Maureen Hartwig: 2025 candidate for Maine Township High School District 207 board

Bio

Office sought: Maine Township High School District 207 board (Vote for 4)

City: Park Ridge

Age: 47

Occupation: Development coordinator

Previous offices held: Park Ridge 2nd Ward Alderperson

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

As a former Park Ridge Alderperson, D64 PTA/O President at the elementary and middle school and an engaged Maine East parent and D207 alum, I am committed to helping strengthen our schools.

I was motivated to run when I learned that over the years, individuals from the Maine East boundaries have been underrepresented on the board. A school board is stronger and better balanced with representation from all three school boundaries.

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

The school board approves curriculum that align with district goals and educational standards, based on recommendations from administrators, educators and evidence-based analysis. School boards evaluate implemented curriculum by reviewing student performance data, gathering feedback, receiving updates from administrators on implementation and making adjustments as necessary.

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

The district has innovated and introduced several changes in recent years, like standards-based grading and de-tracking math and English. With a new superintendent in place, it's a good time to evaluate these changes. It’s crucial the district has clear metrics in place to evaluate these initiatives, ensure they are truly benefiting all students, and make sure our staff has the support they need to implement them effectively.

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?

When handling a district controversy, it is important to listen and also direct concerns to the most appropriate person in the district. I would be willing to publicly support issues, even if unpopular. However, I would be mindful of my role on the board. As an individual board member, I do not have the authority to act or speak on behalf of the board.

On a collective basis, the school board should prioritize open communication, thorough investigation, community engagement, and transparent decision-making, aiming to address concerns while maintaining public trust and minimizing further division within the district.

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.

When serving on the PTO, as alderman and in career settings, I have experience working in group settings to make decisions. I like to do my research, come prepared to meetings by learning and asking questions of relevant stakeholders. I hope to build trust with fellow board members.

While we may not always agree in public and in private, I am committed to communicating, engaging in collaborative processes, seeking out opposing viewpoints and acknowledging differences are all important parts in the decision-making process.

Additionally, I would adhere to the Board Member Collaboration and Engagement criteria detailed in adopted board guidelines.

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.

District 207 has an incredible amount of economic and cultural diversity among its student population. I would like to better understand the district’s initiatives and efforts to support every student. As stated on the district's website, “Equity is about fairness, justice and individuals getting what they need and deserve in order to reach their full potential.”

Embracing diverse experiences not only enriches our community but also fosters a more inclusive and supportive educational environment for students to reach their full potential.

What makes you the best candidate for the job?

My experience. I bring a willingness to listen and collaborate, to be curious, to learn, to evolve on issues when needed, and to make decisions based on data — not just assumptions.

Community experience:

• D207 Superintendent’s Community Advisory Council: 2023-present

• D64 Parent Advisory Panel: 2023-present

• Maine East Fine Arts Booster Board: 2024-present

• Illinois State Board of Education 2023 Community Volunteer Award

• PTO President of Emerson Middle School, Niles: 2022-24

• Park Ridge Second Ward Alderperson: 2019-21

• PTA President at Franklin School: 2015-18

• Park Ridge Liquor Review Board Member: 20-2019

• Organized Park Ridge Kidical Mass Bike Rides: 2018-20

• Led Citywide 2017 yard sign recycling effort

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

I mentioned earlier the importance of having a balanced board across all the school boundaries.

As a school board candidate, I am committed to being open-minded on various topics that come before the board.