2017 Election Questionnaire: Dave Secrest​​​, D155 School Board

Name: Dave Secrest

Age: 72

Town of residence: Crystal Lake

Position Sought: Community School District #155 School Board

Family:

Married-43yrs;
5 grown children all of whom went to D155 school;
6 grandchildren who are or will be going to D#47 & D#155 schools

Education:

B.S.in Education
M.S. in Educational Administration

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office: Current D#155 Board Member

The single most pressing issue facing our (board, district, etc.) is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it: In no particular order: 1. Reduction in student population; 2. Funding; 2. Teacher Association contract and 4. Relevant curriculum. These are all major issues that will require long range planning and solutions. Input from the community, parents, educational administrators, and at times students, will be required. There are no quick, simple, or easy answers to these issues.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?: My experience as a Board Member and my educational background. Three of the current Board Members have less then two years experience and at least two new members will be joining the Board. It is important to have a voice of experience and continuity on the Board.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)?: The current Board has not failed either the community or its students. D#155 and it's students are regularly recognized for their success by national publications such as the Washington Post, Newsweek, and US News and World Report.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform: Fiscal responsibility - including a flat levy in 2015 and rebating $6.5 million dollars in property taxes to the tax payer over a 3 year period of time; maintaining and promoting a progressive curriculum for all students.

If you gain this position, what accomplishment would define your term in office as a success?: Maintaining a successful district while finding solutions to the four major items detailed above. Continue to be fiscally responsible.

Please share with voters a story about wisdom gained from a mistake you made in your life or career: While being a team player, I have learned that you must rely upon yourself and take personal responsibility for decisions that are made.

Why should voters trust you?: Over the years I have proven to be responsible, fair, and trustworthy to all the constituents of District 155.

Share a quote that defines your philosophy: When confronted with problems I try and erase "a line drawn in the sand" and find solutions that are fair and equitable to the district, the community, the students, and parents.

Explain your attitudes toward fiscal policy, government spending and how taxpayer dollars should be handled by your office (or board)?: In my judgement property taxes are not the way to fund education. That said, I clearly understand that as a board member it is my responsibility to prudently levy and spend tax payer dollars. I have and will continue to do this. I will continue to be a voice for educational funding reform particularly as it relates to property taxes.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?: The best advice ever shared with me was ...

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?: I bring experience and knowledge of both the school district and of the responsibilities of a board member without having a personal agenda to promote.

Photo via Shutterstock