2017 Election Questionnaire: Edward McNally, District 303 School Board

Name: Edward McNally

Age: 54

Town of residence: St. Charles

Position sought: School Board Member, St. Charles District 303

Party affiliation: Independent

Family:

Wife - Lisa
Children - Eddie 12, Owen 11, Annie 7

Education: Dual Bachelor's Degree - Accounting/Athletic Training, Master's work in Biology/Physiology

Occupation: High School Teacher - 27 years

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office: Sitting D303 Board Member

The single most pressing issue facing our (board, district, etc.) is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it: Transitions - Consolidation of Haines and Thompson into a single downtown middle school campus is the most apparent issue facing the board, but it is a bellwether of the larger issue of right-sizing the district. We have seen a decline in population at our schools, with a slight upward bump this past year. Discussions about school closures resulted in the decision to move to a two middle school district. Population needs to be monitored in the coming years to determine what the needs are for the district. We will also have a new superintendent, and we will need to work for a smooth transition as he is stepping into a situation in the midst of these issues.

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

I am able to see issues from more angles than most. I view decisions not just as a citizen, parent, or taxpayer, but as a teacher, former business owner and experienced board member as well. My degree in Accounting is also helpful in this regard. Having been a teacher since 1989, I have a unique perspective on the practicality of proposed ideas.

I have shown during my time on the board my willingness to attend all special meetings, often being the last person to leave in order to hear the perspectives of those who have taken the time to attend these meetings as well.

Fiscal Responsibility - We need to balance high-quality, efficient education with fiscal responsibility to the community that largely funds that education.
Sound Educational Decisions - The most critical assets required for solid education are competent teachers and motivated students. We have these in D303. We need to provide the support necessary for academic success.
Transparency - Stakeholders need adequate time and complete information in order to understand policy ramifications.

Please share with voters a story about wisdom gained from a mistake you made in your life or career: What comes to mind with this question is missed opportunities. I think we all consider how our lives might have been altered had we chosen a different path or pursued another career. Certainly it could be considered a "mistake" to not continue pursuing my own business. But I may not have met my wife nor ended up in St. Charles with the children I have. It is a "mistake" I am glad to have made; it allows me to see the blessings I have.

Why should voters trust you?: I would hope that the last four years, my outspokenness in both opposition and support of district initiatives, have shown that I am willing to speak out unreservedly on behalf of constituents. I have made myself available to all within the district, and have fairly presented their views to the larger board. I have made efforts to reach out to the community as well, seeking their input whenever possible.

Share a quote that defines your philosophy: "If you have an important point to make, don't try to be subtle or clever. Use a pile driver. Hit the point once. Then come back and hit it again. Then hit it a third time - a tremendous whack." ~ Winston Churchill

I try to be forthright and direct in my approach, and hope for the same from other board members. I think it is essential for everyone to clearly articulate their ideas in order for an organization to remain effective and avoid stagnation. Healthy discussion and disagreement are often necessary to arrive at the best decision possible.

What questions should be asked of current government employees accountable to your board?: For each decision made, the questions should be asked: "What are the benefits to the stakeholders of this district?" "Is this a necessary expenditure?" "Is there a more efficient way to accomplish this?"

Explain your attitudes toward fiscal policy, government spending and how taxpayer dollars should be handled by your office (or board)?: We need to always be aware that we are spending other people’s money. We need to be acutely aware of the difference between wants and needs, and the relative benefit to the district and community as we contemplate each expenditure. Spending should take into account all stakeholders – students, teachers, families, community and taxpayers.

The overarching theme is cost/benefit analysis tempered with an understanding of educational efficacy. In short, "If I were making this decision for my own children, with my own money, would I view this as a good expenditure?"

The best advice ever shared with me was: “You can’t learn with your mouth open.”

This advice was given by my Mother, and I try to keep it in mind as I discuss items at the board table, and when I engage members of the community in conversation about issues facing the school board.

D-303 has the two critical assets for success - solid teachers and motivated students. We need to provide the tools necessary for them to excel. My background in education and in business, with a mind toward fiscal prudence, make me uniquely suited for this position

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?: I take each decision seriously and try to weigh the impact on all parties involved. It is important to take the time to hear the perspective of others, in the hope of arriving at solutions that can provide the greatest benefit to the most people. I remember that we are providing a necessary public service. With the budgetary (and other) difficulties imposed upon us from external sources, we need to do so with the greatest efficiency possible so as to ease the burden here.

D-303 has the two critical assets for success - solid teachers and motivated students. We need to provide the tools necessary for them to excel. My background in education and in business, with a mind toward fiscal prudence, make me uniquely suited for this position.

More via Edward McNally's campaign website.

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