Meet Candidate Julie Berry: School District 146 Candidate

TINLEY PARK, IL — Meet Julie Berry, Community Consolidated School District 146 school board candidate. The Consolidated Elections are April 6.

Berry recently filled out the Patch candidate survey, and her answers can be seen below.

If you are a candidate for the April election, and would like to answer our Patch candidate questionnaire, please email yasmeen.sheikah@patch.com.

Julie Berry

Age (as of election)

50

Town/city of residence

Tinley Park

School District

Community Consolidated School District 146

Family

My husband, Kevin, and I have four children who have graduated from or attend district
schools: Kyle, Lauren, Johnny, and Matthew.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education

Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, Minor in German

Occupation

I previously taught fourth grade at Kruse Education Center and left when my oldest son was born. Presently, my main focus is on raising my four children and taking care of my
family's day-to-day needs. I have been an active volunteer throughout the years, such as Junior Great Books group leader, Secretary of District 146 Band Parents Association,
Vice President of the Tinley Park High School Band Board, SAK basketball coach, Bulldogs Team Mom, and classroom volunteer. I have also spent time doing childcare,
tutoring, and employed by Statewide Publishing for office work.

Campaign website

Facebook: 146 Forward

Previous or current elected or appointed office

Community Consolidated School District 146 Board Member (2015-present), current Secretary.

The single most pressing issue facing our (board, district, etc.) is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

The most pressing issue is the impact of the Pandemic. I will continue to work towards a state of normalcy with staff and student safety at the forefront.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

While I may differ on occasion in opinions, I align in the ideals of how to work as a board with my fellow 146Forward running mates, Rick Lloyd, Jill Dunlap, and Patty Chlada. I am hopeful that we will all be elected, which will enable us to be an effective and collaborative board.

I differ from some of the candidates not on the 146Forward slate in my active participation in discussions, communication, collaboration, respect for others, transparency, regard for board protocol, years of involvement in District 146 school
matters, and attendance record for meetings.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community or district?

I am the current school board secretary

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform

I believe in a well-rounded education, equity for ALL students, quality communication, small class size, transparency, and an unrelenting focus on the whole child. I will continue to support the District's stellar art programs, various co-curricular activities, commitment to diversity, and family engagement goals. I believe it is essential that visionary leaders of the highest integrity lead the District and that its financial strength is preserved and protected.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

I am incredibly proud of District 146's outstanding progress over the past six years. In 2017, I voted in favor of the ambitious initiative of full-day play-based kindergarten designed to nurture the developmental learning stages of young children. I supported the building additions and renovations of Fulton, Kruse, Fierke, and Memorial that were completed within budget. I was actively involved in the collaborative strategic plan update, during which stakeholders were asked to provide input on the District's direction. I have demonstrated good governance with the ability to make tough decisions, and I have voted with conviction.

Why should voters trust you?

I believe in transparency and advocate for communication. In addition, I have the courage, fortitude, and desire to make a difference.

If you win this position, what accomplishment would make your term in office a success?

A successful term would entail working as a team with my fellow board members to focus on the goals and objectives outlined in our strategic plan. Our goals are categorized into four groups: student success, school environment, communication and engagement, and finance and facilities. Furthermore, a successful term will be the
realization of our strategic plan’s “Portrait of a Graduate”, which describes the desired characteristics for our graduates; empowered learners, effective communicators and
collaborators, and engaged citizens.

What are your views on fiscal policy, government spending and the handling of taxpayer dollars in the office you are seeking?

Our resources should be directed at providing our students with a first-rate education. It is a board member’s duty to always keep in mind that we are funded by taxpayer money
and should be fiscally responsible when making decisions.

Do you support Black Lives Matter and what are your thoughts on the demonstrations held since the death of George Floyd and the shooting of Jacob Blake?

I believe in diversity, equity, inclusion, and the right to demonstrate. Honoring our differences gives us strength and makes us a better society. Equality is a fundamental

human right.

Do you think the current board has done enough to support racial equality, and if not, what specifically should be done to do so?

There is always more work to do. As part of the current board, I worked on the update of the Strategic Plan that outlines our goals and objectives, which includes, “Foster a learning environment that honors diversity.” I will continue to support racial equality, and I understand the vital role that District 146 must take in eradicating inequalities based on race and other types of marginalization. I fully support our superintendent's community message from this past summer, which includes, “Racism has no place in District 146. Much work lies ahead and District 146 stands in solidarity with all of those who are rightfully demanding justice and equality.”

What are your thoughts on the district’s handling of the coronavirus pandemic? Are you in favor of remote learning, in-person learning or a hybrid of the two? Do you support a mask mandate for students and school staff, or mandatory coronavirus testing for both students and staff?

The Pandemic has presented many challenges that we all continue to work hard to overcome. I think in-person learning is most effective for students. I support the guidance from the Illinois State Board of Education, which includes the current mask requirement by IDPH.

When the vaccine is available to them, do you support mandatory COVID-19 vaccinations for students and staff?

At this time, the FDA has granted Emergency Use Authorization for COVID-19, and more complete data is necessary before considering a mandate. In addition, there should be broad public and professional support before considering a mandate for the COVID-19 vaccine.

Is there any reason you would not serve your full term of office, other than those of health or family?

No

The best advice ever shared with me was ____________

Count your blessings