2017 Election Questionnaire: Charlotte Droogan, Valley View School District

Name: Charlotte Droogan

Age: 74

Town of residence: Bolingbrook

Position sought: school board member

Family:

5 children, 12 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren

Oldest 54 (son) Youngest 2 (great grandson)
Not enough room for all the names and ages

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?: no

Education:

bachelor's degree in elementary education

master's degree in counseling

40 graduate hours beyond master's degree focusing on children at risk

Occupation: retired third grade teacher

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Position: none

The single most pressing issue facing our (board, district, etc.) is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

The reasons behind our school district's rather interesting reputation. It seems like hearing about two different entities. Some who sing it's praises and are very happy with their children's education and others who are moving or homeschooling their children because of intolerable situations. I would like to get to the bottom of that and make appropriate improvements, so no family feels like they have to move away from a town they love, to ensure their child receives an appropriate education.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

With the exception of one candidate, I do not know any of the other people running for the four board seats. My first job will be to get to know the people currently on the board and not up for re-election and then the other people that get elected on April 4th. I am a very open person and am a team player, so knowing how every one operates will be very important to me. Hopefully other people on the board will be as
concerned about the school district's reputation as I am.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)?

Based on the above comments, I would think people, other than myself would be aware of this problem , and working toward a solution. But at this point I am not willing to jump to conclusions about other people's motives or commitment to the school district.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform:

I am interested in beefing up our music and arts programs. I see cuts in these areas as a detriment to our children's well- rounded education

I want to see children who are above grade level, but not in Challenge having access to a pull -out program or other vehicle for more stimulating classwork.

I want children with special needs to have their issues addressed in a more timely fashion.

I would like to pilot a dual language program in at least one school.

If you gain this position, what accomplishment would define your term in office as a success?

A smooth running board where members are working together to provide policies that insure children and staff are being supported in positive ways. I believe we can accomplish this together and we will have a school system that we can all be proud of.

Please share with voters a story about wisdom gained from a mistake you made in your life or career.

Always taking care of other people's needs before taking care of myself. I no longer put myself last. My life is much more balanced. I am not afraid to say "NO" to outrageous demands. As the harried waitress said to the annoying customer, "Not my table, Hon."

Why should voters trust you?

I have a reputation in the community of being honest, speaking my mind and fighting for what I feel is right. I am not someone who is easily pushed around However, I believe in everyone's right to an opinion and respect people who disagree openly and honestly. I feel most people have good intentions and am a good listener. I am a team player and will work very hard educating myself and representing the community .

Share a quote that defines your philosophy:

"Do unto others as you would have them do unto you"

What questions should be asked of current government employees accountable to your board?

Tell me your goals.
Show me evidence of accomplishment.
How is this school district better this year than last?
What do you see for the future?
What excites you?

Explain your attitudes toward fiscal policy, government spending and how taxpayer dollars should be handled by your office (or board)?

Don't spend money you don't have.
Make sure you have a rainy day fund.
Shop around for the best deal.
Don't do business with your friends.
Be open and above board with the taxpayers.
Take care of the children, teachers and staff first.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

Experience on other boards.(Past president of two boards)
College student with a full time job and five young children.(1970's)
I have a very busy life and have managed to do most things I feel are important.

The best advice ever shared with me was ...

Encourage everybody to be their "best selves."

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I will learn what I need to know to be a responsible board member. I will always be accessible to the taxpayers, parents and teachers. I will do the best I can to listen to people's concerns.

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