Melissa Maiorino for SCHOOL BOARD

My name is Melissa Maiorino, and I’m running for the nonpartisan position of school board member for Huntley Community School District 158.

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I want to emphasize the importance of the word nonpartisan, which means “not biased or aligned with any political group.”

As a school board member, decisions about education must be made without bias or prejudice, whether in engaging with the community, listening to staff concerns, or supporting students. I realize this is not always easy.

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We all have biases shaped by personal experiences, relationships, social media, and news. But my experience as a CASA advocate for foster children and a sexual assault medical advocate has taught me how to set aside biases in order to focus on doing what is right. Every child, family, staff or community member in D158 deserves that same level of fairness and dedication, no matter their background.

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My passion for serving on the board goes beyond buzzwords like “fiscal responsibility” and “curriculum.” A high-quality education starts with a safe, trustworthy, supportive learning environment that encompasses the overall well being of our students. We must honestly and proactively address the challenges that disrupt learning—because while these issues aren’t unique to D158, how we respond is.

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As a school board member, I will strive to create and foster a community that takes a stand against bullying. I will advocate for and participate in any student-led anti-bullying programs created to support and mentor both the victim and aggressor. 

I will use my voice to advocate for additional social workers in our schools, so that staff is not overloaded and students have timely access to support. 

I will use my voice to continue advocating for our special education students and their families. This is not just a campaign talking point, but  something I have been committed to for eight years.  Through  my involvement with SEAC (Special Education Advisory Committee) since its inception in 2019 and the LIGHT steering committee, I’ve worked to improve services, communication and collaboration within the special education department. Watching the vision of the LIGHT vocational center come to fruition was heartwarming and exciting knowing the opportunities it will bring for our young adult transition students.

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I will use my voice to advocate for deans dedicated to students with IEPs and 504s could help  families and administration navigate challenges more effectively.

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I firmly believe that when we remove barriers to learning, student engagement will increase and academic performance will naturally improve.

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Finally, let’s talk about the role of the school board. While I could outline my personal ideas and what “I” would do as a board member, the reality is that no single board member has that power. A school board operates collectively and collaboratively to set the vision and goals for the district. It is then the superintendent’s role to implement that vision. The board’s responsibility is to monitor progress, ensure accountability, and uphold its commitment to stakeholders, but it does not micromanage the day-to-day operations of the district or its individual schools.

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My experience on the board has taught me the importance of listening to truly understand diverse perspectives, issues, and ideas. We must be open to discussion and avoid dismissing one another in haste. I pledge to work collaboratively with all who are elected to the board.

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If elected, I will bring my passion, experience, and commitment to ensuring every child in D158 receives the education and support they deserve.

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Thank you.

Melissa