Christopher Carlsen: 2025 candidate for Wauconda Unit District 118 board
Bio
Office sought: Wauconda Unit District 118 board (Vote for 4)
City: Wauconda Township
Age: 46
Occupation: Director of public works and water
Previous offices held: Trustee, Director of Chamber of Commerce
Why are you running for this office? Is there a particular issue that motivates you?
We have four children who have been, are or will be attending District 118 schools. I strongly believe as a parent we have a responsibility to be involved in all aspects of our children’s physical, educational, and spiritual growth.
What is the role of the school board in setting and monitoring the curriculum?
As a school board member, my role would be to develop curriculum standards, approved curriculum framework, select instructional material. The board would then need to evaluate curriculum effectiveness, conduct curriculum reviews, address, parent and community concerns.
Are there curriculum issues within the district that you feel need particular attention from the board?
I believe there is room for improvement in all of our curriculum.
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?
Provide leadership, even if unpopular.
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 style to reach an agreement and manage school district policy would be to study the policy, ask stakeholders to provide their opinion of policy, listen to all other board members’ opinion of policy. Then make a decision.
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.
I believe the district is currently doing a good job. I would support the effort to treat all students equally.
What makes you the best candidate for the job?
I believe my work ethic dedication and experience make me the best candidate.
What’s one good idea you have to better your district that no one is talking about yet?
Increase the district’s efforts to recognize and celebrate student success, be it in performing arts, academically, athletically and/or in community involvement.