Dornetria Hemphill: 2025 candidate for Central Unit District 301 board
Bio
Office sought: Central Unit District 301 board (Vote for 3)
City: Elgin
Age: 44
Occupation: Director of global benefits
Previous offices held: President of the District 301 board and president of District 301 Central Education Foundation
Why are you running for this office? Is there a particular issue that motivates you?
I am running for the school board because I am deeply committed to the success of our students, the well-being of our educators, and the overall strength of our school district.
As an active member of the community and a parent, I believe in fostering an inclusive, transparent, and collaborative approach to decision-making — one that prioritizes the needs of students while supporting our teachers and staff.
A key motivation for my candidacy is ensuring that our schools provide the highest quality education possible by focusing on student achievement, responsible financial stewardship, and open communication between the board, administration, teachers, parents, and the broader community. I want to help create an environment where all students have access to the resources they need to succeed, and where educators feel valued and supported.
This is a pivotal time for our district, and I believe my current school board experience, leadership, and passion for education can contribute to positive, forward-thinking solutions that will benefit our students today and in the future.
What is the role of the school board in setting and monitoring the curriculum?
The school board plays a crucial oversight role in setting and monitoring the curriculum to ensure it aligns with state standards, meets the needs of students, and prepares them for future success.
While the development and implementation of curriculum are primarily led by administrators, curriculum directors, and teachers, the board is responsible for reviewing, approving, and ensuring accountability in the curriculum process.
One of the board’s key responsibilities is ensuring that the curriculum complies with Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) guidelines, as well as any applicable federal requirements.
Additionally, the board reviews and approves significant curriculum changes, new program implementations, and instructional materials to maintain academic rigor and relevance. Monitoring student achievement data, district-wide academic goals, and curriculum effectiveness is essential to ensuring the best possible outcomes for all students.
Beyond oversight, the board fosters transparency and communication by engaging with parents, teachers, and community members regarding curriculum concerns or recommendations.
Are there curriculum issues within the district that you feel need particular attention from the board?
As a current school board member, it is essential to ensure that our curriculum remains rigorous, relevant, and aligned with state standards while also meeting the diverse needs of our students. One area that requires particular attention is ensuring that our curriculum prepares students for both college and/or career readiness, equipping them with the critical thinking, problem-solving, and real-world skills needed for success after graduation.
Additionally, it is important to regularly review and assess how well our curriculum supports student achievement and equity. We must ensure that all students — regardless of background, learning style, or ability — have access to high-quality educational opportunities.
This includes evaluating intervention programs for struggling students, expanding advanced coursework, and ensuring that curriculum materials reflect diverse perspectives.
By continuously reviewing and refining our curriculum, we can ensure that it provides students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed while fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
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?
As a current school board member, my role in addressing policy or curriculum controversies is to provide thoughtful leadership, ensure transparency, and give a voice to all constituents, even those with whom I may personally disagree.
Education is a deeply personal and sometimes contentious issue, and it is crucial to approach these challenges with an open mind, a commitment to facts, and a focus on what is best for students.
I believe that leadership means making informed decisions that prioritize the well-being and success of our students, even if those decisions are not always popular.
At the same time, it is essential to engage with the community, listen to diverse perspectives, and foster respectful dialogue. The board must create a space where parents, teachers, and stakeholders feel heard and valued, ensuring that all voices contribute to a well-rounded discussion.
Ultimately, my approach is to lead with integrity, prioritize student success, and work collaboratively to find solutions that uphold the district’s educational mission while respecting the diverse viewpoints within our community.
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.
I have extensive experience working in group settings to determine policy, both in my professional career and through my service on the school board.
Effective policymaking requires collaboration, active listening, and a focus on shared goals, particularly when making decisions that impact students, teachers, and the broader school community.
My style in a group setting is to facilitate open and respectful dialogue, encourage diverse perspectives, and build consensus wherever possible. I believe in data-driven decision-making — gathering relevant information, reviewing best practices, and ensuring that all stakeholders have a voice in the discussion.
At the same time, I recognize the importance of balancing differing viewpoints with the need to make timely and effective decisions that best serve our students and schools.
This approach is effective in producing strong school board actions and decisions because it ensures that policies are well-informed, thoughtfully debated, and grounded in the best interests of students.
What is your assessment of the school district's diversity and equity efforts? Do you support the continuation or enhancement of such programs, or would you rather see them diminished. Please explain your reasoning.
Our district has made meaningful progress in diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, ensuring that all students have access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed.
While these efforts have been valuable, there is always room for improvement to ensure that every student feels valued, supported, and prepared for their future. I fully support the continuation and thoughtful expansion of these initiatives, particularly in areas that directly impact student success.
This includes closing achievement gaps, expanding access to advanced coursework and extracurricular activities, and fostering a learning environment where every student can excel.
A key part of this commitment is promoting fair treatment and full participation for all individuals, particularly those who have historically been underrepresented or faced discrimination based on identity or disability.
Removing barriers to success is essential to ensuring that every student has the tools and support they need to reach their full potential. By upholding our district’s commitment to equity, inclusion, and academic excellence, we can build a stronger, more supportive school community for all students.
What makes you the best candidate for the job?
I am the best school board candidate because of my proven leadership, deep commitment to our schools, and dedication to student success. As an active member of the school board and an engaged member of our community, I have worked closely with teachers, administrators, parents, and students to support policies that strengthen our district.
My experience in collaborative decision-making, budget oversight, and policy development ensures that I can help guide our schools effectively.
I bring a balanced and transparent approach to leadership, listening to diverse perspectives and working to find solutions that serve all students.
I am committed to equity, academic excellence, and ensuring our schools provide the best opportunities for every child.
My current role on the board has provided me with a deep understanding of the challenges facing our district, and I have developed the skills necessary to address them with thoughtful consideration and effective action.
By focusing on student achievement, fiscal responsibility, and strong community partnerships, I will continue working to make our district a place where every student thrives.
What’s one good idea you have to better your district that no one is talking about yet?
One idea I believe could significantly benefit our district, and one that may not be fully discussed yet, is the creation of a district-wide mentorship program that connects students with professionals, alumni, and community leaders.
This program would offer students real-world insights into various careers, foster personal and professional growth, and help bridge the gap between education and the workforce.
By pairing students with mentors who can provide guidance, career exploration, and networking opportunities, we not only prepare them for future success but also build stronger ties between the school district and the broader community. This initiative could complement existing academic and extracurricular programs by offering students a support system that extends beyond the classroom and empowers them to make informed decisions about their future.
Proactively involving community members and professionals in the educational process can enrich our students’ experiences and ensure they are well-prepared for life after graduation.