Stevenson School Board Candidate: Terry Moons

Name: Terry C. Moons

Age: 68

Town: Buffalo Grove

Incumbent? Yes. I was appointed to the board in 1985.

Family: Married to Gerard M. Moons; three married children, Nicholas & Laura, David & Lisa, Daniel & Amanda; one granddaughter

Occupation: Legislative Aide to State Representative Sidney Mathias

Community Involvement: SouthLake Advisory Council for College of Lake County; Temple Chai Sisterhood Board of Directors

Link to campaign website or Facebook page: United4Stevenson.org

Why are you running for a School Board position?

I would like to help solve the new challenges the Board of Education faces in the areas of fiscal restraint, possible forced consolidation and continued student achievement.

What are the key issues that the district will have to address in the next four years?

The District faces identified declining enrollment, pressure from the state to consolidate with other districts, rising costs in utilities, supporting services and energy, and sustaining the high level of student achievement.

What are your top three priorities as a board member?

My top three priorities as a board member are continued fiscal responsibility in light of declining enrollment, continuing high level of academic achievement and continued proven leadership for the District.

What are some of the district’s strengths?

The strengths of Stevenson High School are the faculty and staff, supportive community in which we live and the dedication for learning of our students.

What do you think could be done to improve the district?

The district needs to do three things better; tell our amazing story of students and faculty to the community, continue to trim costs without diminishing services and increase communication with parents.

What role should the School Board play in shaping Stevenson’s curriculum?

The School Board sets policy for the District and hires the Superintendent. The School Board does not determine curriculum. Professional educators are hired to determine and implement curriculum. The State of Illinois sets curriculum guidelines for all schools; Stevenson develops its curriculum in accordance with state guide lines. At nearly every meeting, the Board has a report from a team
of teachers on a part of the curriculum. Every discipline has its hour to shine as we are informed about a new technique or best practice that helps student learn.

What are your thoughts on the district’s financial state?

Stevenson High School is in an excellent financial position. The district received a Bond Rating of AAA from Standard and Poors, one of only four districts in Illinois to receive it. The District currently has healthy fund balance which is the state recommended way to provide savings for emergencies.

What distinguishes you from the rest of the School Board candidates?

I have been a member of the Board of Education for the past 25 years. I have what is known as ‘institutional memory’. I know where we have been, what worked and what did not, and I believe that I know the direction to take next. I have shown proven leadership on the board serving as secretary for the past 18 years. I serve as the chair person of the Site and Facilities Committee. I also serve on the Parking Committee, Green Sustainable Committee, and Health and Safety Committee.
Over the past 25 years, I have served on numerous Task Forces; this year I am serving on Co-Curricular Task Force. I am passionate, dedicated and knowledgeable about Stevenson High School.