John K. Rutledge: 2025 candidate for Wheaton Warrenville Unit District 200 board

Bio

Office sought: Wheaton Warrenville Unit District 200

City: Wheaton

Age: 80

Occupation: Retired real estate consultant

Previous offices held: Wheaton City Council 2011-21, CUSD 200 School Board 2023-25 (current)

Why are you running for this office? Is there a particular issue that motivates you?

We live in an excellent area, one that attracts residents largely due to the excellent schools. I am committed to public service, and I am honored to serve in a governance role for District 200. My family members have received educations that have prepared them for academic and career success. My sole motivation is to see future generations have the same opportunity.

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

The superintendent has selected curriculum experts who are highly educated and experienced in curriculum design. They are constantly seeking better materials, testing them for effectiveness, and making recommendations. I believe the board should question the process leading to the recommendation, alternatives considered, and the reason for the recommendation, and then monitor test scores and other indications of results.

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

The administration continues to expand offerings of dual credit courses, a step above A/P with acceptance for credit at COD and other colleges. For students looking for a career in the trades, course and experience opportunities continue to expand. The Portrait of a Graduate guides the district in preparing every student for what comes next, and that requires a constant reevaluation of course and training offerings.

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?

I have a history of studying agenda materials and doing independent research. I avoid taking a position until necessary because I want to continue gaining information, including information which may cause me to change my mind. I listen to constituents, although I may not agree with them.

I am no smarter than the next person, but I may be better informed from my study. During my city council days, I occasionally found it necessary to vote for the benefit of the city over the objections of my constituents. Of course, I am not prepared to defy state or federal law.

Describe your experience working in a group setting to determine policy. What is your style in such a setting to reach an agreement and manage school district policy? Explain how you think that will be effective in producing effective actions and decisions for your school board.

Consideration of diverse viewpoints invariably leads to better group decisions which should be supported by all members. I have served on numerous boards and committees of charitable and professional organizations, and most have been effective if the members truly listen to each other.

It is important to remember that the school board is there for governance/oversight, not administration and management. That is the job of the superintendent.

What is your assessment of the school district's diversity and equity efforts? Do you support the continuation or enhancement of such programs, of would you rather see them diminished. Please explain your reasoning.

I would like to see our teachers and other employees reflect the diversity of our students, and that should not conflict with getting the best teachers available. I would like to see our applicant pool expanded, because we can only hire from among those who want to work here.

What makes you the best candidate for the job?

I have no agenda or political aspirations other than good governance, and I have the experience for that role.

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

I would like to see more intergovernmental cooperation. We already have various agreements with park districts and others, but I believe there may be more opportunities to improve services and/or reduce costs.