Jeffrey Vogel: Candidate Profile

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Note: Answers provided have not been edited for grammar, misspellings or typos. In some instances, candidate claims that could not be immediately verified have been omitted.

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BioQ&A

Bio

City: Medinah

Website: Candidate did not respond.

Office sought:

Medinah District 11 School Board

Age: 53

Family: Wife and 2 children

Occupation: Director of Purchasing

Education: Devry, Electrical Technician CPP Certificate

Civic involvement: Yes, many

Elected offices held: Vice President and Facilities Committee Chairmman

Questions & Answers

How satisfied are you that your school district is adequately preparing students for the next stage in their lives, whether it be from elementary into high school or high school into college or full-time employment? What changes, if any, do you think need to be made?

I am well satisfied. The district has great administrators and teachers in place.

What budgetary issues will your district have to confront during the next four years and what measures do you support to address them? If you believe cuts are necessary, be specific about programs and expenses that should be considered for reduction or elimination. On the income side, do you support any tax increases for local schools? Again, be specific.

There are no major issues on the horizon for our district. The budget is in balance and I do not see the need for tax increases at this time

Are you currently employed by or retired from a school district, if so, which one? Is any member of your direct family - spouse, child or child-in-law - employed by the school district where you are seeking a school board seat?

No

As contract talks come up with various school employee groups -- teachers, support staff, etc. -- what posture should the school board take? Do you believe the district should ask for concessions from its employees, expect employee costs to stay about the same as they are now or provide increases in pay or benefits?

I have been the Board lead negotiator for the last 2 teacher contracts. The district currently has a 3 year deal that is advantageous to the district and acceptable to the staff.

If your district had a superintendent or other administrator nearing retirement, would you support a substantial increase in his or her pay to help boost pension benefits? Why or why not?

No. The Administrators in Illinois already have a very lucrative arrangement. There is no desire or need to boost their benefits.

What other issues, if any, are important to you as a candidate for this office?

There are no pressing issues at this time. Our facilities are in pretty good shape and the budget is in good shape. I would like to continue with this board to ensure the future for the kids in my district.

Please name one current leader who most inspires you.

Scott Walker

What's the biggest lesson you learned at home growing up?

To take care of yourself and look out for your family.

If life gave you one do-over, what would you spend it on?

High School

What was your favorite subject in school and how did it help you in later life?

History. Not to make mistakes, already made by others.

If you could give your children only one piece of advice, what would it be?

Always do your best.