Meet Omar Salem, newest school board member 

The Board of Education welcomed a new member and voted on leadership roles in a special meeting this Wednesday, May 10. Omar Salem was sworn in for a four-year term after he won a seat on the Board in the April election. Salem is a D65 parent and a high school teacher who’s currently on leave to serve as the Professional Issues Director at the Illinois Federation of Teachers.

“I’m hoping to tap into my 15 years of experience in public education to help shape policies that advance equity and inclusion, and ensure that all students feel safe, challenged, and loved,” he said.

Sergio Hernandez, who was reelected in April, was also reelected as president of the board. Soo La Kim was reelected as vice president, and Adeela Qureshi was reelected as secretary. All motions passed unanimously. The proposed Board meeting calendar for 2023-24 was also approved. Committee and school liaison assignments will be determined at the May 22 meeting.