Candidate: Shannon Adcock

Tell us about your high school experience. What clubs or activities were you involved in?

My high school experience was extremely transformative. I went from an 8th-grade grammar school class of 28 kids to a freshman class of 500. It was an all-girls liberal arts school on the south side of Chicago; all races and creeds attended. We wore uniforms and each grade had its own plaid. The plethora of academic and enrichment activities allowed me to gain confidence and build amazing friendships. I was involved in chorus, theater, honor society, and S.A.D.D. Theater, especially, was one of the most influential experiences of my high school years. It gave me skills I still use today. I felt fully prepared to attend college thanks to all of my high school experiences.

As of March 5, Metea had the highest number of positive COVID-19 cases in the school district. How would you help reduce the transmission and keep students safe?

30 reported cases at MVHS since October out of a student body of almost 3,000 is proof that mitigation is working and transmission is reduced. Much like other illnesses such as norovirus/stomach flu, seasonal flu, and colds, we know that washing hands and staying home when sick helps reduce transmission of viruses. As a community, these efforts are in place and should continue. The board should absolutely be in regular discussion about any precautions that will keep our IPSD 204 community safe.

There has been discussion in the district about culturally responsive pedagogy. What steps should the district take to achieve equitable outcomes for all of its students?

The district should follow the district’s mission of inspiring all students to achieve their greatest potential, which is different from everyone having the same outcome. Every student should be inspired to find their own path rather than presume each of them has to follow the exact same way of life after high school. Each student’s outcome should be a result of equal opportunities during their 204 experience. The district should always be available to advocate for any student or staffer who is concerned about inequitable opportunities.

What are the district’s biggest strengths and the biggest weaknesses?

IPSD 204 is a committed community of educators, families, and volunteers that want the best for our students. We retain teachers and staff year after year. Our students have access to exceptional programs that encompass academics, fine arts, and athletics. IPSD 204 has involved PTAs that represent all facets of our student body. Not to mention, the district students are pretty awesome! Our district can improve on the transparency of district-wide governance and collaborative communication with all district stakeholders.

What is your vision for high school students?

Students should be given every opportunity to build confidence and empowerment in who they are and who they want to be during their high school years. They should complete their time at 204 ready and inspired to reach their greatest potential. Whether it is in continued education, a trade, volunteerism, military, vocation, and/or the workforce, our high school students should feel empowered and excited for their next steps.

What makes you different from all the other candidates?

I am the only candidate who will have children at each level of IPSD 204 education during the four-year term: elementary, middle, and high-school. My goal is to bring a parent perspective and bridge the communication gaps between the community and the board. I am the only mother running for the board who operates her own company while raising three children full-time. I am ready to take on this role and serve in trust for students and the community!