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Curriculum, Communication Key Issues For Dist. 59 Candidates

School Board Contenders Square Off At League Of Women Voters Event In Elk Grove Village

Candidates running for Dist. 59 school board (from left) Patricia “Patti” Petrielli, Courtney Lang, James Goranson, Randall Reid, Daniel Naumowicz, Lisa Griffin and incumbent Barbara Somogyi take questions during candidates forum Saturday at Elk Grove Village Hall. (Tom Robb/Journal photo)

Seven candidates running for Elk Grove Township Elementary School Dist. 59 Board of Education squared off in a League of Women Voters’ candidate forum Saturday (March 9) at Elk Grove Village Hall, attended by about 60 people.

Candidates participating were incumbent Barbara Somogyi and challengers James Goranson, Lisa Griffin, Courtney Lang, Daniel Naumowicz, Patricia “Patti” Petrielli and Randall Reid.

In opening statements, Petrielli decried a lack of curriculum and called for greater transparency.

Reid called for improved communication between the district and community, a plan for the future and a “proper vision for the district.”

Griffin called for a “robust flexible curriculum” and better communications, better communications, ongoing teacher training and better financial decision making.

Naumowitz touted his experience in property management and decried the downward trend of school scores.

Somogyi touted her long history serving, not only on the school board, but Illinois State Board of Education for 20 years.

The issue of curriculum came up quickly when candidates were asked about metrics used to measure district success.

Goranson said the district needs a research based approach. He said intensifying dual language programs and focusing on reading and math would lead to higher test scores.

Reid said the focus should be on basic skills for students in kindergarten, first and second grades to “create the metrics we need.”

Namowicz said he agrees with Reid’s focus on early grades, adding the district needs to bring back homework, and questioned the district not using textbooks.

Griffin said she is thankful the state PARCC test is being replaced at the state level with a shorter test.

Somogyi talked about students and teachers getting the resources they need in the classroom.

Petrielli said the experiential learning model used by the district leaves gaps and a researched based curriculum would bring better test scores from students.

Lang said she spoke with teachers who complained curriculum plans changed each year for the last five years. Lang echoed others calling for researched based curriculum.

Candidates were asked about enhancing public awareness and communication with the community.

“We can always do better,” Somogyi said. She said much has changed since she moved to the district in 1967. It is now far more diverse.

Reid said more than 50 languages are spoken in Dist. 59 homes. He advocated using numerous means to reach those parents. “What works with one group might not work with another.”

Petrielli advocated televising school board meetings the way Elk Grove Village televises village board meetings.

That call for broadcasting school board meetings was echoed by Goranson.

Lang said she moved into the district because of its diversity. She advocated reaching out to the real estate community. Real estate agents often give ratings for schools, as it can be a key driver for home buyers.

Naumowicz advocated more public notice before school board meetings.

Griffin advocated using more technology and internet apps to reach people where they are.

One question asked: “How would you change the district culture so teachers are not afraid to speak up?”

“I feel bad this question came up,” Somogyi said. “People shouldn’t be intimidated if they have a legitimate concern.”

Others said they would hear teachers and be a voice for them and echoed Somogyi’s sentiment that teachers should be able to speak without fear of retribution.

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