By: Gillian Adkins, Itzel Chavero, Michael Del Genio, Bianca Dinkha, Charlotte Hain, Joseph Zuniga
The Oak Park River Forest (OPRF) school board race is heating up as candidates are soon to be elected, with voting set for April 1st.
Our reporters got an opportunity to speak to all six candidates: Nathan Mellman, Josh Gertz, Dave Schaafsma, Audrey Williams-Lee, Kathleen Odell, and Fred Arkin as early voting began Mar 17.
Mellman spoke about the importance of punitive justice and discipline in OPRF. Schaafsma focused on a more restorative justice approach. And Williams-Lee is committed to promoting the inclusion of not only parents but parents of color to have a voice in the decision making.
Arkin advocates for continuity as he believes that the board has done a good job overall, especially with equity and inclusivity. Gertz stands for budgeting within the school district. He has noticed that there is a lot of money being spent in other directions that could be used for the education of students.
Lastly, Odell supports education equity and is a strong advocateof the “Honors for All” freshman curriculum, which works to reduce racial gaps, providing equal academic opportunities for all students.
The candidates share a common approach to detracking. They believe that the effects of this have resulted in achievement gaps among students. Despite running on different slates, the candidates share an interest in closing the achievement gap between white students and students of color.
Other candidates like Schaafsma are interested in promoting the trades at OPRF and showing students that not everyone has to go to college. He asserted that trades are a valuable career option, especially given the current shortage in the field.
The race presents a diverse range of perspectives, each candidate bringing unique priorities to the table. With the election quickly approaching, it’s essential to stay informed about where each candidate stands on key issues.
You can check out each individual profile down below to learn more about their positions. Don’t forget to make your voice heard and vote on April 1st!
D200 Board of Education Candidates:
Frederick Arkin
Josh Gertz
Kathleen Odell
Dave Schaafsma
Audrey Williams-Lee
Nathan Mellman
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