FSD-157c School Board Election
April 1, 2025
|
This year, the FSD157C School Board election is uncontested, with three candidates running for three open seats. Here’s who is on the ballot:
· Paul Aleck (Current Member) · Ann Zaremba (Current Member) · Brad Nagel (New Candidate seeking to fill a vacated seat) The Family School Partnership (FSP) 157C reached out to all three candidates to help the community get to know them better and learn more about their goals and priorities for serving our schools. Whether you are new to the area or simply want to stay informed, we hope you find their insights valuable. Questions were provided by the FSP157C and below you will find responses from Paul Aleck, Ann Zaremba, and Brad Nagel. Thank you for being an engaged and supportive member of our community, and we encourage you to make your voice heard by getting out to vote. ~Family School Partnership (FSP) 157C |
2025 Candidate Questions & Answers
District 157-C families would love to get to know you better. Please tell us a little bit about yourself and your past and present involvement in the Frankfort community.
Paul Aleck - I grew up in Frankfort and a product of the Frankfort school district. My wife, Christie, and I have 3 children in the district (5th grade, 3rd grade, and kindergarten). Our family and business are very involved with philanthropy and involvement in the Frankfort community for example Falcons Football, Frankfort baseball and softball, Frankfort Chamber of Commerce, Frankfort Park District, Frankfort Police and Fire, St. Peters School, and Frankfort 157-C education foundation. As an incumbent candidate, I am extremely honored to help 157-C continue to be a top tier district in the state.
Ann Zaremba - Our family moved to Frankfort 14 years ago, before our oldest child started kindergarten. We chose Frankfort based on the quality and reputation of District 157-C. Now that our children are 17 (Junior at LW East), 14 (Freshman at LW East), 13 (7 th Grade at Hickory Creek), and 11 (5 th Grade at Chelsea), we know firsthand that the superior reputation of 157-C is well-deserved.
My husband Jack and I are both practicing attorneys. Jack practices criminal defense in Joliet. In August of 2024, I joined the Joliet law firm of Mahoney, Silverman & Cross, LLC to practice law full-time, focusing primarily on commercial real estate and corporate matters.
We are members of Christ Lutheran in Orland Park, where we attend as a family and find the Saturday night service a family ritual. We try to enjoy family dinners in between basketball, baseball and soccer games and in the rare “off season”, our family enjoys vacationing in Disney World.
Over the last four years, I have had the honor of serving as a board member for District 157-C, and on behalf of 157-C as a governing board member to LWASE District 843. It has been a challenging, educational and rewarding experience, and I humbly look forward to serving the community for the next four years to the best of my ability.
Brad Nagel - My name is Brad Nagel, and I truly appreciate the opportunity to introduce myself. I personally believe we all have a vested interest in maintaining the success of our schools and want to sincerely applaud the previous work of the current board and leadership for effectively navigating challenges and well positioning us as an admired community. I’m excited to build on that successful foundation alongside our engaged students, parents, teachers, facility, and leadership.
My wife Dana & I have three young kids all within the district, which will soon be spread across all three schools. Recently reflecting upon the pandemic, we both witnessed firsthand just how important it was to keep schools open for our kids’ well-being and development. As a result, my wife has continued to be an active participant within our kids’ classrooms and engaged in the community. Which inspired me, as education has always been visible, growing up firsthand, seeing my hardworking aunt being a lifelong educator and now serving as a nearby principal.
Professionally, I’ve spent my career within the ‘people’ business, which has provided me with a strong understanding for identifying, hiring, growing, developing and retaining top talent as a competitive advantage. Which I believe is equally important and transferable inside our school system. I have faith in teamwork, communication & collaboration to build a strong culture and ensure every kid gets the best education experience possible.
What is your vision for the future of District 157-C schools over the next 3-5 years, and what specific goals would you prioritize to ensure student success?
Paul Aleck - I joined the board in spring of 2021 and our priorities at those times were navigating the Covid hurdles and getting back on track at post pandemic and completing the construction of the Chelsea project. With that in the rear-view mirror, my goals for the next few years are back in the classroom and activities. Our kids are the best and deserve the best. Maximizing resources for our schools while maintaining fiscal responsibility is a top priority.
