Every Student
Every School
Dawn Nelson
Proven Leader
Passionate Advocate
Committed to Every Students’ Success
- Dedicated Advocate
Dawn is a steadfast
advocate for public
education that empowers
students - regardless of
race, background,
economics, identity,
or special needs-
to reach their full potential
and make a meaningful
impact in their community
and beyond.
About Dawn
- community involvement
In addition to being an active
member of our local community
and school volunteer,
Dawn dedicates her time to
organizations that make a
lasting impact and focus on
assisting families in need.
Dawn has played a key role in
event planning and volunteer
coordination for the Chicago
Police Foundation, the annual
Randy Smith Memorial Golf
Outing, Bunker Hill Charities
and actively supports Grit2.
- experience
With over 18 years of
experience as a trusted
leader elected by two
communities to serve as
a Library Board Trustee,
Dawn has the collaboration
and leadership skills
necessary to navigate
complex challenges and
bring people together for a
common cause.
Dawn will ask the tough
questions and work to
find the answers.
Parent. Leader. Advocate.
I’m not a politician—I’m a parent,
a volunteer, and engaged member of our
community.
My daughters have thrived in District 99,
and I’m committed to ensuring that every
student has the same opportunities to succeed.
With a tenacious spirit and an unwavering
dedication to our schools,
I will fight relentlessly to make sure every
student is supported, encouraged, and prepared
for the future they choose.
With decades of leadership experience in both
professional and volunteer roles,
I know how to listen, collaborate,
and make informed decisions
that truly put students first.
I’m ready to bring fresh energy,
a new perspective,
and a strong voice to the board—
because our students, families,
teachers and schools
deserve nothing less.
Faith - DGS Class 2022
Grace - DGS Class 2027
One of the School Board’s most important responsibilities in the coming term will be the hiring of the district’s next superintendent,
The superintendent sets the direction of our schools.
- We need a leader who puts students first, supports educators, and values collaboration with families and the community. With experience hiring leadership positions, I’ll work to ensure we select a superintendent who is student, staff, and community-focused.
thoughtful
Superintendent
Search
Opportunities for action
We have a responsibility to manage taxpayer dollars wisely,
making smart decisions that directly support student success.
Thoughtful, future-focused financial planning ensures we maximize
resources to prepare students for what’s ahead—whether it’s
another year in our schools or their post-secondary journey.
Every student deserves a supportive environment
- with the opportunities and resources to shape their own future.
Smart FINANCIAL
DECISIONS for
Student Success
Equity isn’t about giving every student the same thing—
it’s about ensuring each student gets what they need to succeed.
Our district has made great progress with the Strategic Plan and
this work is ongoing. Every student, regardless of race, background,
identity, or ability, should feel a true sense of belonging and graduate
from our schools equipped to realize their potential and positively
impact their community and the larger world.
equity in
education &
opportunity
Student success isn’t just about academics—it also depends on emotional
and social well-being. Access to mental health resources, along with
intervention and open communication are key to ensuring we support the
whole student—academically, emotionally, and socially. As a certified Mental
Health First Aid provider, I am dedicated to ensuring students, families, and
staff have the mental health support and resources they need.
prioritizing
Mental HEalth &
well being
I believe school board members should be visible, accessible, and actively
engaged in all of our schools—North, South, and our Transition 99 Center.
A strong school board depends on strong partnerships between students,
families, teachers, and administrators.
I’ve already begun the dialog and will continue the conversations with
teachers, administrators, students, and families to encourage open and
honest communication and full transparency.
- My seat at the table will be used to advocate for all stakeholders.
increasing
Community
Engagement
- Election Day:
April 1st, 2025
Voter
information
Useful links:
- Early Voting Begins:
March 17th, 2025
Early voting Locations:
- Darien Community Center
- Downers Grove Rec Center
- Downers Grove Village Hall
- Oak Brook Village Hall
- Westmont Public Library
- Woodridge Athletic Recreation Center (ARC)
- Yorktown Center
Open Monday - Sunday.
Weekdays: 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Weekends: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
good leaders listen
reach out and let me be your voice
Contact Dawn
i’d love to hear from you!