North Cook News

James D'Angelo's run for the Deerfield School District 109 board is all about generating a united front for the community.

"The biggest issue facing our school board is a lack of trust and support from the community," D'Angelo told Patch.com. "For too long, parents and teachers alike have felt that the school board and administration don't truly support their interests. The pandemic has certainly brought this to the forefront for many people."

D'Angelo is hoping that's where his ABC Deerfield slate will come in. As one of eight candidates vying for four seats, he is hoping his message of transparency and accountability can resonate with the people he is seeking to deliver it to.

"A school board cannot lead a school district without community support," he said. "And without teacher support and involvement, our students suffer. Lack of trust and support from the community also makes small issues blow up into larger ones. When everyone is on edge, or when most of the community is unhappy with the direction of the school district, even small changes and minor problems will be met with uproar."

D'Angelo said honesty and transparency are the only way forward.

"Our school board must work with our new superintendent to earn the support and trust of parents and teachers," he added. "It won't be a quick or easy process, but it's vitally important for the long-term health of our school district."

D'Angelo said voters know they can trust him based on who he's always been.

"I've demonstrated that I'm not afraid to stand up for what I believe in and for what is clearly best for our students," he said. "When I saw how poorly our district was handling the pandemic this school year, I didn't stand back and wait for it to fix itself. Instead, I organized for change and fought tirelessly for what so many in our community desperately needed. I promise to continue advocating for our students."

A corporate attorney by trade, the 34-year-old D'Angelo resides in Deerfield with his wife and three young children.