LOYAL. LOCAL. COMPLETE.
Publisher’s note: Answers to the following questionnaire were submitted by Paris-Union School District 95 Board of Education candidate Ashley Hemrich and are largely unedited, outside of minor stylistic changes to ensure compliance with AP Style guidelines. Any views or opinions expressed in this piece do not reflect the opinions of The Prairie Press or its editorial team.
Briefly explain who you are and provide some background information on yourself (age, hometown, occupation, etc.).
I am 39 years old and will celebrate my 40th birthday in August. I was born and raised in Paris, and my birth name is Ashley Wilson.
My parents, Burl and Karen Wilson, still reside in Paris. I have two sons: Brennan, who graduated in 2024 and is now a first-year student at the University of Illinois, where he is part of the prestigious Marching Illini band, and Brodee, who is currently an eighth-grader at Mayo Middle School.
Professionally, I serve as the Access Director at the Human Resource Center in Paris, overseeing services for individuals in Edgar and Clark Counties. My work involves collaboration with various stakeholders across the state, including the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), Probation departments in both counties, Parole from Effingham, and the Juvenile Justice System based in Champaign.
Additionally, I manage the Employee Assistance Program for multiple organizations, which involves overseeing sensitive personal information—such as names, addresses, phone numbers, and occupations—of employees from North American Lighting, the City of Terre Haute, and the First Responders and Sheriff Departments in Clark County.
Briefly recap or describe your own educational experience as a student (and as an educator if applicable).
As a native of Paris, I graduated from various local schools, and my children have followed the same path. I completed my education at Memorial, Redmon, Mayo and finally Paris High School, graduating in 2003. I earned my associates degree in social work from Lakeland College in 2006.
In 2015, I decided to pursue further education and graduated from Indiana State University with a bachelor’s degree in political science in 2018. From 2018 to 2020, I worked as a Graduate Assistant in the Political Science department, where I earned my master’s in public administration. As a Graduate Assistant, I had the opportunity to interact with students, author various articles for publication, and assist with research for my professors’ books.
I am a PhD candidate at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, focusing on my dissertation, with an expected graduation date of May 2025. My coursework has specifically examined the effects of the pandemic on employee engagement, satisfaction, and retention, as well as the impact on workplace culture before, during, and after the pandemic.
I have also conducted focus groups at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods to help college students feel heard and prepared for the challenges they face. I have traveled abroad to India, virtually to the Galapagos Islands, and I will be in Paraguay in May, working on a school project on gender equality paid for by a grant through the embassy. My educational background and experience in public administration equip me with the skills necessary to succeed as a school board member.
In your opinion, what is the most pressing issue (or issues) facing your school district?
Trust in our school district and its leaders is the most pressing issue facing District 95. As a parent, community member, and stakeholder, I often hear concerns about perceived corruption within the district and calls for accountability.
Upholding standards of accountability and transparency is essential for all individuals involved in managing school finances and leadership.
Accountability is paramount, especially within our school district. I believe that all members should be responsible for the decisions that are made, whether those decisions are correct or otherwise. It is important to acknowledge both agreement and disagreement with choices made openly. As a member of the board, I aim to foster a culture of accountability among all stakeholders, which will help build community trust.
Transparency has also been a significant concern for our district. This encompasses clear communication from district leadership, transparency in district finances, and governance practices. I commend the current superintendent for taking steps in this direction and believe it is vital to continue making financial information accessible and comprehensible to the public.
If elected, what immediate action would you propose to address the issue(s) mentioned above? What long-term plans would you propose to address the issue(s)?
I would push for more public meetings in a larger arena so that more people can attend. If District 95 is going to dig itself out of its financial hole, we need the support of the families and communities.
As a public administration graduate, I understand that accountability and transparency are the foundations of this degree. For many years, our community was not interested in learning what our superintendent was doing. We thought that everything was going great until it wasn’t.
Open meetings, personal meetings, door-to-door greetings—anything that restores faith in the district—will be essential for parents to be on board. Being transparent about what is going on in the community and accountable for the decisions we, as a board, will make is the first step in the right direction.
What parts of your experience as a professional or volunteer do you believe would suit you well on the school board?
Throughout my college career, I have been fortunate to collaborate with diverse professors, gaining valuable insights into political and educational domains. This collaboration has allowed me to engage in meaningful discussions and projects that have deepened my understanding of various political theories and academic methodologies.
