How should the board communicate (either in giving information or listening) with the public?
In-Township (Vote for 1)
Rebecca Richardson: The community is the ultimate customer of the school district, so it should have considerable input. Those elected are community members who represent their constituents, so it is important to develop transparency and trust with the community and to ensure all business with few exceptions is conducted in a manner that is accessible to the community. Ongoing communication both outward and inward through the vision setting process will yield the healthiest and strongest partnership between families, community members and local businesses.
Max McComb: The past few years there have been loud voices in our community proclaiming their belief that there are major issues with our school district and we need massive change. They claim the district is fundamentally broken and needs significant reform. That message is refuted by the fact that many people moved to Mahomet-Seymour or stayed here because of the schools. It is also refuted by the fact that we are consistently recognized as one of the Top 50 school districts in the State of Illinois. I believe it is important to listen to all citizens and all stakeholders. Not just those who cry out the loudest or have the attention of local media. Personally, I reject the narrative that our district is broken and needs to be radically changed into something none of us would recognize. I need your vote this election to preserve and improve the school district our community takes such pride in.
Laura Lang: Engagement with the community cannot just be a token gesture. If we say that we will represent constituents and reflect community values, then we must provide the forums in which communal brainstorming can occur. It is extremely difficult to have meaningful community communication within a board meeting, so I would propose other opportunities for the board to hear from the community: both planned and organic. Our community committees need to represent all of the different types of peoples that live in and around Mahomet, not just the most prestigious or most connected.
Rebecca Richardson: A well-designed, ongoing communication plan is the best way to develop community trust and support. It doesn’t happen by accident. This plan should be comprehensive and include various methods for communication such as involvement in school and civic activities, conduct at school board meetings, consistent availability such as office hours for constituents and interaction with administrators, students and staff.
Sunny McMurry: How many times have you heard that people move here for the schools? For me, it’s quite often. Therefore, community input into the mission and vision for our schools is essential. The board needs to hear all voices and then use what they are hearing to determine the path forward. Obviously, community input would also come in partnership with the experts doing the day-to-day work (our teachers, staff and administrators) to help refine what our district is and aims to be.
The recently executed Bulldog Blueprint facility planning committee is a great place for communication to take place. I have also often used the public comment time at board meetings to share my perspective as a parent and community member, as have many others. Beyond that, I also greatly appreciate when board members take time to speak with me regarding ideas or goals. While some board members are quick to respond to questions and comments, not all are. I have been disheartened when I reach out to specific board members and get radio silence. I feel it is important to at least acknowledge that needs are heard, even if the outcome is not in line with what I had hoped for. This is why, should I hold a seat on the board, I would communicate with our constituents through personal conversations. I am a firm believer that email or texting does not lead to meaningful understanding. Therefore, I would do everything I can to hold conversations with anyone who has questions, concerns or ideas.
Out-of-Township (Vote for 1)
Patrick MacKay: The board, as an elected body, has an obligation and duty to keep the public informed at all times. This should include formal mechanisms like board meetings and special sessions and informal ones like town halls, coffee connections, or even “ask me anything” sessions with constituents. In the end the board needs to be available to the persons that elected it’s members in the first place.
Justin Lamb: The community should play a huge role in the vision for the district. The success of the community and the district depend on each other. Board members should provide multiple avenues of communication and take the time to talk with and listen to community members.
