Thomas Lentz: 2023 candidate for St. Charles Unit District 303 board, 2-year term

Bio

Town: South Elgin

Age on Election Day: 40

Occupation: Consultant

Employer: Capgemini

Previous offices held: D303 Citizens Advisory Committee, Executive Member

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: I'm seeking election for the first time. I am running for a seat on the D303 school board because I am deeply invested in the academic and fiscal success of our district. As a parent with three young children in the district, I want to ensure that they receive the best possible education.

I believe that our district is at a critical juncture, and I want to be a part of shaping its future direction. I am particularly concerned about the decline in scores and uneven enrollment levels across our schools, as well as the need to modernize facilities and expand educational opportunities.

I believe that the school board should be a unifying force for our community and that we need leaders with courage and empathy to serve on it. I believe that my professional background and volunteer experience make me well-suited for this role and I look forward to the opportunity to serve.

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

A: I believe that the role of the school board in setting and monitoring curriculum is crucial in ensuring the success of our students and the district as a whole. The board is responsible for setting the direction for the district by outlining the goals and objectives for the superintendent and staff to work toward.

It is also our duty to monitor the progress of the district and assess how the curriculum is impacting our students and the overall goals of the district.

Furthermore, it's important to have transparency with the parents and community on the curriculum and its progress.

As a school board member, I would prioritize open communication and engagement with parents and community members to ensure that they have a clear understanding of the curriculum and its goals, as well as the progress being made toward achieving those goals.

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

A: I am particularly concerned about English language arts and mathematics achievement in the district. These are foundational subjects that are crucial for students' success in all other areas of their education and in their future careers.

I believe that the board should take a close look at the curriculum and instruction in these subjects to ensure that they are rigorous, up-to-date, and aligned with state and national standards.

Additionally, I would advocate for the use of data and research to guide our decision-making in these areas, and to monitor student progress and teacher effectiveness. I believe that the school board should work closely with parents, teachers and administrators to ensure that the community is aware of the progress and challenges in these areas and to ensure transparency.

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: As a candidate actively engaged with the needs of my community, I believe it is essential to understand the concerns of my constituents by actively canvassing and engaging stakeholders across the district. I also believe that it is up to our community to decide how we want to teach and raise our children.

In confronting policy or curriculum controversies, my role would be to provide leadership, give a voice to all constituents and work to find common ground and a solution that benefits all students in the district.

I would also consider the guidance and expertise of state authorities, but ultimately, the needs and priorities of our community should guide our decisions.

Transparency and open communication with all stakeholders is crucial in navigating any controversies that may arise.

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: We learned a lot from how the last pandemic was handled, especially what not to do. The well-being and development of our students must always be our top priority. One thing we learned was the importance of in-person learning and how impactful that is on our children.

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: My professional background as an information technology and management consultant has provided me with valuable experience in working with diverse groups of stakeholders to gain consensus and redesign complex systems.

Additionally, my volunteer work on the Citizens Advisory Committee, where I served on the Executive Committee, has given me an in-depth understanding of the district's inner workings and the community's concerns.

The well-being and development of our students must always be our top priority. I believe that my experience in working in group settings, my ability to collaborate and gain consensus, and my understanding of the district and community's needs, will be effective in leading the school board in making effective decisions that will positively impact our students. I understand that it is crucial to collaborate with my fellow board members and district staff in order to make informed decisions that are in the best interest of our students.

Q: What makes you the best candidate for the job?

A: I believe I am the best fit for the job because of my unique blend of professional experience, personal investment in the success of the district, and commitment to active engagement with the community.

My experience managing complex programs and budgets, as well as my role as a parent with children currently attending the district, gives me the necessary skills and perspective to effectively serve on the school board.

Additionally, my willingness to listen and engage with the community ensures that their voices and concerns will be heard and incorporated into decision-making.

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

A: I have a number of ideas for the district, from curriculum to professional development to expanded vocational and trade studies.

One idea that I believe could greatly benefit D303 is the implementation of a comprehensive mentorship program for students.

This program would pair students with individuals in their desired career field, allowing them to gain valuable insights and skills while also building connections in their chosen industry.

This program would provide students with the opportunity to explore different career paths, gain hands-on experience, and develop a professional network before even graduating high school.

Additionally, this program would also provide an opportunity for community members to give back and invest in the future of our district by serving as mentors.