There are 4 candidates running for 3 seats on the District 219 Board of Education. Eric Brown declined our questionnaire, saying our organization is "partisan" and the office is not. 

 "It is important to look for partnerships that increase students’ ability to access food, healthcare and shelter assistance which would contribute to increased attendance, a factor that is directly correlated with a students’ sense of belonging as well as academic and emotional growth.   It is essential to create safe spaces where students can express their concerns—whether through conversations with social workers, psychologists, or staff, or within student-led clubs designed for them. Ensuring that students feel heard, supported, and safe at school must be a priority."

What principles or values do you think are essential for the position you are running for?

"As a school board member, I will be thoughtful and deliberate in shaping policies that align with the district’s vision and all those it seeks to represent. I believe in actively listening to stakeholders, respecting diverse perspectives, and making informed, data-driven decisions. This includes hearing the concerns of teachers, staff, students, parents and members of the community as I approach decisions on the board. I am committed to working with the board and our community to put forth what’s best for District 219. Lastly, I recognize that my words and actions impact the integrity and reputation of the district, and I am committed to serving with professionalism and accountability."

What experience or qualifications make you the right person to hold this position?

"I have been a pediatrician for twenty years which has made the overall well-being of children central to my life’s work.  Being a passionate advocate for the welfare of children will translate to being a fierce advocate for all students regardless of background.  I am head of the pediatric infectious diseases department at my place of employment where I have a track record of producing data-driven protocols to protect our community’s children from life-threatening outbreaks.  My profession has helped me remain flexible, able to pivot to where my skills are needed most, while remaining highly organized to complete my daily tasks.

My job has given me firsthand insight into the many factors that influence a student's ability to thrive—family life, school environment, social media, the news, and the world around them. Every day, I dedicate my time to improving the lives of children, carefully analyzing data to weigh risks and benefits when making decisions about their care. While my approach is rooted in science, I also understand that each child is a unique individual, and their social and emotional well-being plays a crucial role in their success. I will bring this same thoughtful, well-rounded perspective to my role on the school board.

On a volunteer level, I have worked in the medical NGO space for a decade being on the board of two internationally recognized medical boards both of which have earned Charity Navigator’s highest commendation for transparent and efficient use of funds.  The skills acquired working in these spaces have taught me team-building, effective communication, transparency and negotiation skills as well as the most resourceful ways to use our funding."

What is your stance on recent efforts to ban books with racial, sexual, and gender diversity from libraries and classrooms? 

"I firmly believe in trusting librarians and the head of curriculum at District 219 and their expertise in curating a diverse and enriching collection of books. I am opposed to banning books because our role in raising young adults is to equip them with critical thinking skills to discern what they find valuable or challenging. Students benefit from access to literature that reflects the vast diversity of human experiences, fostering empathy and broadening their understanding of perspectives different from their own."

How would you defend your district against efforts to defund public schools? 

"District 219 is well funded and our predecessors have left the district in a good position.  That being said, it is important to remain fiscally responsible and transparent with the funding available.  Strategies to protect against defunding include showcasing the positive impact of public education on students and the community and then taking the lead on contacting our local, state and federal officials to lobby for the support of our institutions.   It is also important to demonstrate where the funds would be needed and used. It would also be important to partner with other districts to advocate for statewide funding initiatives."

What principles or values do you think are essential for the position you are running for?

"1. Equity – Fair access to quality education.

2. Students First – Prioritizing their success and well-being.

3. Accountability – Transparency and responsible leadership.

4. Community Voice – Engaging students, parents, and staff.

5. Excellence – Strong academics and teacher support.

6. Adaptability – Addressing new challenges.

7. Integrity – Fairness, respect, and open dialogue."

What experience or qualifications make you the right person to hold this position?

"I am currently district 69 school board vice president and have learned so much serving from teacher contracts to dealing with issues. We have had lots of training as well as trial by fire. I an Also a sr price analyst and so I have An eye for budgeting and finances as well as looking for details. I am Niles west alum and currently live in Morton grove so Igrew up in this community."

What is your stance on recent efforts to ban books with racial, sexual, and gender diversity from libraries and classrooms? 

"Do not support banning book. I think People should have the option to choose what they read. Knowledge is power."

What is your stance on recent efforts to ban books with racial, sexual, and gender diversity from libraries and classrooms? 

"Do not support banning book. I think People should have the option to choose what they read. Knowledge is power."

How would you defend your district against efforts to defund public schools? 

"This would need to be strategic and well planned. Also would take a lot of help from lots of people.

 1. Advocate – Rally parents, teachers, and the community.

2. Show Impact – Use data and success stories.

3. Engage Leaders – Work with lawmakers to protect funding.

4. Build Support – Partner with local businesses and groups.

5. Fight Misinformation – Correct false narratives.

6. Be Transparent – Show responsible spending.

7. Take Action – Encourage public involvement."

What principles or values do you think are essential for the position you are running for?

"I believe that a school board member must keep their eyes and ears open at all times.  It is imperative to listen to all members of the community, take all opinions, passions, and facts under consideration, and then work together as a unit to make the most informed decisions possible. "

What experience or qualifications make you the right person to hold this position?

"I am a small business owner of My Gym Children's Fitness Center in Skokie and River Forest, and have lived in Morton Grove for 16 years.  Recently, I went back to school and received my Masters in the Science of Nursing, and am now an oncology nurse at Lutheran General, with a plan to transition to pediatric oncology.  

I was elected to and have served on the Skokie-Morton Grove School District 69 Board of Education since 2021. I am proud of the strides we have made in this district and know that I was an integral part of pushing for more antiracism training for staff and LGBTQ inclusivity at all three district schools.  I have also served on the My Gym Children’s Fitness Center Franchisee Advisory Board for 6 years and the Ethiopian American Kids Community Board for 4 years.

I am passionate about equal opportunity and access for all children.  I have dedicated my life to helping kids, whether it be in My Gym teaching physical fitness and encouraging social development, at home with my two kids, serving on boards, or in my pursuit of pediatric nursing. "

What is your stance on recent efforts to ban books with racial, sexual, and gender diversity from libraries and classrooms? 

"I would read the book and their request to remove a book. I believe all books should be accessible and can be avoided if that student does not want to read it. I would voice that opinion and then discuss why this book is a value to our classrooms/libraries after having spoken with teachers and librarians."

How would you defend your district against efforts to defund public schools? 

"I would relentlessly educate the community and public that defunding our public schools disproportionately affects marginalized communities and that public schools are an investment in our future work force.  It has been shown that when schools close, towns die off.  Well funded public education cuts down on long term societal costs and closes the gap between privileged and underprivileged, making success exorbitantly more equitable.  If the state and/or federal government tries to do this, we will need to tirelessly engage our elected officials at that level. "