Susan Dalton

Name

Susan A. Dalton, 49

Position Sought

Consolidated High School District 230 Board Member

Campaign Contact Information

Email: 230United@gmail.com

Website: 230 United

Mailing address: 230 United, 13801 Elm Street, Orland Park, IL 60462

Hometown

Orland Park

Family Members

Husband: John Dalton, 47, employed at the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago

Daughter: Catherine Dalton, 20

Son: James Dalton, 17

Education

Carl Sandburg High School, Class of 1981; Moraine Valley Community College, 2001, A.S.

Current Occupation and Employer

Office Administrator/Human Resources at Diamond Pool & Spa, Inc.; Parent Faculty Student Association (PFSA) Recording Secretary, Carl Sandburg High School; Parent School Improvement Committee, Carl Sandburg High School

Political Party Affiliation

Nonpartisan

Why are you seeking office?

I have always had a deep interest in our schools and the education process. I continue to be inspired by District 230's student body and wish to ensure them every opportunity and support mechanism our taxpaying community can afford them as District 230 prepares them for their future. I wish to continue the excellence District 230 is known for.

What is the most challenging issue facing the district?

The uncertainty of future funding from the State of Illinois along with the unresolved pension issues are challenges the next school board will need to address. Ensuring our district utilizes its limited funds to the fullest will be the most challenging issue.

What past experience in your life, whether work or otherwise, would you say qualifies you well to serve on this board, and how?

Through the years I have sat on numerous boards. I collaborate well with others to find solutions by asking pertinent questions and listening to all points of views. I work best when focusing on achieving balanced, fair, and practical solutions.

Have you ever been charged with a crime or lost a lawsuit? If yes, please say what the charge was, and the case's and/or lawsuit's outcome.

No.

Where do you stand on common core standards? What can schools do to get ready?

In general, I feel it is important that key fundamentals be covered by all school districts. As these common core standards will be given to both the elementary and high schools, this may help in aligning the goals of transitioning from one district to the next. I have great confidence the Department of Instructional Services and the Department Chairs will meet and exceed the Common Core guidelines.

Revenue from the state are drying up. Rank the following in order of importance: 1) Staff Cuts 2) Contract Renegotiations 3) Operating Expense Cuts 4) Tax Increases or Other Funding Sources. Explain your reasoning.

My position on this question is not by ranking the order of importance but by taking a balanced approach to finances. In the event enrollment decreases, then I would look to use an attrition approach. A continued review of set expenses needs to be routinely made to ensure the best value is being received. The District should always be creative in bringing in new revenue and I would not be in favor of a tax rate increase at this time.

What are your thoughts on recent redistricting? Should students be able to go where their families originally planned or does the need to balance school population come first, and why?

I feel the current board made a thoughtful and logical decision on the redistricting issue. Changes like these are always difficult for families, especially for the students immediately affected. However I feel the board gave them the opportunity to make the best choice within their circumstances. We are a consolidated high school district, so at times changes may be necessary in order to ensure that all three schools are running at healthy levels.

What are your thoughts on students using smartphones during the school day, but not during class? Why are you for or against it?

Personally and not popularly, I am not all that in favor of the new technology policy. However, it may end up being a good exercise for the students to learn how to limit their use of such devices during their time outside the classroom.

What can schools and school districts do to increase safety?

District 230 has always focused on the safety of our student body and staff. It is important to be vigilant in all areas of the safety of our school community from addressing bullying, dealing with drug issues, to the buildings' security. Safety is an ever-changing pursuit and needs to be viewed as such.

Any other information pertinent to your campaign?

I would be honored to serve the Community of District 230. If elected I will do my personal best to balance the needs of the students and staff of District 230 with the needs of the stakeholders of District 230. I will work diligently on District matters and take my fiduciary responsibilities seriously.