campaign info:

• Position sought: Ridgeland Dist. 122 Board of Education member.
• E-mail address: msawicki82@hotmail.com
• Phone: 708-819-0651
• Town: Oak Lawn

PERSONAL INFO:

• Age: 40
• Family: Christine (wife), Sean (son) 8, Carly (daughter), 6, and Ryan (son) 2.
• Education: B.A., Illinois State University; M.S. Florida State University

•  Occupation: Forecast Analyst

•  Political party affiliation, if any: Independent

•  Previous elected offices: N/A

candidate questions:

What is the primary reason you are running for this office? As a veteran of the Gulf War, I understand the value of public service.  Two of my children are students in District 122 and I am dedicated to providing them and all other students with the best education possible.  As a member of District 122’s School Board, I would work to continue the high standards the district has already put in place.

What will be your single most important priority if you get elected?  To ensure that District 122 continues to provide a quality education for all students while maintaining proper fiscal discipline.

What sets you apart from the other candidates, if contested? Professionally, I have managed both government and private sector budgets.  In doing so, I have been responsible for controlling expenses and making cost cutting decisions while ensuring that services were not negatively impacted.  While working at OfficeMax, my responsibilities included managing their budget and staffing levels for their call centers.  In my current position at Discover Financial Services, I have similar responsibilities.  I would bring this dedication to service and budget experience to the District.

How long have you lived in Dist. 122? My family and I moved into the district seven years ago - the same time our daughter was born.  Prior to this, we lived in Evergreen Park.

What's your favorite thing about Dist. 122? I have been impressed with the dedication of both staff and administration in District 122.  Two of my three children currently attend Columbus Manor and my oldest son has attended Harnew.  At both schools, the teachers and staff were committed to understanding each student, learning what motivates them and working hard to ensure they reach their maximum potential.

What is the biggest problem in Dist. 122? The main concern for District 122, at this time, is financial.  We are living in an economically challenging time and it is imperative that the District not make cuts that have an adverse effect on students, but at the same time, exercise fiscal responsibility and be accountable to the tax payers and community.