Special Ed Teacher, D230 Board Member Will Seek Orland Trustee Seat

ORLAND PARK, IL — A teacher and member of the District 230 Board of Education has filed to run for trustee in Orland Park, according to a release.

Mohammed Jaber on Friday announced that he will run as a Democrat, independently of any slate.

Jaber is a Special Education teacher and a current IHSA referee. He was a part-time adjunct instructor of Intensive English Language at Moraine Valley Community College. In 2023, he was elected to serve on the Community High School District 230 Board.

Jaber has been vocal about his concerns surrounding tax increment financing districts, specifically. Jaber co-hosted a Town Hall meeting to help educate residents on TIFs and the spending process.

He will appear on the Feb. 25, 2025 primary election ballot, and then on the April 1 municipal election.

Jaber identified specific goals as being responsible with village tax dollars, and being more transparent with the public about all issues. He would want to be a partner with local schools, athletic and activity programs.

Also jockeying for positions on the board are candidates on former trustee Jim Dodge's Orland Park For All Slate, as well as current Mayor Keith Pekau's People Over Politics.