Ann Zaremba - District 157-C enjoys a reputation of excellence in academics and other areas, however continuous improvement is always attainable. As an individual board member, it is important to acknowledge that it is not my vision, but the vision of school leaders in response to the community needs that will impact the goals set to ensure student success. As an observer and participant in the development of the Strategic Plan a few years ago (outlined on the 157-C website in the Strategic Planning section), I believe that prioritizing the specific goals in the five areas outlined in the plan has and will continue to ensure continued improvements and consistent student success over the next 3-5 years.
Brad Nagel - To continue the district’s tradition of educational excellence, while confidently preparing students for success inside and outside the classroom. Centered around:
• Keeping schools safe for all students and staff
• Hiring and retaining the best teachers and staff
• Incorporating life skills into education, recognizing our education system + parents all play key roles in shaping our kids’ future from an education, health and wellness standpoint
• Supporting teachers so they can teach effectively and give open feedback on individual student performance
How would you address the challenge of ensuring educational equity in our district, especially for students from diverse backgrounds or those with different learning needs?
Paul Aleck - I would ensure that 157-C continues to hire and retain high-quality teachers, counselors, and paraprofessionals. Our teachers should then incorporate diverse perspectives in their teaching to help the understanding of the children in that particular setting. Academic interventions for those students in need should be a priority.
Ann Zaremba - The challenges related to ensuring educational equity among a diverse student body with different learning needs include: 1) identifying a subset or group of students performing lower by a particular measurement; and 2) providing an appropriate resource to remove the disadvantage to that group of students. The administrators of District 157-C do an excellent job in continuously working through these challenges. It is the job of the School Board of 157-C hold the administrators accountable for this process and support them in obtaining resources to meet these challenges and provide an excellent education for every 157-C student.
Brad Nagel - Every student deserves the tools to succeed, no matter their individual situation or learning style. I think this can be accomplished by encouraging open conversations between parents and teachers to identify / address gaps. Early involvement and extra help for those students who may need it. Along with inclusive opportunities for special education programs.
What is your plan for supporting and retaining high-quality teachers in District 157-C, and how will you ensure they have the resources and professional development opportunities they need?
Paul Aleck - We just completed a new deal with the teachers in the spring and finished with a great package. The parent/teacher relationship helps retain good teachers and Frankfort families are very understanding, helpful, and cooperative with the 157-C staff. The board has continued to provide funds for all resources asked by the staff and budgets are set years in advance to make sure that needs are met and funds are available. Also, additional funds from the Frankfort Educational Foundation are a big help in providing equipment and materials to directly benefit the students through teacher written grants.
Ann Zaremba - Attracting, developing, supporting and retaining high quality teachers in 157-C is vital to the success of the students of the District, and is one of the five categories outlined in the Strategic Plan (outlined on the 157-C website in the Strategic Planning section). As a member of the Board, I support providing teachers with most competitive compensation package possible; provided it is within reasonably anticipated budgetary constraints that are fiscally responsible to taxpayers. The Board also takes actions to support the administration in all efforts to provide relevant professional development opportunities and create a desirable, positive work environment for all teachers and staff at 157-C.
Brad Nagel - Our teachers & students are at the core of our community’s future success, and we need to collaboratively support them. As a board collectively focusing on the following should put us in a position to employ the best. First, by listening to our teachers & supporting staff to understand what resources are additionally needed to do their jobs well. Institute strong processes and practices to identify top talent, with market competitive pay and benefits and having best in class facilities to attract / retain the best of the best.
How will you balance the budget to ensure that all students have access to a well-rounded education, including extracurricular activities, technology, and student support services?
Paul Aleck - 157-C has just rolled out a large list of extracurricular clubs and teams. All students will have the ability to join a club or team of their interest to maximize their school growth and this is thanks to the commitment from the Frankfort staff, the boards recognition of the importance of these activities, and the parents sacrificing or their time to allow their children to explore these options.
Ann Zaremba - As a Board member of District 157-C, I review all monthly financial reporting and spending from fund balances as compared to budget and prior year. When approving spending decisions, the Board considers and discusses all benefits of the spending to students while considering responsible budgetary constraints. Student support services, technology, and extracurricular activities are all a priority for spending, along with hiring and retaining high quality teachers. The Board also consistently encourages identifying cost-saving measures that will not compromise District goals for students, which allows the allocation of more resources to 157-C spending priorities.
