John Gawel running for North Palos School Board

Why I am running for the North Palos School Board

The upcoming election day will determine some significant positions for our local North Palos District 117 school board. Our local school board is responsible for setting and evaluating short and long-term goals, establishing policies, designating and evaluating the superintendent, reviewing the budget, approving recommended curriculum, adopting contractual agreements with staff, determining school facilities needs as well as many other essential functions necessary to sustain our K-8 grade schools, staff, parents, and most importantly our students. As such, board members need to have a strong interest in and passion for education. Additionally, an individual that is invested in our community's success. Solid and successful schools are an important part of a safe and thriving community. In making these statements I respectfully ask for your help in electing me, John Gawel, to the District 117 school board.

My wife and I are both passionate educators. I have been teaching special education in a neighboring middle school for the past 21 years. Being a veteran educator, I have some guiding belief principles that have been the foundation of my professional career. One of these principles is that every student should have an educational experience that supports their whole development. Also, students should be engaged in a rigorous curriculum and instruction that best supports their education, and parent involvement in education is a critical piece to the success plan of all of our students. I have dedicated my life to this field because I care deeply about the opportunities that a quality education can provide.

About Me

I was raised in Palos Hills, and my wife Christine and I are proud to be raising our two children here as well. Our son, Jack, graduated from Conrady in 2021, and he is a sophomore at Stagg High School. Our daughter, Adeline, is currently in 8th grade at Conrady Jr. High. Both Christine and I enjoy supporting our children in their extracurricular activities. Our family time is often spent watching our son play tennis or perform in Stagg's marching band and cheering on our daughter at her swim meets and volleyball games.

Community Volunteer

My wife and I are not just passionate about educating others, we are also passionate about helping others. I was a member of the Lions Club (Oak Lawn and Burbank) for 15 years. During these years of service, I was president of the Burbank Lions Club for 4 years and served in many other leadership roles. I started and chaired a golf outing which became the primary revenue source for the club. This revenue allowed us to extend the scope of our services to the Burbank community and beyond. I also devoted my time to St. Baldricks for many years by networking with numerous community businesses to generate donations for this worthy cause. I believe that serving others forms stronger community bonds which ultimately benefits everyone. It would be an honor to serve on the board of North Palos School District 117