Lake County Gazette

James D'Angelo feels like he's already in the job of serving on the Deerfield School District 109 Board of Education.

"I founded and led Deerfield for In-Person Schooling (DIPS), which was a parent group dedicated to getting our kids back in school as quickly and safely as possible during the 2020-2021 school year," D'Angelo told Patch.com. "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. 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."

As one of eight candidates competing for four seats in the April 6 faceoff, the 34-year-old D'Angelo corporate attorney sees the chaos and distrust brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic as the biggest issue facing the community.

"For too long, parents and teachers alike have felt that the School Board and Administration doesn't truly support their interests," he added. "The pandemic has certainly brought this to the forefront for many people. A school board cannot lead a school district without community support. 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."

As a start in making things right, D'Angelo said the board needs to improve its communications among those it is supposed to be serving.

"The School Board must give more advanced notice about its plans, particularly with respect to its public meetings," he said. "For example, when significant proposals are being discussed at a board meeting, the community needs more than one business day to prepare. Additionally, more details must be provided ahead of time so the community can adequately participate in the process.