Fiscal Responsibility

I will hold district leaders accountable to my vision of a steady, responsible, budget that prioritizes student needs.

I have held district leaders accountable to my vision of a steady, responsible budget that prioritizes student needs. My voting record proves this commitment: I've voted against high-interest loans that would saddle CPS with debt service, against maximizing the property tax levy without exhausting other options, against a "phantom budget" that relied on unpromised dollars from Springfield, and consistently against wasteful central office spending. I've demanded transparency on how dollars are allocated and held the district accountable for delivering on its promises to students and families. I hold monthly office hours across District 4 where families bring concerns directly to me, and I meet regularly with district leaders to push for accountability and solutions. These conversations have given me deep insight into both the challenges we face and the opportunities ahead. Moving forward, I'm eager to explore innovative solutions to the CPS financial crisis, such as forming strategic partnerships with major corporations right here in Chicago. Imagine the potential if companies like Google, Microsoft, and the more than 30 Fortune 500 companies headquartered in our city teamed up with CPS. These partnerships could provide not only financial support but also invaluable resources and real-world opportunities for our students. Such collaborations could help bridge funding gaps while enriching our students' educational experiences. Let's build bridges between the business world and our schools to create a brighter future for Chicago's students dents.

I wholeheartedly support the implementation and funding of CPS’s new school safety plan.

For me, school safety is about more than just physical security. To create a truly safe and positive learning environment, we must prioritize mental health resources, expand restorative justice programs, and ensure our staff are trained in conflict resolution. Building strong, trusting relationships between students, teachers, and families is essential for fostering schools where everyone feels valued and heard. All schools must have multi-tiered systems of support and crisis interventions. Most importantly, as a board member, I will ensure the implementation of the safety plan in all of our schools.

I envision schools where every student experiences a deep sense of belonging, where diversity is celebrated, and where both teachers and students can express themselves authentically in a safe space. When we cultivate respect and understanding, we not only create safer schools but also nurture communities where every individual has the chance to thrive.

Keeping Students Safe

Investing in Our Students Equitably 

Chicago Public Schools must prioritize strengthening ALL of our neighborhood schools, especially in under-resourced communities.

We need to create a fully resourced, thriving education system where every student and family is engaged and empowered. It's time to explore innovative funding solutions that lessen CPS’s heavy reliance on property taxes and address inequities—without compromising the quality of schools that are already excelling. By investing equitably, we can ensure that every child has access to the tools and opportunities they need to succeed, regardless of their ZIP code.

Transparent, Authentic Community Engagement

Authentic engagement means acknowledging and addressing systemic inequities, building trust, and empowering communities.

I will ensure that communities have a lasting voice in the educational process by holding town halls in District 4, having open dialogue with my constituents, and inviting local advisory councils to all board meetings. CPS must ensure that community input is not only heard but acted upon. I will make sure that all stakeholders are included in the process long before decisions are made.