Elmhurst District 205 Candidate Annette Franklin is a Substitute Teacher

• Elmhurst District 205 School Board Candidate: Annette Franklin
• email: sd205.annettefranklin@yahoo.com
• Family: daughter who graduated from Churchville Middle School and York High School, and three grandsons, one who attends Conrad Fischer School
• Education: Northeastern Illinois University, bachelor's degree in elementary education and natural science
• Occupation: substitute teacher in Elmhurst Unit District 205 and Salt Creek Elementary District 48
• Previous elected office: I have not held any official public office positions. This experience is my first, and I am excited.
• Applicable experience qualifying you for the position: My experience as a substitute teacher in two neighboring school districts helps me to understand the relationship between students, teachers and the district.  I can look at the “big picture." 

What is the primary reason you are running for this office?

The primary reason I am running for this office is to serve the students first, to be a voice and vote for the educational interests of our community, and to represent the culture and diversity of our district.

What is your priority if elected?

My first priority in office will be to listen, to understand all of the issues and concerns that impact the people we serve as well as the office we represent.  I have a reasonable knowledge of our educational system. I don’t know all the answers, but am willing to seek a better understanding of all parties.  We are all one unit, and if we are going to achieve the goal of being the best, we have to be prepared to make the necessary sacrifices.

What sets you apart from the other candidates?

My experience with talking and listening to teachers and subs gives me a different perspective on relationships within our educational systems. 

How long have you lived in Elmhurst?

I have been a resident of Elmhurst for 24 years. I grew up on the North Side of Chicago, walking distance from DePaul and Wrigley Field.  Yeah, that might get me a handful of votes!

What is your favorite thing about Elmhurst District 205?

Elmhurst District 205 has hosted outstanding cast members.  Our students, teachers, even our schools have received national honors and recognition, of which I am proud. We must maintain that tradition.

What is the biggest problem in Elmhurst District 205?

I think the biggest problem in District 205 is the budget. Did we overspend, waste or both? We have to utilize state and local resources to help fund our educational system and bring revenues back to the city.  

Do you think morale among teachers and staff is low, and if so, how, specifically, do you plan to improve it?

I understand that morale is low. The culture of our education system is changing. The district needs to get together and do whatever it takes to improve it.  Unfortunately, this will create more meetings.

Do you think District 205’s reputation has been eroded over the past couple of years? If so, what caused that and how, specifically, do you plan to improve it?

[Candidate did not answer this question.]

What “best practices” would you like to incorporate, either from previous District 205 administrators or from other school districts, to improve curriculum and student achievement?

The new administration will have new challenges to face.  I want to be a part of the team that will make the tough decisions, work diligently and profusely to bring about the change needed to help our students achieve academic excellence.  I will assist as best I can in the planning and use of revenues, assuring that it is utilized not wasted. 

Do you think the budget cuts are going to solve the district’s financial problems for the long term? What else can be done going forward to maintain a healthy budget?

Budget cuts are not going to solve the problems we face.  In fact, I know that it’s going to be tough for the next few years.  But in the end, strategic planning and preparation by the new administration will allow for a healthier and brighter future for us all.