Brad Nagel - Fiscally responsible planning is key to keeping our schools well positioned for the long term and ensuring spending is efficient, transparent and trackable. I’ll prioritize encouraging the funding of programs & initiatives which have a measurable impact on student development. While also ensuring safety measures are fully funded for everyone’s wellbeing. Also keeping a forward-looking eye on any creative grant / partnership opportunities to complement our school’s funding.
What steps will you take to improve communication and engagement with parents and the community to ensure transparency and collaboration in decision-making?
Paul Aleck - I will continue to engage with all parents regarding the schools. My number 1 priority is to be sounding board for the community. I encourage parents to attend the school board meetings if it fits their schedule.
Ann Zaremba - District 157-C has implemented the District Communication Plan (outlined on the website here), which was designed to provide timely, relevant and complete information to the various stakeholders within the community at appropriate times. As a board member, I support the collaboration of District 157-C teachers, staff and administration with parents whenever desirable for the benefit of students. I am also personally available at azaremba@fsd157c.org.
Brad Nagel - Based on my experience the best institutions have a consistent communication cadence resulting in a strong community connection. I’ll advocate for frequent parent engagement via opportunities to share feedback, ask questions and get involved. Also, transparent and timely updates from district leadership and the school board to ensure all consistently receive timely, accurate & personalized communications.
How do you plan to address the mental health and well-being needs of students, and what resources or programs do you see as essential to supporting their emotional development?
Paul Aleck - Developing self-awareness and coping skills with the assistance of our counseling staff will help the education of mental health and reduce its stigma at a young age. Of course, keeping a positive school climate and encouraging open communication with staff will ensure students feel valued.
Ann Zaremba - For a student to reach their full potential, positive mental and emotional development is a critical component. District 157-C has implemented a comprehensive social and emotional learning program for students (outlined on the website here), with focus on: 1) empathy, 2) healthy mindset, 3) recognizing bullying and harassment, 4) managing emotions, and 5) resolving social conflict. As a Board member, I believe meaningful mental and emotional development is critical to student success, and I support constant refinement of this programming as needs of students evolve with new challenges.
Brad Nagel - Students need to feel safe, supported, and prepared for the future, to then be able to positively contribute in our community. I’ll push for life skills education to help students grow into well-rounded individuals. Additionally, maintain a pulse on up-to-date data & trends to then allocate internal resources where needed to further promote physical and emotional health.
Paul Aleck - I grew up in Frankfort and a product of the Frankfort school district. My wife, Christie, and I have 3 children in the district (5th grade, 3rd grade, and kindergarten). Our family and business are very involved with philanthropy and involvement in the Frankfort community for example Falcons Football, Frankfort baseball and softball, Frankfort Chamber of Commerce, Frankfort Park District, Frankfort Police and Fire, St. Peters School, and Frankfort 157-C education foundation. As an incumbent candidate, I am extremely honored to help 157-C continue to be a top tier district in the state.
Ann Zaremba - Our family moved to Frankfort 14 years ago, before our oldest child started kindergarten. We chose Frankfort based on the quality and reputation of District 157-C. Now that our children are 17 (Junior at LW East), 14 (Freshman at LW East), 13 (7 th Grade at Hickory Creek), and 11 (5 th Grade at Chelsea), we know firsthand that the superior reputation of 157-C is well-deserved.
My husband Jack and I are both practicing attorneys. Jack practices criminal defense in Joliet. In August of 2024, I joined the Joliet law firm of Mahoney, Silverman & Cross, LLC to practice law full-time, focusing primarily on commercial real estate and corporate matters.
We are members of Christ Lutheran in Orland Park, where we attend as a family and find the Saturday night service a family ritual. We try to enjoy family dinners in between basketball, baseball and soccer games and in the rare “off season”, our family enjoys vacationing in Disney World.
Over the last four years, I have had the honor of serving as a board member for District 157-C, and on behalf of 157-C as a governing board member to LWASE District 843. It has been a challenging, educational and rewarding experience, and I humbly look forward to serving the community for the next four years to the best of my ability.
