Lynn Ulrich: 2023 Candidate for Warren Township High School District 121 board member
Bio
Town: Gurnee
Age on Election Day: 60
Occupation: Nurse Anesthetist
Employer: N/A
Previous offices held: N/A
Q&A
Q: Why are you running for this office, whether for reelection or election the first time? Is there a particular issue that motivates you?
A: Since my daughter graduated from Warren High School in 2021 I have been very grateful for and impressed with her aptitude and ability to converse and debate critical issues that come before her. She has always been a very organized person but we owe a great deal of thanks to the numerous qualified teachers and curriculum that has helped guide her. Therefore now it really is time for me to get more involved, donate some of my time, knowlegde and abilities to ensure that what is wonderful at Warren not only remains but gets even better!
Q: What is the role of the school board in setting and monitoring curriculum?
A: The IL state board of education sets policies and guidelines for public schools, who in turn review the guidelines for curriculum, common core, etc. The board approves curriculum that will be implemented, and quality checks to determine if effective. A highly effective school board will have specific goals, a strategic plan, and actionable steps that are communicated to the staff level.
Q: Are there curriculum issues within the district that you feel need particular attention from the board?
A: I will be more aware of curriculum issues once I am a board member but would prefer to comment on how the development of curriculum should prepare students for graduation. Focus should be on language, mathematics, science, and other life skills that would prepare the student for working after high school or in preparation for college. The school board should be attentive to parents and teachers input, and decisions should not be made in a vacuum. They should work together to prepare a plan and monitor its success.
Q: 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?
A: My view of a school board member's role is to listen to parents, students, and teachers who are affected by policy and curriculum. I want to hear, respect, and represent all the voices and opinions so that all may be heard, especially amid controversy. I believe teachers, parents and students desire the best opportunities for learning and moving forward successfully. As a small business owner, manager, and parent, I possess the skills necessary to effect change and establish community by working together to prepare a plan and monitor its success.
Q: Concerns are growing regarding a new resurgence of the pandemic. If another massive outbreak of infectious disease occurs, what have we learned from the COVID-19 pandemic that will guide your decision making?
A: By listening and learning from multiple medical and scientific sources, I understand the impact of the student's mental health, physical safety and learning loss during the pandemic. I have been working in the medical field for over 42 years as an RN and CRNA, and have acquired knowledge of health safety, literacy, and in particular, airways. This medical knowledge, and my personal experience as a first responder during the COVID-19 pandemic, puts me in a unique position to work with others to make informed decisions. Keeping the community's overall health and wellbeing in mind, I will work hard with all parties to recommend actions that will ensure our community is being protected and supported, rooted in scientific and medical evidence.
Q: Describe your experience working in a group setting to determine policy. What is your style in such a setting to reach agreement and manage school district policy? Explain how you think that will be effective in producing effective actions and decisions of your school board.
A: While my experience does not include determining school policy per se I work in an operating room with several team members, who work together for the benefit of the patient. I would describe my style as collaborative, open, eager to come to an agreement, but willing to take the lead when necessary to prepare a plan and monitor its success.
Q: What makes you the best candidate for the job?
A: My view of a school board member's role is to listen to parents, students, and teachers who are affected by policy and curriculum. I want to hear, respect, and represent all the voices and opinions so that all may be heard, especially amid controversy. I believe teachers, parents and students desire the best opportunities for learning and moving forward successfully. As a small business owner, manager, and parent, I possess the skills necessary to effect change and establish community by working together to prepare a plan and monitor its success.
Q: What's one good idea you have to better your district that no one is talking about yet?
A: I don't think we need to reinvent the wheel here but I would like to see more focus in a couple of areas. With the exponential rise in childhood diabetes (possible deficiency in Vanadium, Chromium) and obesity it would benefit the students if health and nutritional classes would dive deeper into how minerals and vitamins effect protein synthesis while promoting enzymatic pathways effecting health. A strong body and mind are critical for learning and ultimate success of students at Warren. Also, I support building and expanding upon vocational training i.e.. carpentry, plumbing, electricians, home economics, farming, personal finance, investing, and so on. If our students are healthy, can build and repair engines and run small businesses, this would promote a sustainable local community.