What people in the community are saying.
Why Melissa?
"I'm voting for Melissa because she has demonstrated time and time again that she genuinely cares for the students of D158. She doesn't just show up during election time - she's always at district functions, taking time away from her own family, to support and acknowledge the children in the community. Melissa is the real deal."
Katherine C. - Parent
"Melissa, thank you for being devoted, hard-working, caring, and thoughtful. You always do what’s best for me, other students in our schools, and our teachers. If I could vote, I would vote for you!"
Maddie M. - Current Student
"Melissa is a candidate that parents can trust. She has no hidden personal or political agenda. She wants the same changes parents want. She is qualified, she is honest and she’s a parent."
Lori L. - Parent
"I'm voting for Melissa because she comes with experience, compassion, and balance. Melissa isn't afraid to stand up for what is right for our student population as whole. We need her energy on the D158 board."
Matt G - Parent
“Melissa is a wonderful candidate for the D158 School Board. Melissa is not only involved around the community, but wants nothing but the best for the students in our District. She also supports student’s mental health by advocating for the help students need both in and out of the classroom. She is the voice that many students need.”
Hailee M, Former D158 Student (Class of 2022)
“Melissa cares about the students in our district and fights for our special needs children as well. She wants them to have every opportunity possible so they can grow and become an active part of society. She is proactive in her approach as well as through when problems arise that need to be addressed at the school board level. “
Michelle E. - Parent
"I feel like Melissa not only listened but she understood our special education needs and problems. As a parent of a child who had/has specific needs, she stood up for special education needs and tried to get and give more understanding of some specific special education needs. She is a great advocate for special education."
Colleen R. (Parent of 3, last one graduated 2024)
"As a CASA, Melissa volunteers and advocates to be a child's voice in court.Her passion for being present for all children and making sure all the children are heard and seen makes me believe that she will be the voice for ALL our children as a D158 School Board Member."
S.R.S. - Parent
“Melissa has already shown her dedication on the school board, standing firm in her principles even when facing resistance. Despite criticism, she remained focused on what truly matters—advocating for every student with unwavering integrity. Her tenacity and advocacy make her exactly the kind of board member our district needs. She’s not here for politics or popularity; she’s here to do what’s right, no matter what.”
Jennifer M.
Grow Your Vision
FIVE KEY FACTS ABOUT MY CAMPAIGN
1.
Students at the Core – Every decision I make will prioritize students, their learning, and their well-being.
2.
Safe & Inclusive Schools – I will advocate for addressing bullying, behavioral challenges, and emotional support needs to create a positive learning environment for students and staff.
3.
Responsible Investment – I support responsible budgeting and investing in curriculum and resources that meet students’ diverse learning needs and ensure access to education at their highest potential.
4.
Support for Teachers & Staff – I believe in fair wages, the collective bargaining process, and providing educators with the respect and resources they need to feel empowered and succeed.
5.
Community Engagement –I will remain actively involved in committees such as SEAC (Special Education Advisory Committee), PTAC (Parent Teacher Advisory Committee), and the Guiding Team for our Strategic Plan 2030 to collaborate with and stay connected to families, staff, and students, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued.
CAMPAIGN BUZZ
February 24, 2025
Melissa attended the D158 Candidate Forum organized by the Del Webb Sun City Civics Committee.
It was a wonderful opportunity to hear from all ten candidates and to engage with Sun City residents about the school district issues that are important to them.
Thank you to everyone who volunteered their time to organize this event.
March 1, 2025
Melissa participated in the Inspire 158 Candidate Forum, hosted by a nonpartisan community group dedicated to providing up-to-date information on board actions. The forum was open to all candidates, with seven in attendance. Candidates received questions in advance to prepare thoughtful responses and also answered blind questions submitted by the audience.
This event provided a valuable opportunity to share ideas and priorities. Thank you to the Inspire 158 volunteers and to Mike Fleck for moderating.
March 19, 2025
Melissa attended the HEA/HESPA Candidate Forum hosted by the D158 unions, where each candidate answered ten predetermined questions along with three from the public. The forum provided a valuable opportunity for the community to gain insight into each candidate’s priorities and vision.
Melissa approached the forum with honesty and sincerity, sharing her thoughts, ideas, and hopes for the district. She emphasized her genuine care for students, staff, and the overall well-being of the community, ensuring that her campaign remains free of personal or political agendas. Her focus is solely on fostering a positive and supportive environment for education.
February 26, 2025
Melissa attended a monthly meeting hosted by the Huntley Area Dems and appreciates the invitation and opportunity to speak with their members and answer questions. The discussion was engaging, respectful, and insightful. Thank you for the warm welcome and support!
March 15, 2025
Thanks to the efforts of Candidates for All Kids, Melissa attended the Huntley Community Expo, where she had the opportunity to connect and engage with community stakeholders. It was a busy and productive day filled with honest, casual, and insightful conversations—sharing ideas, answering questions, and listening to concerns. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who stopped by booth #40 to learn more about the candidates running for the school board.
No McHenry County or Grafton Township GOP Engagement Opportunities available.