I am a professional law enforcement officer, dedicated public servant, and a respected elected official. Prior to my career in law enforcement, I spent 10 years in Chicago Public Schools as a licensed substitute teacher. I know what it’s like to assign and grade homework, manage a rambunctious classroom, take attendance, teach a lesson plan, and moderate co-curriculars. During my tenure, I repeate
dly witnessed students from disadvantaged and neglected communities receive disproportionate and inadequate funding and resources, which broke my heart. I would eventually matriculate out of the classroom, but I never forgot the resilient lessons I learned there. And this is why, driven by a strong sense of moral obligation, I have decided to declare my candidacy for School District 49 Board of Education leadership. My goals will include: 1) ensuring that resources are distributed equitably, so that all students are able to fully realize their academic potential, 2) facilitating the professional development of all staff persons and, 3) demanding rigorous, challenging, and redeeming educational standards…and their application. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Philosophy and Spanish from North Park University and a Master’s Degree in Christian Ministry from North Park Theological Seminary. I am a husband and father to four and in my spare time I enjoy spending time with my family, working on various home improvement projects, and running.