Paul A. Troy: 2025 candidate for Huntley Unit District 158 board
Bio
Office Sought: Huntley Unit District 158 board (Vote for 4)
City: Lake in the Hills
Age: 56
Occupation: Semi-retired — substitute teacher
Previous offices held: 16 years on District 158 board
Why are you running for this office? Is there a particular issue that motivates you?
As a proud incumbent with a fiscally prudent track record and strong ethics, I believe there’s still work to be done for our Destination District. I’m committed to providing every student with top educational opportunities in a safe, supportive 21st-century learning environment. Our duty is to prepare them for adulthood by fostering exploration and growth and I appreciate the staff that work tirelessly for our students. I genuinely enjoy my work and I am seeking my fifth term on the board.
What is the role of the school board in setting and monitoring the curriculum?
For the most part, the board’s role consists of monitoring, questioning and approval. The heavy lifting is done by a large team of education professionals who extensively review curricula for alignment with the Illinois learning standards before making a recommendation to the board for approval. Recommended curriculums must be available for public viewing for 30 days before the board can vote to approve.
Are there curriculum issues within the district that you feel need particular attention from the board?
Several Northern Illinois high schools have expanded facilities and programs for trade careers. District 158 should explore potential new pathway offerings with the help of community partnerships. At the elementary level, the district must continually enhance reading and math curricula to strengthen foundational skills for future growth and to close achievement gaps.
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?
The board’s role in confronting policy or curriculum controversies is a careful balance of all approaches mentioned. When a controversial policy or curriculum matter arises, each situation is unique and requires a measured, level-headed approach that fits the situation. My role is to lead even if unpopular, listen to and talk with constituents, and follow state statutes, then respect the board’s consensus.
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.
As a 16-year board veteran, I have worked extensively in this group setting in determining policy. My style is to listen to all perspectives then seek consensus among the seven members as one voice. That is the only way for the board to function effectively, since no single person has the individual authority to make decisions.
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.
The district’s equity and diversity efforts align with its “All students always” motto, ensuring all students have the support and opportunities to succeed. While the district celebrates diversity, there aren’t enough days to recognize every group individually. I fully support continuing and, where beneficial, enhancing programs that foster learning about others and ensure equitable academic opportunities for all students.
What makes you the best candidate for the job?
With 16 years on the board, I bring unmatched experience in labor negotiations, school finance, policy, operations, and facilities. I’ve built many strong, respectful relationships with community stakeholders and take pride in having helped District 158 become a top choice destination for families. My integrity, character, servant leadership, and background in engineering and finance make me the best candidate for the job.
What’s one good idea you have to better your district that no one is talking about yet?
I want to restart discussions with McHenry County, the road district responsible for roads leading to the Harmony Road campus, to address traffic bottlenecks near the Harmony Road campus. Persistent congestion and accidents for many years at key intersections have affected commutes to Huntley High School and Leggee Elementary. It's time to find a long-term solution to an ongoing problem.