Allison C. Williams: 2025 candidate for Carol Stream Elementary District 93 board

Bio

Office sought: Carol Stream Elementary District 93 board (Vote for 4)

City: Carol Stream

Age: 42

Occupation: School social worker

Previous offices held: District 93 board member, 2023-25

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

After 19 years in education, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges and shortcomings that public schools face on a daily basis. I’ve worked alongside teachers and staff who are deeply committed to their students, but who are often held back by barriers that impede their ability to deliver the best education possible.

As an educator, I’ve experienced the frustration of raising concerns or requesting resources only to see these requests be delayed or not addressed.

I’m running for school board because I believe I can help remove these barriers and create a more supportive environment for students and staff. I know that when teachers and staff have the tools, resources, and support they need, students thrive.

As a board member, I have and will continue to work to ensure that the needs of those on the front lines are heard and acted upon, so that decisions can be made more quickly and effectively to improve student outcomes.

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

A school board member plays a crucial role in setting and monitoring the curriculum to ensure it aligns with the community’s vision and values. As an elected representative, I take seriously my role of approving educational programs that reflect the priorities and expectations of the families we serve.

This includes educating myself on curriculum materials, ensuring our programs meet state standards, and providing oversight to guarantee the students in our community receive a well-rounded, high-quality education.

By actively reviewing and assessing curriculum effectiveness, we as school board members can help maintain academic excellence while also ensuring that local values and community input are considered in educational decisions.

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

It is essential that we as board members continuously monitor the effectiveness of our curriculum. In District 93, committees of educators complete scheduled reviews of our programs to ensure that our instructional materials remain rigorous, relevant, and aligned with both state standards and the needs of our students.

Additionally, as state laws evolve and stakeholder values and concerns shift, the board must remain proactive in making necessary adjustments to ensure our curriculum continues to reflect the priorities of our community and provide the best possible education for all students.

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 love hearing from all members of our community on all topics related to the district, and I welcome diverse viewpoints.

One of my favorite parts of being a board member is the opportunity to represent all stakeholders — students, parents, educators, and community members — ensuring that everyone has a voice in the decisions that impact our schools.

I consider myself a strong advocate, committed to listening with an open mind and engaging in meaningful discussions, even when opinions differ. While difficult decisions must sometimes be made, my approach is always to consider all perspectives and make choices that best support our students and the future of our 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 extensive experience working in group settings to determine policy, particularly through my background as a school social worker, where I have seen firsthand how policies impact students, families, and educators.

This experience allows me to bring a valuable perspective to policy discussions, helping to identify potential concerns and ensure decisions are practical and student-centered. My approach in a group setting is to listen actively, ask thoughtful questions, and engage in open discussions to foster collaboration among board members.

During open sessions, I use my background knowledge to raise important considerations, encouraging productive dialogue that leads to well-informed decisions.

By focusing on transparency, critical thinking, and teamwork, I believe this approach helps create policies that effectively support student success and align 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, of would you rather see them diminished. Please explain your reasoning.

I support the district’s diversity and equity efforts because they play a crucial role in ensuring that all students receive the resources, opportunities, and support they need to be successful.

A strong commitment to equity helps create an inclusive learning environment where every student, regardless of background or circumstance, has the tools to thrive.

While progress has been made, it is important to continually assess and enhance these programs to meet the evolving needs of our students and community. By prioritizing equity, we are investing in the success of all learners and fostering a school culture that values and respects diversity.

What makes you the best candidate for the job?

I believe I am the best candidate for this position because of my experience in education, my deep commitment to representing all members of our community, and my dedication to student success and wellness.

As a school social worker, I have seen firsthand how policies and procedures impact students, educators, and families, giving me valuable insight into the real-world effects of board decisions. I am an advocate for all stakeholders and welcome diverse viewpoints, using open discussion to ensure policies reflect the needs and values of our community.

My leadership style is collaborative, focusing on listening, asking thoughtful questions, and working with others to find solutions that serve all students. I am dedicated to making informed decisions that promote excellence in our schools.

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

I have many ideas! One idea is to expand community partnerships to help students access mental health resources more easily. Strengthening relationships with local organizations can provide additional support for students who may not otherwise have access to the services they need.

Additionally, I believe the school board can build stronger connections with the community by expanding our listening post opportunities to occur at the public library or a local park instead of the district office.

Another valuable initiative would be developing an online forum where community members can submit suggestions or thoughts for district improvement, fostering more engagement and transparency.

Lastly, implementing an MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) process for staff — similar to what we have for students — would provide tiered levels of support to educators and staff when needed, helping to improve retention, morale, and effectiveness which would positively impact students.

By taking proactive steps in these areas, we can enhance both student and staff success while strengthening our district’s connection to the community.