As a PERK mentor for the past three years, I have not only honed my leadership and mentoring skills but have also been able to influence my peers positively. I am eager to continue in this role and motivate other board members to participate actively in mentorship, as it is essential for fostering a supportive and enriching academic environment.
In addition to my academic pursuits, I have had the incredible opportunity to explore diverse cultures and education systems. I participated in a virtual program centered on the Galapagos Islands, which offered a unique perspective on environmental education and conservation.
Currently, I am traveling to India, where I am immersing myself in the local educational practices.
In my current position, I frequently encounter challenges, such as criticism and negativity, mainly when collaborating with individuals struggling with substance use and mental health issues. These situations require not only empathy but also the courage to make tough decisions that can impact lives. I approach these challenges with a keen sense of responsibility, always striving to advocate for those in need while maintaining my integrity and commitment to making the right choices for the well-being of the individuals I serve.
In your opinion, what is the value and importance of the public education system?
The public education system plays many distinct roles for the children in their community. It is more than just a system; it’s a pathway for children to learn real-life skills to make them better-rounded children who grow up to contribute to members of society.
The public education system helps develop well-rounded individuals and helps students recognize their strengths and weaknesses while giving them the avenue for better improvement.
Teachers, administrators, and even school janitors all provide a safe place for children to learn. Post-pandemic classrooms expose children to more diversity, where they are exposed to diverse cultures, foods, and overall experiences. As the world changes, it is the educational system’s job to grow with them and teach them how to navigate life.
If given the authority, what would you change about the public education experience?
Standardized testing would be the primary issue I would begin to change about the public education experience. Standardized testing is not a one-size-fits-all scenario and should be adjusted appropriately. Not all students learn the same, and as a mother of two boys, I understand how important it is not to group all students. Even while traveling abroad, many times I have heard the mention of standardized testing and how it can affect children differently.
Secondly, funding for the schools. If we expect the teachers to continue instructing our children, we need to put the right money into our schools and our programs. In theory, Dr. Larson had the right idea, but the wrong execution of the idea was implemented. Putting the right money into the right programs will be instrumental for District 95 and its continued success as we dig ourselves out of the financial hole.
It’s also important to realize that one board member cannot change the public education experience.
What are the strengths of the public education system?
One of the public education system’s most significant advantages is its ability to provide affordable education to all students, regardless of their socioeconomic background. This accessibility ensures that every child can pursue a quality education without the burden of excessive financial strain.
Inclusivity of students provides access to all students. With HRC, I understand firsthand how important it is to provide opportunities for all students, regardless of their physical and intellectual disabilities, as well as all races and nationalities.
Providing students with access to a safe environment to come to provides them with meals and a safe, warm place to stay. Some children do not have these basic needs afforded to them at home, and schools are the second home for children. Students often do not have consistent meals, but many schools provide food for them, keeping their minds and bellies full.
Professional and academic growth benefits students and the community. By fostering professional and academic development, students enrich their communities and are inspired to give back.
By removing cost barriers, the public education system promotes equality and inclusivity, allowing students from diverse backgrounds to access essential resources, experienced educators, and comprehensive learning opportunities. This commitment to affordability not only empowers individual students but also strengthens communities by fostering a more educated and skilled workforce.
What other information do you want readers of The Prairie Press and community members to know about you?
I know the importance of family, education, and community. Paris has been my home for almost 40 years, and it is where I have raised my oldest son, Brennan, and my youngest son, Brodee. I have worked in the restaurant business my whole life, and I have come into contact with most, if not all, of the community members and stakeholders at one point in time or another. Now, I work in a position that allows me to continue to get to know people and help them during their time of need.
As the former neighbor of the previous superintendent, I had a front-row seat to the unfortunate situation. While this is detrimental to the community, my family and I were affected more than others. I shared the drive with Dr. Larson, and the FBI was in my yard trying to prevent me from entering my own home.
Our safety was put at risk until the information was presented as to why the FBI was raiding his home. We had increased traffic on our road and people in my alley and yard. News reporters and news channels often knocked on my door, wanting my videos from my camera. While my goal is to emphasize the safety issues my family faced, it’s also important to acknowledge the issues faced by the community as well.
I understand the frustrations felt by many community members and parents and what I must do to be part of the change for my future grandchildren and yours.