Dana Jaime: 2025 candidate for Maine Township High School District 207 board

Bio

Office sought: Maine Township High School District 207 board (Vote for 4)

City: Des Plaines

Age: 48

Occupation: Director of client impact

Previous offices held: N/A

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

I like being involved in my community and the schools that my children attend. I want to give a voice to the community (families, students, and teachers/staff). My parents were involved with the school board, PTA, my sister is a high school teacher, and my children. That’s what motivates me.

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

The board relies on district leadership to figure out how a specific type of curriculum would be integrated into our schools. We would look at the data to see how well things are working in each school. The board would be a part of the process from the beginning, ensuring it aligns with district goals and community values.

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

At this time, nothing stands out to me. The curriculum seems to be in a good place, but I would be interested in getting feedback from others if there are areas they think need attention.

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 would look to the leaders of the buildings to share information when decisions need to be made. As a parent of a child in Maine West, I’m always talking with them and their friends/peers. And I would build on my relationships throughout each school community to get feedback. In order to “confront” an issue, we need to listen, talk and understand each other.

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.

My role in analytics allows me to evaluate both sides of a situation and see multiple perspectives, which is valuable when making decisions for each school.

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.

As a candidate for District 207 and parent in the district, there are great “supports” already happening in each school. I will be an advocate for underrepresented populations and build off current programs/groups.

What makes you the best candidate for the job?

Being a resident of Des Plaines and a parent of a District 207 student, my perspective represents many parents and taxpayers. I am bringing my experience in having served on various committees for District 62 and the PTSO. This service gave me perspective on the challenges that school districts face.

If elected, I come in wanting to learn more. I want to listen, talk and understand who I am serving.

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

I would like to see collaboration between the school newspapers. I only get the chance to read the Westerner (Maine West student newspaper) and it would be great to read an article about what the other schools are up to. Student journalists can partner with ideas. This can help spread the wonderful things that are happening in our schools to all students and families.