Donahue, Fosdick, Taylor-Demming and Jain are endorsed for Indian Prairie D204
A strong list of candidates seek voter approval for the Indian Prairie Community Unit School District 204 board of education on April 1. Five candidates seek the four open four-year-term seats. Incumbents Laurie Donahue, Allison Fosdick, Susan Taylor-Demming, Supna Jain face newcomer Allison Albert.
Many challenges await the new board including overseeing school improvements. Voters last fall approved the district’s request to borrow $420 million dollars for the work. Fallout from a possible elimination of the Department of Education and balancing cell phone policy are hot topics. All agree that cell phones are a distraction, but also a learning tool.
The incumbents agree the multi-year process and complex work educating the community on the master plan paid off with a passed referendum. Albert says the project details look good.
Federal efforts to dissolve the Department of Education has the candidates on their toes. All are concerned over the possible loss of 3% federal funding. Donahue says the protection of civil rights and universal testing standards, which the department oversees, needs to stay put. Fosdick says it’s being monitored, but the district needs to continue serving all students well. Taylor-Demming pledges to keep the interests of all students in place. Jain is confident the funds will there for students’ needs. Albert says elimination of the federal department could have an unimaginable impact on students, especially in the area of civil rights protection.
In 2026, the board will set the parameters for teacher’s union contract negotiations. The candidates are confident current strong relationships and communications efforts will help the process. Mindfulness of the budget is also key.
Albert offers fresh ideas and insights, but considering the demands of implementing the referendum amid contract talks and potential federal funding uncertainties, the four incumbents are best positioned to manage things over the next four years. Laurie Donahue, Allison Fosdick, Susan Taylor-Demming, Supna Jain are endorsed.