Richard Bobby III: 2025 candidate for Huntley Unit District 158 board

Bio

Office Sought: Huntley Unit District 158 board (Vote for 4)

City: Lake in the Hills

Age: 47

Occupation: CEO

Previous offices held: No public offices held

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

As a parent of two D158 students, a licensed clinical social worker, CEO of Little City a nonprofit serving children and adults with autism, intellectual and other developmental disabilities, and board president of the Huntley 158 Education Foundation, I am passionate about sharing my expertise and serving my community to improve outcomes for all students, especially students with special needs.

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

I believe in empowering our district’s superintendent and subject matter expert staff to ensure that curriculum supports all students’ academic and social-emotional needs, with a strong focus on students who require special education services.

The role of the school board is to ask the difficult questions, challenge assumptions, support district leadership in curriculum implementation, and then evaluate its effectiveness for future decision-making.

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

We need to continue to move past the illusion of inclusion for students who have disabilities and strive for meaningful inclusion in their community. There is a cliff upon a student with a disability turning the age 22, and we need to prepare students for various pathways postsecondary and transition education.

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?

I consistently strive to have an open mind, including the idea that my original beliefs may be wrong or many not benefit everyone. It is imperative that we always look at any policy or controversy through the lens of our students, staff who support them, parents, and community impact.

To me, it is important that everyone have voice even if I disagree with an opinion, I will strive to understand their perspective. In the end for any decision, everyone should have a voice even if not everyone has a vote. My votes will be based on data rather than any political influence or perspective. I am also believer in following the laws, even when I don’t agree with them.

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.

In my work life, this is my primary role as CEO of a major nonprofit, working with others collaboratively to create and advocate for policy change to improve the lives of others. It is important to listen to everyone’s perspectives, and ensure the policy we’re advocating for is aligned with the district’s strategic plan, and doesn’t have unintended consequences.

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.

The school district currently has an equity plan that I support. Unfortunately, these terms meanings have evolved into an unfortunate political discord. One thing this is not often mentioned in this national dialogue includes people with disabilities.

I believe people with disabilities need to be included in our community, have equitable opportunities, and create part of our diversity. I believe all students always should have the supports and resources to level the playing field that is not always equitable.

What makes you the best candidate for the job?

Personally, I’m a father of two D158 students, married to a public school teacher for another district, professionally I have over 25 years experience serving children and families in need, 20 years of leadership experience including serving as CEO for a major nonprofit. And I have a track record of volunteerism including serving as board president of the Huntley 158 Education Foundation. I am the best candidate for this most important community service role.

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

Increasing the supports and resources for students receiving special education services. Parents who have students with disabilities are concerned about the day the bus stops coming at age 22, and we need to provide parents and their students with hope and guidance on the various pathways of opportunity for them once they’ve completed schooling. I’m committed to advocate for the LIGHT program and all special education services.