Dave Williams: 2023 candidate for Addison Elementary District 4 board
Bio
Town: Addison
Age on Election Day: 73
Occupation: Retired
Employer:
Previous offices held: District 88 board (1989-93), Addison Elementary District 4 board since 1999
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 have a long-term commitment to the students of District 4 and to the entire Addison community. I have the time and desire to continue to improve student outcomes and their learning environment while working within our budget.
Q: What is the role of the school board in setting and monitoring curriculum?
A: The board has the responsibility to make sure that curriculum is compatible with the student population.
Q: Are there curriculum issues within the district that you feel need particular attention from the board?
A: There are no current issues but going forward there needs to be oversight making sure partisan views and/or inappropriate items are not included.
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: All meetings are live streamed and constituents are given the opportunity to address/question the board in person or via email. During recent controversies, the board has allowed extended input from the public.
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: Due to legal and financial considerations the board must abide by federal and state laws/guidelines. It became apparent during the pandemic that remote learning did not serve student needs. Technology improvements will be necessary if this occurs in the future.
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: The board policy committee works closely with the Illinois Association of School Boards to adjust policy. Any recommendations for policy changes are then brought before the entire board for discussion.
Q: What makes you the best candidate for the job?
A: I have the commitment and time available to work to offer the best education possible while balancing that with available resources.
Q: What's one good idea you have to better your district that no one is talking about yet?
A: Due to budget, facility and staffing constraints the needs of high achieving students are not being addressed. Creatively utilizing technology can improve this issue without a great amount of additional resources.