoughts, feelings and perspectives on their experiences in the schools.