Candidate Interview: Synathia Harris for Calumet Park School Board (Calumet Park, IL) – The Southland Journal interviewed Mrs. Synathia Harris, candidate for Calumet Public School District 132 Board. Mrs. Harris talked about transparency within the school district, community, and improvements.
History
Synathia Harris has lived in Calumet Park since 2009. She is the proud parent of three grown children. Her youngest graduated from Calumet Park schools in 2019. Ms. Harris attended St. Martin de Porres Academy High School in Chicago before studying Criminal Social Justice at Lewis University in Romeoville, IL. She also worked as a teachers aide in the school district.
The School District
Ms. Harris has served on School District 132 PTA as the secretary. She soon became involved as a school board member and has been successful. She has been awarded the Master Board Member award and is passionate about resolving community issues. Ms. Harris has created tools that enable parents to support their children in school. One such endeavor is the creation of workshops on how to be aware of sex trafficking within the community.
Recently, given the current COVID-19 Pandemic, Ms. Harris has been outspoken in her support of students and teachers within the school district. She has been an advocate for ensuring safety and healthy protocols are in place before and after the schools open. She stresses that safety is #1 in order for the district to function. Ms. Harris stated that she believes in making “Calumet Public School District the foundation for future lawyers, doctors, nurses, teachers, police officers, or even the next Mayor of Calumet Park.”
Ms. Harris consistently pushed for transparency in the dealing of the school district. She believes in having a diverse board that represents the racial makeup of the district’s students. In addition, Ms. Harris states that it is imperative that the school district consistently and effectively communicate with parents and students.
Ms. Harris also volunteers in many capacities. She has served seniors and has worked within the community to finding resources. Ms. Harris said, “Community service should be automatic.”
Candidate Interview: Synathia Harris for Calumet Park School Board