Ken Dawson: 2023 Candidate for Community High School District 99 School Board

Bio

Town: Downers Grove

Age on Election Day: 64

Occupation:

Employer:

Previous offices held: Board of Directors of BBF Family Services in Chicago for 10 years. Board of Directors of The Fellowship of Christian Athletes for 5 years. President of Y.E.S. Fundraising Group at LaRabida Children's Hospital.

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: Our son Brian, is a product of the excellent public schools here in Downers Grove. He attended Kingsley Elementary, O'Neill Middle School, and South High School. The academic excellence and strong foundation Brian received at South High School has prepared him for the future. Now I have an opportunity to give back to our community. It is my responsibility to give back to our schools and ensure that this pipeline to success is available for every future student at South and North High Schools.

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

A: The role of the school board is to ensure that the superintendent is setting the proper curriculum and we agree on the curriculum and objectives. As a board we want to ensure metrics are in place to track the progress and to ensure success.

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

A: We need to ensure that every student has the opportunity to receive the best education. The board should continue to review and make sure the proper courses, books and activities are being utilized to the fullest at both South and North High Schools. The board should also ensure the teachers and support staff have the resources they need to be successful.

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 as a member of the Board of Directors is to make decisions that are in the best interests of the students. Make decisions which are fiscally responsible. It is important for me to be empathetic to the concerns of all parents and the community. And to ensure that teachers and support staff have the support they need to ensure that each student is provided the guidance and resources they need to be successful in a caring, student-centered environment.

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: Our school's must focus on giving students the best education while adhering to our region's public health guidelines and standards. Total consideration must be given to the health of all of our students and their families; our teachers, support staff, and their families.

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: As a Senior Vice-President: Board of Directors - BBF Family Services, I led a multi-disciplinary 12-person team that redefined the mission statement and developed the long-term strategic plan of the organization. BBF Family Services provided education programs and family support services to over 4,000 children and their families in Chicago. I am a solutions-driven leader with excellent communication and relationship skills to create alignment within organizations.

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

A: I believe that None Of Us Is As Good As All Of Us. Kara Casten, Don Renner, and I are the best candidates for the job. We are committed to ensuring Educational Excellence for all students of District 99. I am passionate about having the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of the students and parents of District 99. As a member of the Board of Directors I will leverage my decades of corporate experience, with strong collaboration and team player skills. I have great interpersonal skills with the willingness to listen thoughtfully to others. I will represent the entire community and not special interest or partisan political groups. I will be working together with all Board Members to ensure that we stay on track with our new 2022-2027 Strategic Plan - Future Focused, Future Ready. As an African American Father of a 2018 South graduate and a 25 year resident, I will add a diverse perspective for the Board of Education.

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

A: We need to continue to focus on recruiting and retaining top quality teachers and support staff. We currently have a shortage of substitute teachers and support staff.