District 15 School Board Candidate: Margaret (Peggy) Babcock

Name Margaret (Peggy) Babcock

How long have you been a resident of District 15? 30+ years.

Biographical Information (optional) family, profession, background, etc.

Married to husband  John for 32 years. Son Jake a graduate of Districts 15 and 211 and currently a successful college freshman. Decades of experience in community service working in many capacities with cancer patients and their families, through Northwest Community Hospital and the American Cancer Society.

Why are you running for the District 15 board?

I believe that each of us has the choice to be part of the problem or work together towards a common goal and be part of the solution.  Our current board has made strides moving forward addressing administrative stability, fiscal responsibility and successful contract negotiations.  There is work to be done and I would like to continue to be part of what we have started.

What is your opinion on the Early Start/Late Release issue? 

This was a concept mutually agreed upon by the CTC and the BOE effective 8/13.  At the March BOE meeting the board will be presented the current status of the work of the committee.  The presentation will be posted for the community and a final decision should be reached at the April meeting.

What is your opinion on the possible outsourcing of bus services in District 15?

The board is currently in ongoing negotiations with the DTU.  I am confident that whatever decision is reached, it will be one of cooperation, compromise and fiscal responsibility, with the safety of our students paramount.

What, if any, improvements would you like to see in the way the board is run?

Respect and trust are key to working through issues and becoming a highly functioning board.  I continue to believe that each board member brings value to every discussion.  It is imperative that each board member knows their responsibilities/limitations of the job.  There is one board comprised of 7 members, with one employee … the superintendent.  Elections don’t guarantee success and majorities/minorities don’t exist on successful boards.

Additional comments and/or information you deem important for District 15 voters to know about you.

• Worked at Allstate Life Insurance Co., Northbrook, IL.  Achieved Fellowship in Life Management Institute, specializing in Personnel Administration.
• Secretary, District 15 Educational Foundation
• Secretary D15 Board of Education, attained Master Board Status
• Over 20 years serving cancer patients and their families through Northwest Community Hospital and the American Cancer Society.

Experience is a great teacher. I would like to bring continued experience to the board. I encourage you to vote April 9.