Amanda McMillen: 2025 candidate for Naperville Unit District 203 board

Bio

Office sought: Naperville Unit District 203 board (Vote for 4)

City: Naperville

Age: 46

Occupation: Nonprofit management

Previous offices held: Naperville 203 School Board, first term 2021

Why are you running for this office? Is there a particular issue that motivates you?

I have gained valuable experience during my first term on the 203 school board and take this responsibility seriously. Our district is the hub of the community, consistently ranked in the top percentiles for student performance and recognized nationally for educational innovation.

I am running for reelection to uphold this excellence, support innovation, and ensure Naperville remains one of the best communities to live and learn.

What is the role of the school board in setting and monitoring the curriculum?

The board sets the district’s vision, to guide the design and implementation of effective practices that enhance academic achievement, social-emotional growth, and postsecondary readiness for all students.

The school board reviews and approves program materials or course changes based on recommendations by the administration to support curricula developed collaboratively by teachers, staff, and administration. They ensure alignment with ISBE learning standards, college and career readiness, and student interests.

Are there curriculum issues within the district that you feel need particular attention from the board?

I don’t see specific curriculum issues requiring board action at this time. However, we must focus on ensuring equitable access to courses and opportunities so all students can reach their fullest potential. This includes addressing achievement gaps and reducing predictable disparities across the district.

How do you view your role in confronting policy or curriculum controversies: provide leadership even if unpopular, give a voice to constituents — even ones with whom you disagree, or defer to state authorities?

During my term, we have navigated several controversial policy and curriculum decisions with strong community feedback.

As a board member, I believe in a transparent process that considers data, the rationale for changes, community input, and perspectives from staff and students. By weighing all factors, I strive to make informed decisions that best serve our students and district.

Describe your experience working in a group setting to determine policy. What is your style in such a setting to reach an agreement and manage school district policy? Explain how you think that will be effective in producing effective actions and decisions for your school board.

I have served on policy review committees focused on student discipline and the code of conduct, collaborating with staff, students, and parents. I ensure I am well-prepared by reviewing all materials beforehand.

In discussions, I allow staff to facilitate while encouraging students and parents to share their perspectives on policy implementation and needed changes. I ask clarifying questions and support recommendations that reflect the collective input. This collaborative, informed approach ensures policies are effective, equitable, and aligned with the needs of our district.

What is your assessment of the school district's diversity and equity efforts? Do you support the continuation or enhancement of such programs, or would you rather see them diminished. Please explain your reasoning.

As a parent of four teenagers, I’ve learned that each child is unique, with different motivations, interests, and needs. Supporting them equitably means understanding those differences and providing the right resources to help them thrive.

Similarly, in our schools, diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) are essential. When all students feel valued, respected, and supported, they are more likely to succeed. I fully support continuing and enhancing DEIB efforts to ensure every student has the opportunities and resources they need to reach their full potential.

What makes you the best candidate for the job?

I am an experienced and trusted leader in the Naperville community, dedicated to ensuring excellence in District 203.

Over the past four years, I have helped guide the district in achieving academic excellence, becoming a leader in social-emotional support, and earning recognition for transformative equity work.

Our schools continue to be nationally recognized for their excellence and innovation, and I am committed to building on this progress to support all students, families, and educators.

What’s one good idea you have to better your district that no one is talking about yet?

An exciting opportunity for our district is exploring ways to reduce our carbon footprint. We can integrate more green energy solutions into our schools while empowering students to take the lead on sustainability initiatives.

By incorporating these efforts into hands-on learning projects, students can apply real-world problem-solving skills while making a tangible impact on their environment.