The District 219 Board of Education elections are approaching, with early voting having begun in Skokie on March 17 and election day itself falling on April 1. The Board shapes curriculum and determines the courses available to students. Understanding the candidates and their priorities can inform students, even those who can’t vote, about decisions affecting their high school experience. 

“I think it’s always interesting to see the ideas and beliefs of local government officials,” junior Ashley Weatherspoon said. “I remember one of my teachers saying all politics are local. The Board of Education forum is all about their deep held personal beliefs which is super cool. It was all new people which was both shocking and exciting.” 

North Star News has researched the four candidates running for D219’s Board of Education. Each candidate brings a unique background and set of priorities. 

Nour Akhras

Akhras is a mother and pediatrician with over 20 years of experience. She’s worked to support children affected by war and played an active role by educating communities during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as partnering with the White House.

Akhras has indicated a focus on inclusivity, particularly for students with disabilities. “My vision for ensuring students with disabilities are equitably included and supported is to look for opportunities for these students to participate in competitions that align with their skill sets, to allow them to participate in any STEM, sports or other extracurricular activities that they are inclined to participate in to ensure that the ADA best practices are followed throughout the facilities,” Akhras said.

Akhras has stated her commitment to professionalism and accountability while collaborating with others. 

“I believe in actively listening to stakeholders, respecting diverse perspectives, and making informed, data-driven decisions,” Akhras said. “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.”

Eric Brown

Brown, a parent of three children, one of whom attends D219, has a background in chemistry and artificial intelligence. He’s interested in overseeing the district finances, including reducing student costs without sacrificing any aspect of education.

“A pillar of my platform is Financial Responsibility and oversight,” Brown said. “I would ask the board to consider me for service on the Finance committee, where the budget is discussed in detail and put up for a vote by the full board, which hopefully carries unanimously.”

Brown has expressed a commitment to supporting extracurricular activities, which he finds vital for student’s personal and academic growth. 

“As board member, I will make support of extracurricular activities a high priority, which ensures that the students have the opportunity to take a deep dive into their passions,” Brown said. 

Kandice Cooley-Jones

Cooley-Jones currently serves as the Vice President of the District 69 Board of Education. She has experience in budgeting and strategic planning as a senior price analyst at a manufacturing company. Cooley-Jones has indicated a focus on creating a positive and inclusive environment, advocating both student success and teacher support. 

“As both a Niles West alum and parent of two children, one of whom attends Niles West, I understand firsthand the needs and challenges faced by students, parents, and teachers,” Cooley-Jones said. “I am committed to advocating for academic excellence…equity and inclusion.. teacher support…[and] community engagement.

Cooley-Jones has proposed plans to ensure services are accessible to the district’s communities. She has outlined strategies to improve inclusivity across the district, including offering translations, training staff on diverse practices, and prioritizing underserved communities. 

Lindley Wisnewski 

Wisnewski is the owner of My Gym Children’s Fitness Center in Skokie. She is a mother of two children, one of whom currently attends Niles West. 

Wisniewski served on the District 69 Board of Education while also being involved in other community boards, including the My Gym Children’s Fitness Center Franchise Advisory Board, the Evanston Youth Hockey Association Board, and the Ethiopian American Kids Community Board.

Wisniewski has expressed a belief in ensuring all students have equitable access to academic programs and extracurricular offerings. She has mentioned her commitment to guaranteeing that every D219 student can live a balanced life. 

“I deeply believe every student deserves equitable access to all programs and academic offerings,” Wisnewski said. “As a result, I will work tirelessly to lift up community voices with a commitment to each and every of our district’s diverse cultures, and ensure each D219 student’s ability to live their authentic lives in and out of school.”

The election for the D219 Board of Education presents an opportunity for community members to make their voices heard in shaping the future of education in the district. Each candidate brings a unique perspective and their priorities will directly impact students, teachers, and families.