Jammie Esker Schaer: 2023 Candidate for Elmhurst Unit District 205 School Board
Bio
Town: Elmhurst
Age on Election Day: 49
Occupation: part-time accountant
Employer: IDI
Previous offices held: none
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: To ensure that our students and teachers are the main priorities of any decisions faced by the board. Diminishing student achievement motivates me to run.
Q: What is the role of the school board in setting and monitoring curriculum?
A: The school board is a bridge between the administration and community.
Q: Are there curriculum issues within the district that you feel need particular attention from the board?
A: The middle school block schedule forces students to choose between band and other electives. Our music program has been affected by their choices.
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 role is to listen to both sides, educate myself on the issues and then find a balance.
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: Always look at the bigger picture.
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 style is to listen and wait before answering.
Q: What makes you the best candidate for the job?
A: I am an invested mother with 5 boys, having been in the district since 2007.
Q: What's one good idea you have to better your district that no one is talking about yet?
A: community conversations - for questions, complaints, and other remarks