Elias Palacios: 2025 candidate for St. Charles Unit District 303 board
Bio
Office sought: St. Charles Unit District 303 board (Vote for 4)
City: Campton Hills
Age: 64
Occupation: Retired Senior Public Service Administrator for the state of Illinois
Previous offices held: None
Why are you running for this office? Is there a particular issue that motivates you?
I am running for the St. Charles Unit District 303 board because I believe that all students must be kept safe and must receive an excellent education. Also, property taxes to fund our schools need to be adequate. I will maintain a fair and independent voice for all taxpayers within the district and those who are underrepresented.
I believe that serving as a board member is an opportunity to contribute to the community that has given me so much over the last 19 years.
What is the role of the school board in setting and monitoring the curriculum?
The school board oversees the district’s curriculum by setting standards, approving changes, and ensuring it is relevant and inclusive, preparing students for the future.
Are there curriculum issues within the district that you feel need particular attention from the board?
Evaluating the effectiveness of the school’s bilingual education curriculum is essential. Also, ongoing assessments will help identify reasons for the limited improvements in test scores and students’ grade-point averages.
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 primary duty of a board member in policy or curriculum disputes is to prioritize students’ interests while considering the whole community, including parents and staff. Board members must ensure their proposals comply with legal regulations and be open to taxpayers’ and students’ feedback.
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 collaborated in various roles, including as president of a homeowner’s association, an executive team member of a union, a participant on a Hispanic advisory board for a legislator, and a Senior Public Service Administrator.
I prioritize listening and assessing situations in these positions, providing feedback and suggestions to address challenges. I apply nonviolent communication, focusing on observations, feelings, needs, and requests, creating a respectful and proactive environment for decision-making in my school board.
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.
Improvements are needed to support recent immigrants from Latin America, Eastern Europe, and other countries, particularly regarding language and culture. Hire more bilingual-bicultural teachers, counselors, school psychologists, and support staff.
What makes you the best candidate for the job?
As a committed parent in the St. Charles school district, I actively participate in my children's education because I recognize its importance. Collaboration is essential in these challenging times. I have the necessary qualifications and bring valuable skills from my education, work, and volunteer experiences, all of which will positively contribute to our school community.
What’s one good idea you have to better your district that no one is talking about yet?
Notify parents about their rights, including the option to exclude their child from activities that may not be suitable. Provide information on any restrictions and the forms parents/guardians must complete.