2017 Election Questionnaire: Vickie Sutterlin, Valley View School Board

Name: Vickie Sutterlin

Age: 65

Town of residence: Village of Bolingbrook

Position sought: Valley View District School Board

Family:

I am married and have one child. My daughter had attended the Valley View School District in the first grade and continued on until she graduated from BHS.

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

Education:

I have a BA in Education from Northeastern Illinois University with dual certification in Elementary Ed. K-9 and Emotionally and Socially Maladjusted K-12. I acquired an additional certification in Learning Disabilities K-12.

I hold a MA in Education from Aurora University with over 40 hours beyond the masters which included hours in gifted, reading, cultural awareness, classroom management and working with parents to name a few.

Occupation: Retired teacher from Valley View School District with 37 years experience.

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Position: Past appointment to Bolingbrook's Civic and Cultural Affair Commission.

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

I believe that one of the most pressing issues facing our Board is the lack of state funding and in spite of that, being able to provide the best education for all children in order to meet the demands of the 21st century. I intend as a member of the Board to continue the practice of being fiscally responsible by asking questions and doing research to determine if the project or proposal is cost effective and will bring about the desired outcome. Also, I would look into other means of funding programs or projects such as finding grant monies. I believe in supporting programs that will prepare our children for the future which can be done through common sense financial practices. I want to make sure that the money is well spent.

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

I have lived in Bolingbrook for over 30 years, taught for 37 years and sent my child through the District's educational system. I have been involved in the community and in the school district having sat on academic committees, safety committees, budget committees, book program adoption, report card and calendar committees to name a few. I have been directly involved in several initiatives in the District and instrumental in the development and deliverance of special education programs. Another attribute that I have, is the ability in writing grants and programs. I have also served in leadership roles that have provided me with insight as to the challenges facing a unit district.

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

The reason I am for running for the school board is because I believe I can be a valuable asset to the Board.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform:

I look at the workload plaguing the teachers due to state and federal mandates and would like to find ways to support them and possibly initiate some changes that would still be within the mandates of the law.

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

Having the opportunity to see growth in learning for all children would determine how successful I have been. Also, being able to live within a fiscally sound budget and still provide the best education for all children, through the different academic programs, availability of after school activities and ensuring that the staff receives the support and resources that they need to achieve this outcome, Also, being able to provide up-to-date technology in order to compete in the 21st century.

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

I have learned over the years in my personal life, in my career as a teacher and in leadership roles that it is important to listen, ask questions and to look at all sides of the story before making a decision or determination. It isn't always what it appears to be at the surface level, but you need to dig a little deeper to understand the whole picture.

Why should voters trust you?

I am a person who believes in doing the right thing. I can be trusted with confidential information and that I always try to find a solution to a problem.

Share a quote that defines your philosophy:

There are many quotes that define my philosophy, but one of them I will share is If something is worth doing, then it's worth doing well. I believe that if you are committed to doing something whether it is a simple task or a major project you need to put all your effort into it. That!s how I feel if I am elected to the School Board, I will give it my all.

Another quote that serves me well, is the old adage that it takes a whole village to raise a child. I believe through listening, discussion and collaboration with the different stake holders, this can be accomplished. I plan on being accessible and visible throughout the District.

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

Questions that always come to mind are what kind of impact will something have on the children and the staff, how much will it cost, how will the outcome be measured and will an effective outcome outweigh any disruptions or changes? Also, can it be done in another way or can we improve on the existing program? In addition, will the staff be trained properly and what will be deleted so their isn't any duplications or a work overload?

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

As I have mentioned before, I believe that a school board is given the task and responsibility of spending tax dollars wisely. I believe the school board makes those determinations, through questions, research and listening to those who will be directly affected.

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

I believe my 37 years spent in the classroom, my time spent on many district and building level committees, and the leadership roles that I have taken on have prepared me for this position, I have seen first hand the challenges that face the District, those who work with the children directly and indirectly as well as the challenges that face members of the community.

The best advice ever shared with me was ...

One of the best advice that I have received is to not to sweat the small stuff and to look at the bigger picture. You can't get it all done in one day, so just try to do the best you can.

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

I have a willingness to work collaboratively, but I am also an individual that will voice strong opinions. I have the children's best interest at heart as well as the community regardless of whether or not they have students in our schools. Also, I want to provide a conducive working environment for all staff and employees of the District that continues to provide training, resources and support.

More via Sutterlin's campaign website.

Photo submitted