April 29, 2022 Koppers Campaign Newsletter
Kristen Koppers for Regional Superintedent of Schools
This morning I listened to WJOL (Joliet) during “Slocum in the Morning” as I do every day traveling to work. By chance, the guest was Dr. Shawn Walsh, Regional Superintendent of Schools in Will County. He was asked about school safety, specifically the recent “mandates” that came from the state into the local schools. According to Dr. Walsh, the general assembly (the House and the Senate) will pass a bill and then the Governor will sign it. If they need to implement a policy, it will be sent to the school districts.
Like many of us who became instant lawyers in the state of Illinois during the summer of 2020, we know this is true. However, this is not what happened in the middle of March 2020. In fact, one important step was skipped, specifically relating to the one about the general assembly passing a bill before it reaches the Governor. This seems like an important legal step that should not have been dismissed so easily.
We cannot get back the time we lost, the jobs that were taken away, the businesses that had to close down, or the education the students lost out on for almost two years. Yet, it still angers me to know that as a parent and taxpayer, like many across the state, we knew better.
Despite the fact that we cannot change the time to travel back to pre-2020, it was a lesson well learned. While the lesson was harsh and severe, it set me on the path to realizing that the elected officials who we voted in and trusted did not do their diligent duty.
As we move into May, we have a chance now to elect those who will support us, our rights, and our kids’ education. Even though it took a lab-created virus to open our eyes, they are now W I D E open.
There are only 59 more days until the June primary and only 20 more days until early voting. It’s time to see the hard work candidates have been putting in since January 13. We have one chance to fix Illinois and the public educational system. We need YOUR help to make this happen.
Family is one of the most important parts of my life right now. When I started focusing on the election, I gave up (like many candidates) times with them to meet people, plan events, make phone calls, send out emails, prepare paperwork, and get signatures. I knew that what I was doing was going to make a difference in the communities and schools within Grundy and Kendall Counties.
It is without question that I knew my days would be going from one place to another (sometimes two) where I leave home at 7 am and do not get home until 10 pm. I knew that I would be spending more time discussing politics, the school system, and attending meetings from one county to the next. I knew that before deciding to run for the Regional Superintendent of School position that it would take time away from my family and personal life. But it’ll all be worth it come June 28.
Please attend events, meetings, and even meet and greets to see who you want to vote for. I cannot stress it enough that just following social media or listening to the political propaganda ads on TV is not going to give you accurate and truthful information. This is evident with Richard Irvin, candidate for Governor. In fact, just last year there are YouTube videos of him praising Pritzker on a job well done with his mandates.
If you are in the area, come check out where I will be during the month of May. More events can be added on short notice. Do not forget to check my website for more information. Below are events that you can find me at:
CASA Kendall County Gala - April 30 / 5 pm
Canvassing - Kendall (O27) Oswego - May 1 (9 am - 5 pm)
Canvassing - Grundy (Channahon) - May 2 (4:30 - 6:30 pm)
Meet and Greet (Elwood) - May 11 (6 - 8 pm)
Rock the Vote - Meet and Greet (Wilmington) - May 14 (noon - 5 pm)
Canvassing - Kendall (O18) Aurora - May 15 (9 am - noon)
Restore Education - Meet and Greet (Morris) - May 17 (5:30 - 8:30 pm)
Freedom Rally (Morris) - May 21 (10 am - noon)
Forgotten Warrior Ceremony (Channahon) - May 21 (1 - 4 pm)
As I stated before, we cannot do this alone. If you want to help restore public education, here are some ideas:
Decide to run for the local school board. In 2023, school board seats will have a vacancy or be up for re-election. Many are willing to help you through the process of getting signatures and filing.
Be an advocate in your school district. If you have not already, start attending board meetings and decide to speak up during public comment.
Encourage others to run for office in your district.
I believe that public education can be restored by working together. It takes one person to stand up; it takes a village to make a difference.
To donate / volunteer: www.KoppersforROE24.com
Best,
Kristen Koppers, M.A.Ed., NBCT