Tammie Murphy: 2025 candidate for West Chicago High School District 94 board

Bio

Office sought: West Chicago High School District 94 board (Vote for 4)

City: West Chicago

Age: 62

Occupation: Certified school nurse/RN

Previous offices held: District 94 school board

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

I have been a professional in the education system for more than 20 years as an registered nurse and have been running health services in school districts for many years. Through that time, I have been an advocate for children and learned to collaborate effectively with staff, students and their families. I feel I have many strengths and can bring a fresh approach to District 94 in advocating for all students. One particular important interest is working to ensure students with special needs are given a superior and fair education.

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

Any school board must oversee all operations of the district to ensure an excellent and appropriate education for students. Most importantly, curriculum must continue to adapt with changing technology. As a high school district prepares students for their future, the curriculum must adjust to their personal and individual needs.

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

District curriculum is an ever evolving entity that must be continuously monitored. District 94 has a history of doing a great job on curriculum but there is always room for improvement in preparing students for a lifetime of success beyond reading and math.

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 proven myself as a leader within my career and can handle conflict in a professional manner. I am able to listen and reflect fairly during controversy.

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 was on the District 94 board several years ago and chose to leave in order to further my career in education. During that time, I worked closely with other board members and administration on policies/procedures. I have extensive experience working on a school board, managing a large group of health services staff and most recently, a staff of nurses at a smaller school district.

Appropriate policies and procedures provide clarity and safety in the schools, as well as reducing liability but improving accountability.

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.

The strength of District 94 and our community is the diversity of not only the student body, but the staff and administration as well. I applaud efforts to reasonably continue programs that enhance diversity and equity in the school environment.

What makes you the best candidate for the job?

I have past experience on the District 94 school board, advocating for students and working closely with families. I am hard working, dedicated and understand the education system while realizing fiscal responsibility. I am diligent and determined to keep our students’ best interests in mind.

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

I would like to take a deeper look into improved safety, health and wellness procedures for students and staff. This includes dynamics for physical and mental health.