Brad Nagel - My name is Brad Nagel, and I truly appreciate the opportunity to introduce myself. I personally believe we all have a vested interest in maintaining the success of our schools and want to sincerely applaud the previous work of the current board and leadership for effectively navigating challenges and well positioning us as an admired community. I’m excited to build on that successful foundation alongside our engaged students, parents, teachers, facility, and leadership.
My wife Dana & I have three young kids all within the district, which will soon be spread across all three schools. Recently reflecting upon the pandemic, we both witnessed firsthand just how important it was to keep schools open for our kids’ well-being and development. As a result, my wife has continued to be an active participant within our kids’ classrooms and engaged in the community. Which inspired me, as education has always been visible, growing up firsthand, seeing my hardworking aunt being a lifelong educator and now serving as a nearby principal.
Professionally, I’ve spent my career within the ‘people’ business, which has provided me with a strong understanding for identifying, hiring, growing, developing and retaining top talent as a competitive advantage. Which I believe is equally important and transferable inside our school system. I have faith in teamwork, communication & collaboration to build a strong culture and ensure every kid gets the best education experience possible.
What is your vision for the future of District 157-C schools over the next 3-5 years, and what specific goals would you prioritize to ensure student success?
Paul Aleck - I joined the board in spring of 2021 and our priorities at those times were navigating the Covid hurdles and getting back on track at post pandemic and completing the construction of the Chelsea project. With that in the rear-view mirror, my goals for the next few years are back in the classroom and activities. Our kids are the best and deserve the best. Maximizing resources for our schools while maintaining fiscal responsibility is a top priority.
Ann Zaremba - District 157-C enjoys a reputation of excellence in academics and other areas, however continuous improvement is always attainable. As an individual board member, it is important to acknowledge that it is not my vision, but the vision of school leaders in response to the community needs that will impact the goals set to ensure student success. As an observer and participant in the development of the Strategic Plan a few years ago (outlined on the 157-C website in the Strategic Planning section), I believe that prioritizing the specific goals in the five areas outlined in the plan has and will continue to ensure continued improvements and consistent student success over the next 3-5 years.
Brad Nagel - To continue the district’s tradition of educational excellence, while confidently preparing students for success inside and outside the classroom. Centered around:
• Keeping schools safe for all students and staff
• Hiring and retaining the best teachers and staff
• Incorporating life skills into education, recognizing our education system + parents all play key roles in shaping our kids’ future from an education, health and wellness standpoint
• Supporting teachers so they can teach effectively and give open feedback on individual student performance
How would you address the challenge of ensuring educational equity in our district, especially for students from diverse backgrounds or those with different learning needs?
Paul Aleck - I would ensure that 157-C continues to hire and retain high-quality teachers, counselors, and paraprofessionals. Our teachers should then incorporate diverse perspectives in their teaching to help the understanding of the children in that particular setting. Academic interventions for those students in need should be a priority.
Ann Zaremba - The challenges related to ensuring educational equity among a diverse student body with different learning needs include: 1) identifying a subset or group of students performing lower by a particular measurement; and 2) providing an appropriate resource to remove the disadvantage to that group of students. The administrators of District 157-C do an excellent job in continuously working through these challenges. It is the job of the School Board of 157-C hold the administrators accountable for this process and support them in obtaining resources to meet these challenges and provide an excellent education for every 157-C student.
Brad Nagel - Every student deserves the tools to succeed, no matter their individual situation or learning style. I think this can be accomplished by encouraging open conversations between parents and teachers to identify / address gaps. Early involvement and extra help for those students who may need it. Along with inclusive opportunities for special education programs.
What is your plan for supporting and retaining high-quality teachers in District 157-C, and how will you ensure they have the resources and professional development opportunities they need?
Paul Aleck - We just completed a new deal with the teachers in the spring and finished with a great package. The parent/teacher relationship helps retain good teachers and Frankfort families are very understanding, helpful, and cooperative with the 157-C staff. The board has continued to provide funds for all resources asked by the staff and budgets are set years in advance to make sure that needs are met and funds are available. Also, additional funds from the Frankfort Educational Foundation are a big help in providing equipment and materials to directly benefit the students through teacher written grants.
