Katie Karam: 2025 candidate for Barrington Unit District 220 board

Bio

Office sought: Barrington Unit District 220 board (Vote for 4)

City: Barrington

Age: 48

Occupation: Stay-at-home mom

Previous offices held: District 220 board member since 2021

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

I am running for the board of education because this position has a steep learning curve, and I would like the opportunity to put to use what I have learned over the last four years and make a positive impact for our community.

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

Illinois learning standards are set at the state level through the Illinois State Board of Education. To ensure our district is in compliance with state standards we have a four-stage curriculum review process and timeline. This is a guideline for our district that is subject to change as new state policies and units of study from ISBE are mandated.

This process of research and plan, develop, implement, and monitor and refine is on a constant cycle timeline to ensure we are always up-to-date. Prior to the implement stage, a report is brought to the board where we can discuss and monitor proposed curriculum updates.

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

Our review process ensures that we are adopting the latest research-based, high-quality curriculum. This consistent review cycle allows us to evaluate and revise any curriculum issues as needed.

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 feel the purpose of a school board is to represent the voice of the community. The seven board members represent varying backgrounds and opinions. I feel my role is to represent those who put their faith in me by voting.

This does not mean controversial votes will always go my way. This does mean I have to be willing to listen to all opinions presented, remain civil, and work toward a compromise and the common goal of doing what is best for our students, our staff, and our community.

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.

The majority of our policies are set at the state level and/or through legal precedent. When policy changes are brought to the board table for a vote, we are able to discuss proposed changes and any issues we have with them.

My style has always been to articulate my thoughts and facilitate productive discussion. There have been times I have changed my opinion after listening to my fellow board members. There have also been times a vote has not gone my way. From there, it is my job to follow the will of the board and prepare to move on to the next issue.

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 board members, we rotate through our District Equity Team meetings. I have enjoyed getting regular updates on what our team has been working on at each of our schools.

Recently we heard from a student about the “Culture Walk Around” they had at their school. They emphasized how it is important for every student to feel welcome; the culture walk around was a way for each student to share their unique identities. If there was one aspect of our DEI efforts that I would like to focus on more, it would be on the approximately 18% of students who utilize student services and support.

What makes you the best candidate for the job?

I was born and raised in Barrington and am a proud Barrington High graduate. To say I have a vested interest in this community would be an understatement.

My family has always been very involved around the community and I understand the importance of volunteer efforts to help keep our district running. After a term on the board, I have the background knowledge necessary to help me be a more effective board member and better voice for the community.

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

This is something that has been talked about, but as a unit district we are in the unique position of transitioning students from elementary, to middle school, to high school.

As a parent, I know how difficult this can be for kids. This can be especially hard for students going from middle school to Barrington High School. I would love to better help students understand not only what to expect academically, but what they need to know for sports, activities, clubs, and social emotional issues as they advance through the district.