PK Parekh Joins BABD Advocacy Group in Central 301

Building A Better District (BABD), the grassroots community initiative focused on accountability, transparency, and improved educational outcomes in Central Community Unit School District 301, is proud to welcome PK Parekh as the newest member of its leadership and advocacy team.

PK Parekh, a resident of Plato Township and parent in Central 301, brings more than two decades of high-level executive experience and a deep commitment to K-12 education. In the private sector, Parekh has held senior leadership roles at Discover Financial Services, scaling new businesses and shaping them into industry leaders. His work has focused on strategic planning, governance, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence — skills he now brings to the public education space.

He currently serves as Chairperson of the Board of North Chicago Community Partners (NCCP), a nonprofit that provides critical academic, health, and community resources to underserved K-12 students in District 187. His governance experience also includes service as President and Treasurer of a 400-unit condominium association, as well as active membership in the Private Directors Association, a professional organization dedicated to excellence in board governance. He is an active member of Illinois Association for Gifted Children and volunteers at area schools.

Over the past year, Parekh has been a consistent voice at Central 301 Board of Education meetings and forums, advocating for increased transparency, stronger fiscal responsibility, and expanded curriculum opportunities for advanced learners. He has also collaborated with district administrators and community members to improve communication, restore public trust, and advance meaningful reforms.

“PK’s leadership style is data-driven, student-centered, and collaborative,” said Micheline Welch, co-founder of Building A Better District. “He understands what good governance looks like and is deeply invested in improving academic opportunities for all students in our district. We’re thrilled to have him on board.”

Building A Better District is a nonpartisan coalition of parents, taxpayers, educators, and community members dedicated to ensuring responsible leadership and long-term success for Central 301 students. The addition of PK Parekh reinforces the organization’s commitment to bringing experienced, solution-focused voices into the conversation about our district’s future. For more information go to www.buildingabetterdistrict.org.