Laurie Christophersen: 2025 candidate for Emmons Elementary District 33 board
Bio
Office sought: Emmons Elementary District 33 board (Vote for 4)
City: Antioch
Age: 75
Occupation: Retired
Previous offices held: Emmons District 33 board member since 2009
Why are you running for this office? Is there a particular issue that motivates you?
I believe in public education and the governance a school board provides to a district.
What is the role of the school board in setting and monitoring the curriculum?
The board receives at a minimum annual report of student growth by the superintendent. Student performance is an excellent indicator of curriculum monitoring. If and or when there is a need for curriculum update or improvement the superintendent presents options to the board.
Are there curriculum issues within the district that you feel need particular attention from the board?
No
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?
Communication with community is an all-important role of a school board. Listening is an essential skill for a board member. Public participation during board meetings provide visitors the opportunity to voice their issues. Most matters are assigned to the superintendent for follow-up. Acknowledging the visitor participant demonstrates recognition and expresses appreciation to the individual for sharing their concern.
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.
Board members express their opinions while respecting others’ point of view. This leads a board to reach a consensus. Board members then support the majority vote of the board. This process demonstrates the importance of speaking with one clear voice to the superintendent and the community.
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.
A community guided by principles of equity and respect; where each student reaches their full potential. Emmons recently updated their visions and belief statements through a community-wide strategic plan which can be found on the district webpage. I support the strategic plan of 2025-27. Through this plan, students will thrive and grow.
What makes you the best candidate for the job?
I have been an Emmons school board member since 2009 and the president since 2016. I maintain the level of Distinguished Board Leader through the Illinois Association of School Boards.
In addition to my leadership qualities I have a long history of institutional knowledge.
Most important, I believe in public education. A school such as Emmons is the heart of our community. I have been a proud community member most of my life.
What’s one good idea you have to better your district that no one is talking about yet?
Renewable energy.