North Cook News

Ryan Valan, like most parents, likes to do what he can to make sure his children have the best chance in life that they can. Part of that includes running for a seat on the school board of the Orland School District 135.

"I’ve got two children in the school district and I am the type of person that believes in doing everything I can for my children and our community,” Valan told the North Cook News. “I want to be a part of what's happening, and I want to make sure the board continues in a positive direction by making sure that education continues to be first.”

With his background in real estate and owning a small business, Valan said, “I already do a lot of community work and I feel I can offer a small business approach to the board from the perspective of someone that only wants what's truly best for the community.”

Valan is a member of the 135 United slate of candidates. The group is soliciting donations. 

135 United slate mate Patti Thanos wrote the following on Give Send Go. 

“Hello family, friends and neighbors, I'm running for a seat on the Orland D135 School Board. I am a resident of Orland Park for 25 years. My children attended D135. We had many great experiences. Now it is time to give back. I have interacted with many great teachers, administrators and staff over the years, many of whom are still there. The success of our children is my number one priority. I will include the parents. I will be transparent. I will be an advocate for students and parents. My goal is for students to gain the skills necessary to be successful in life and live to their highest potential with the best education possible,” Thanos wrote. 

Valan's LinkedIn page notes he is a Consultant at Vallcor Inc. based in Orland Park. 

His Facebook page showcases his young family, including children who attend local schools. His son, 8, is in third grade, and his daughter, 5, is ready to start kindergarten. 

“I want to make sure they are in a good environment when they go to school,” Valan said. “I feel (every) child in this community deserves the best there is to give when it comes to getting their education.”

Orland School District 135 has 5,210 students enrolled in its 10 schools. The district headquarters is located at 15100 S 94th Ave. in Orland Park. The school system employs around 396 teachers, letting it maintain a 13-to-1 student-teacher ratio.