Why Am I Running?
I am running for the Thornton Township High School District 205 School Board because I believe my professional experience, community involvement, and understanding of the needs of students and families can contribute to the work of the Board.
I believe effective school governance starts with listening—listening to students, parents, educators, staff, and the community—and then asking the right questions about what is working, what is not, and where improvement is needed.
District 205 has important work ahead. My focus is on student success, accountability, communication, and making sure the district’s decisions remain centered on students and their future.
MY COMMITMENT
My commitment is to be both proactive and responsive in serving our students, families, educators, and community. I believe effective leadership means looking ahead, identifying opportunities for growth, listening to concerns, and working collaboratively to address challenges as they arise. I will approach each issue with an open mind, respect for different perspectives, and a willingness to learn from the experience and expertise of others. My goal is to contribute positively to the Board by encouraging thoughtful discussion, strong communication, transparency, and decisions that keep our students and the future of our district at the center.
I am committed to helping build upon the strengths of our district while continuously looking for opportunities to improve. That means supporting innovation, responsible stewardship of resources, meaningful community engagement, and initiatives that prepare our students for success beyond high school. My commitment is to listen, anticipate, collaborate, and follow through—working alongside the Board, educators, families, and community to help create the best possible opportunities for every student.
Commitment to Student Success
My Priorities
STUDENT ATTENDANCE and ENGAGEMENT
District 205’s 2024–25 Illinois Report Card reported a 47% chronic absenteeism rate. I want the Board to continue to look closely at the barriers that keep students from consistently attending school and whether interventions are reaching students early enough and consistently.
SAFE and SUPPORTIVE SCHOOLS
Students need schools where they can learn, feel safe, and remain connected to instruction. I support thoughtful approaches to school safety, discipline, student rights, and the school climate. Students and staff should never have to be concerned about whether they are safe when they come to school.
TRANSPARENCY and STEWARDSHIP
School district decisions affect students, families, educators, taxpayers, and the broader community. I believe residents should be able to understand how major decisions and investments are made, what they are intended to accomplish, and how the district measures results.
ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT
District data shows continued challenges in English Language Arts and mathematics proficiency. I support using student performance data to understand where additional instructional support is needed and to measure whether investments in curriculum and professional development are producing results.
POST GRADUATION
Students need a clear path to graduation and a clear understanding of what comes next. I support identifying students who are falling behind early and strengthening pathways to college, careers, certifications, military service, and employment.
Interested in learning more about the campaign, volunteering, or connecting with Ricca Louissaint?
Ricca Louissaint
Candidate for Thornton Township High School District 205 School Board
Email: rlouissaint2@
Phone: (708) 740-4205