Ann Zaremba - Attracting, developing, supporting and retaining high quality teachers in 157-C is vital to the success of the students of the District, and is one of the five categories outlined in the Strategic Plan (outlined on the 157-C website in the Strategic Planning section). As a member of the Board, I support providing teachers with most competitive compensation package possible; provided it is within reasonably anticipated budgetary constraints that are fiscally responsible to taxpayers. The Board also takes actions to support the administration in all efforts to provide relevant professional development opportunities and create a desirable, positive work environment for all teachers and staff at 157-C.
Brad Nagel - Our teachers & students are at the core of our community’s future success, and we need to collaboratively support them. As a board collectively focusing on the following should put us in a position to employ the best. First, by listening to our teachers & supporting staff to understand what resources are additionally needed to do their jobs well. Institute strong processes and practices to identify top talent, with market competitive pay and benefits and having best in class facilities to attract / retain the best of the best.
How will you balance the budget to ensure that all students have access to a well-rounded education, including extracurricular activities, technology, and student support services?
Paul Aleck - 157-C has just rolled out a large list of extracurricular clubs and teams. All students will have the ability to join a club or team of their interest to maximize their school growth and this is thanks to the commitment from the Frankfort staff, the boards recognition of the importance of these activities, and the parents sacrificing or their time to allow their children to explore these options.
Ann Zaremba - As a Board member of District 157-C, I review all monthly financial reporting and spending from fund balances as compared to budget and prior year. When approving spending decisions, the Board considers and discusses all benefits of the spending to students while considering responsible budgetary constraints. Student support services, technology, and extracurricular activities are all a priority for spending, along with hiring and retaining high quality teachers. The Board also consistently encourages identifying cost-saving measures that will not compromise District goals for students, which allows the allocation of more resources to 157-C spending priorities.
Brad Nagel - Fiscally responsible planning is key to keeping our schools well positioned for the long term and ensuring spending is efficient, transparent and trackable. I’ll prioritize encouraging the funding of programs & initiatives which have a measurable impact on student development. While also ensuring safety measures are fully funded for everyone’s wellbeing. Also keeping a forward-looking eye on any creative grant / partnership opportunities to complement our school’s funding.
What steps will you take to improve communication and engagement with parents and the community to ensure transparency and collaboration in decision-making?
Paul Aleck - I will continue to engage with all parents regarding the schools. My number 1 priority is to be sounding board for the community. I encourage parents to attend the school board meetings if it fits their schedule.
Ann Zaremba - District 157-C has implemented the District Communication Plan (outlined on the website here), which was designed to provide timely, relevant and complete information to the various stakeholders within the community at appropriate times. As a board member, I support the collaboration of District 157-C teachers, staff and administration with parents whenever desirable for the benefit of students. I am also personally available at azaremba@fsd157c.org.
Brad Nagel - Based on my experience the best institutions have a consistent communication cadence resulting in a strong community connection. I’ll advocate for frequent parent engagement via opportunities to share feedback, ask questions and get involved. Also, transparent and timely updates from district leadership and the school board to ensure all consistently receive timely, accurate & personalized communications.
How do you plan to address the mental health and well-being needs of students, and what resources or programs do you see as essential to supporting their emotional development?
Paul Aleck - Developing self-awareness and coping skills with the assistance of our counseling staff will help the education of mental health and reduce its stigma at a young age. Of course, keeping a positive school climate and encouraging open communication with staff will ensure students feel valued.
Ann Zaremba - For a student to reach their full potential, positive mental and emotional development is a critical component. District 157-C has implemented a comprehensive social and emotional learning program for students (outlined on the website here), with focus on: 1) empathy, 2) healthy mindset, 3) recognizing bullying and harassment, 4) managing emotions, and 5) resolving social conflict. As a Board member, I believe meaningful mental and emotional development is critical to student success, and I support constant refinement of this programming as needs of students evolve with new challenges.
Brad Nagel - Students need to feel safe, supported, and prepared for the future, to then be able to positively contribute in our community. I’ll push for life skills education to help students grow into well-rounded individuals. Additionally, maintain a pulse on up-to-date data & trends to then allocate internal resources where needed to further promote physical and emotional health.
