Kimberly Miller: 2025 candidate for Wauconda Unit District 118 board

Bio

Office sought: Wauconda Unit District 118 board (Vote for 4)

City: Island Lake

Age: 40

Occupation: Special education teacher

Previous offices held: Current District 118 board member

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

I am running for reelection because I am passionate about continually improving our district while ensuring we remain fiscally responsible. As a special-education teacher and a parent of children with varying educational needs, I understand firsthand the importance of supporting all students and making sure they have the resources they need to succeed.

I am also deeply committed to supporting our incredible staff and empowering them with the tools, professional development, and support necessary to help our students thrive. A strong district starts with strong educators, and I want to continue advocating for policies that attract and retain high-quality teachers.

Our district has made great strides, but there is always more work to be done. I want to continue building on our successes while making thoughtful, responsible decisions that benefit our students, staff, and community.

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

The role of the school board in setting and monitoring the curriculum is to provide oversight and ensure that the district’s educational programs align with state standards and the needs of our students. We are proud of our administration and recognize that they are the experts in curriculum development.

As a board, we support the district teams — comprised of teachers and administrators — who lead discussions on curriculum adoption and implementation. Our responsibility is to ask thoughtful questions, review recommendations, and ensure that curriculum decisions are made in the best interest of all students while reflecting the values and priorities of our community.

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

Math has been a consistent area of focus in our district for years. However, with the adoption of our new curriculum, we have seen significant improvements, leading to some of the highest math scores in several elementary and middle-grade levels.

While we are proud of this progress, it’s important for the board to continue monitoring student achievement, supporting teachers with the necessary resources and professional development, and ensuring that all students have access to high-quality instruction that prepares them for future success. It will become important to continue this momentum in all academic areas.

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 believe the role of a school board member in confronting policy or curriculum controversies requires a balanced approach that includes all three aspects. Providing leadership, even when a decision may be unpopular, is essential to maintaining the integrity of our schools and ensuring that policies are in the best interest of all students.

At the same time, it is crucial to give a voice to all constituents, including those with whom I may personally disagree, as open dialogue strengthens our district and builds community trust.

Additionally, we must recognize the role of state authorities in setting educational standards and ensure that our district remains in compliance while advocating for what is best for our students and staff. My goal is to listen, engage in thoughtful discussion, and make informed decisions that support student success while reflecting our community’s values.

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 had the privilege of serving on the school board for the past four years, during which I have learned a great deal from our administration and incredible leaders like Carey McHugh and Vincent Torossy.

This experience has given me valuable insight into the policy-making process and the importance of collaboration in making informed decisions that benefit our students, staff, and community.

In addition, my 14 years as a teacher have given me firsthand experience working within teams to problem-solve while adhering to policies that guide our schools. I understand the importance of balancing structure with flexibility to meet the needs of students and staff effectively.

My approach to reaching agreements and managing district policy is rooted in active listening, thoughtful discussion, and data-driven decision-making. I believe in working collaboratively to find solutions that prioritize student success while being mindful of the needs of teachers, staff, and the community.

By fostering open communication and relying on the expertise of our district leaders, I am confident that we can continue making effective and meaningful decisions for our schools.

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.

Our district is committed to ensuring that all students have access to a high-quality education and the resources they need to succeed. Diversity and equity efforts play a role in creating an inclusive learning environment where every student feels valued and supported.

As a board member, I believe it is important to regularly assess these efforts to ensure they are effective and aligned with the needs of our students and community.

This includes reviewing data, listening to stakeholders, and making thoughtful, informed decisions that prioritize student success. I support programs that foster a positive, welcoming environment and help all students reach their full potential. At the same time, I believe in fiscal responsibility and ensuring that any initiatives are implemented effectively and with clear goals in mind.

Ultimately, my focus is on supporting policies and programs that enhance student achievement, strengthen our schools, and reflect the values of our community.

What makes you the best candidate for the job?

I believe I am the best candidate for this role because I bring a unique combination of professional experience, community involvement, and a deep personal commitment to our schools.

As a special-education teacher, I understand the challenges and opportunities within our education system and the importance of meeting the diverse needs of all students. As a parent of children with varying educational needs, I have firsthand experience navigating the school system from multiple perspectives, which allows me to advocate effectively for families and students.

Beyond my work in education, I am dedicated to giving back to our community. Through my service on the school board, as a member of the Lions Club, and through my involvement with the Wauconda Soccer Club, I have built strong relationships and a deep understanding of the values and priorities of our district.

Most importantly, I believe in listening to understand — not just to respond. I value open, respectful conversations with parents, educators, and community members, and I am committed to making thoughtful, informed decisions that support student success, empower teachers, and strengthen our schools.

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

One of the most exciting developments in our district is the rollout of full-day kindergarten next year — a huge win for our youngest learners and their families! I’m incredibly proud of this initiative and the work that has gone into making it a reality. I have been a huge advocate for this as an early childhood teacher and a parent of a kindergartner myself.

Now, we have the opportunity to build on that momentum using our strategic plan to ensure continued growth and success across all grade levels.

One idea that isn’t being talked about enough is strengthening early intervention and support services to make sure every child enters first grade with a strong foundation. By enhancing access to targeted support — such as literacy interventions and social-emotional learning opportunities — we can maximize the impact of full-day kindergarten and set students up for long-term success.

This approach aligns with our district’s strategic goals and ensures that we’re not just expanding time in the classroom, but truly enhancing the quality of learning for every student.