Election 2013 Candidate: Michael Joseph Dickman

Name: Michael Joseph Dickman

Position Sought: School Board Member, District 106, La Grange Highlands

Campaign Contact Information: mjdkmn@yahoo.com / 630 234 1893

What will be your single most important priority if you get elected?: To implement advances developed in the science of learning and education, within budget limitations of School District 106.

Home Address: 5549 Laurel Avenue, La Grange Highlands, IL 60525

Family Members:

Ms. Lisa Saviano (Fiancee)
Ms. Nicky Dickman (Daughter)

Education:

Roosevelt University, BSBA, 1984
DePaul College of Law, JD, 1990

Current Occupation and Employer:

Attorney & Staff Counsel, Legal Aid Society of Metropolitan Family Services
Former Assistant States Attorney, Judicial Officer, Assistant Public Defender, Illinois Appellate Court Staff Attorney & private practice attorney.
Teacher, Adviser & Mentor, Cook County Circuit Court Legal Advice Desk/Web Center.

Political Party Affiliation: Democrat, member Lyons Township Democratic Party & the La Grange Highlands Civic Association

Why are you seeking office?: I wish to serve the children and families of my community, because our schools and communities now face ongoing, complex challenges that require skills and leadership. Educating children requires rigorous attention to fundamentals, while also incorporating advances developed in the science of learning. While we vigilantly honor taxpayer and budgetary concerns, we must progress to implement strategies and methods that provide our students with the best foundation to reach their full potential, and compete in an ever changing and challenging global marketplace. These are the principles that will guide my approach if honored to serve as a District 106 School Board member.

What sets you apart from the other candidates (if applicable)?: I believe I have the most diverse professional experience within the legal community of all the candidates in this race, having served in virtually all capacities in the courtroom, as judicial official, prosecutor, defense counsel and Appeals Court staff attorney. In addition, in my current capacity I teach law and legal principles to college and law school students, and provide a wide range of information to the general public seeking strategic advice for their legal issues.

What are the other issues you plan to address in this position, and how?: I wish to pursue cutting edge advances in inspiring students, especially special ed and other students struggling with reaching their fullest potential. Also, to develop innovative ways to better manage financial issues, while honoring the education professionals we entrust to educate those most important to us, the children who are the future of our country, and trust us to provide them with the knowledge they need to reach their fullest potential.

Please add any other information pertinent to your campaign: Last year, I was honored to be a candidate for Judge from our community, when I ran for Judge from the 4th Judicial Sub Circuit of the Circuit Court of Cook County. During the campaign I met and connected with people throughout the Western suburbs at train stations, supermarkets and other gathering places, and had the opportunity to listen to their hopes and concerns. While I did not prevail in that race, in many ways I won from the incredible experience the campaign provided, and now I bring that knowledge along with my professional skills and passion to serve the families of School District 106.

See also:

Election 2013: D106 Board