Holly Joy Blastic: 2025 candidate for Naperville Unit District 203 board

Bio

Office sought: Naperville Unit District 203 board (Vote for 4)

City: Naperville

Age: 44

Occupation: Attorney

Previous offices held: Lisle Township PC

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

I have four children currently in District 203. They are in fourth, sixth, ninth, and 10th grades. I have a unique perspective on the span of district services and I want to ensure our youngest and future learners have the same (and better) educational opportunities as our older students and alumni.

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

The board provides direction and goals. We steer resources to meet curriculum needs. We review achievement and community/staff feedback to ensure the curriculum is meeting our goals. Our role is not to micromanage our educators. I view the board’s role as a collaboration with staff — we provide the framework and resources for educators to succeed in their classrooms.

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

When I was serving constituents in the district, I consistently heard parent concerns regarding our approach to reading, lack of phonics instruction, and difficulties meeting the needs of dyslexic students. Steps have been taken to address these needs. The board must monitor those changes and determine if more investment is needed.

We have also updated our science curriculum, especially in elementary school. I have seen new excitement and interest coming home from my younger learners. I would like to monitor those changes with an eye to how that may close the achievement gaps we see in later grades.

The proposed increase in junior high math time is something to watch closely as well. There is a demonstrated need for more instruction in grades six through eight.

Finally, I would like an evaluation of the transition to AP from honors courses in high schools. We are adjusting to meet a state standard, but many parents feel we are losing unique learning opportunities for eager learners. Assessing this transition is an important step that may assuage those fears or guide us in a new direction.

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?

First, I am an attorney. The law is the law, and we must follow it. That is not a matter of deference.

As a leader, I begin with collaboration. I seek to hear all sides and will weigh all viewpoints before making a decision. I have trained as a mediator. That taught me that issues rarely have defined winners and losers. There is often a way to shape policies to incorporate different needs.

I lead with transparent values — the safety and well-being of students and staff first, then achievement and long-term stability. With these as my touchstone, I am not afraid to make difficult choices.

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.

Directing policy and implementing it as a team is at the center of my professional work. I am known to approach my work with a democratic and coaching style. That means I acknowledge and respect the experience and expertise each member brings to the team. I work to foster trust and collaboration. I begin the work by recognizing where team goals align and build from that shared foundation.

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 wholeheartedly support our diversity and equity programs and want them to continue. Our curriculum and policies should reflect the diversity of our community, state, and country without a bias toward any one group or time period.

Inclusive education respects the dignity of all students. There is truth in the adage “you can’t be what you don’t see.” I experienced that in my own life. Our equity and diversity programs open windows of opportunities for all students.

What makes you the best candidate for the job?

My professional skills with policy and law are helpful, but my greatest asset is my role as a District 203 parent. I have students in three district levels — elementary, junior high, and high school. My oldest was in the first all-day kindergarten class in her school. My youngest started kindergarten on Zoom.

We are on year 11 in the district with almost nine more to go. My family is plugged in and adapting to district policies along with everyone other family. That span means I have a broad view of district services and a vested interest in our continued success.

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

Our responsibility as a community is to provide our students with the tools they need to thrive throughout their lives. That means our choices are based not on potential magazine rankings or other external accolades, but on meeting the needs of our student body.

Drafting policies to chase awards is shortsighted. I believe lasting success for our district comes from placing student needs first. When we set our primary focus on students, success will follow.