My Priorities
Working with the people of Wheaton over the last 6 years has taught me that my family’s priorities are your family’s priorities!
We all share the same ideals of a safe community, high quality services, and an affordable cost of living.
I have connected with residents, visitors and businesses to address these concerns for the community of Wheaton and I plan to do the same for the larger community of the 47th district.
Strong Public Schools
We can all agree that strong public schools give kids throughout our communities an opportunity to thrive and be successful, contributing residents. Future generations depend on the knowledge and experiences students have in our local schools. Post-secondary access and affordability is also important. Technical and trade schools train young people for essential careers throughout our communities. When our state invests in high quality Illinois state post-secondary schools/programs we not only keep young people here, we bring young people to the state of Illinois. This both grows our economy and the sense of community that ties us together.
Building Purposeful Relationships
The connection between local governments and the state of Illinois will be especially important as the federal government continues to cut services, often to our most vulnerable populations. In my experience when challenges arise, neighbors and community partners are often the first to step up and address the problem. It’s only when there is an impasse or they need some extra help with the solution, that they come to their local, state or federal government. As a civics teacher, I have always encouraged my students to reach out to their elected officials beyond voting (We the People). While the problems we face are often complex, the solutions we build together serve to improve the quality of life for all residents. I have a proven record of being an engaged leader that brings people together and gets stuff done!
Affordability
No one wants an unstable economy. Our teens want access to summer jobs that teach them work ethic and put spending money in their pockets. Our young adults want college opportunities and access to affordable technical programs without incurring massive debt. Early career individuals want affordable rental options without the fear of never being able to purchase their own home. Families want affordable child care, health care and the ability to give their children a well rounded upbringing. Established adults look forward to a healthy and happy retirement experience without the fear of running out of money. We all want to make ends meet when buying groceries and paying our bills. And while it’s up to each of us to do our best and help our families and neighbors, the state government plays an important role in the economic prosperity of all of us.