abc-logo
Taking care of your Loved One Is What We Do BEST!

It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always

Please submit form to schedule a

Personal Care Consultation

Local Magic Personal Care Consultation

Please submit this form below and we will chat shortly!

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Home Care In St. Charles, IL

Home Care St. Charles, IL

They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.

However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic St. Charles Historic District gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in St. Charles, IL is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care St. Charles, IL

location Service Areas

The Always Best Care Difference

Since 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.

Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.

The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.

×
TESTIMONIALS

“I highly recommend this care company. Specifically Marya, one of the executive managers, went above and beyond to make sure my dad was comfortable, and the care giving was done well. Relatives commented on the house looking cleaner than they could remember! When my father had to move on to more intensive setting, Marya helped take stress off the family by helping us conduct legwork in locating a facility. Even though Dad has moved on, Marya still shows care and concern for our family by periodically checking in. Thank you for everything!!”

Gina R.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Not only were the caregivers amazing, but The management team was such a pleasure to work with and are very caring and concerned for their clients.”

Cathy S.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Not only were the caregivers amazing, but The management team was such a pleasure to work with and are very caring and concerned for their clients.”

Cathy S.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider They give her breakfast. We have had other companies, but we have been able to stick with always best for a while.”

Anonymous_1705590366
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider Always Best Care sends friendly caregivers who have had a positive impact on Pamella's life. Always Best Care is very responsive and helpful to me. They provide reliable and quality caregivers.”

Pamella M.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a past client of this provider I just thought that they were there and did a great job. I thought they were very caring.”

John S.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“The team was fantastic. The young lady that came to my home was attentive and conscientious about my property, as well as my needs. I am truly impressed by the organization, the quality of people and the way they do business.”

Dave M.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider The one woman we really like, we work really well. I like the one person we get every week. It depends on who you have and how well they're trained.”

Priscilla O.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider They help with the shopping. They are useful.”

Christopher C.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I have been with Always Best Care for a year now and I can honestly tell you they are some of the best people to work with, Cindy conducted my interview and walked me through the hiring process and explained my duties and responsibilities to my client, she's always available for any questions that you may have. Ragu the owner has an opened door policy where we can call him at any time and he will address any concerns that we may have. Nicole is the newcomer to the group she is the scheduler And she works within the schedule that we give her, she's also willing to make last minute adjustments if we need the day off or if there's an emergency with no problem this agency in my humble opinion is one of the best to work for.”

Kimberly A.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“great service”

Sabeen K.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“5 Star ⭐️ rating for working for and with Always Best it’s so flexible, and understanding I appreciate Always Best We had a wonderful experience working With Mr. Raghu he’s very kind and considerate not only to the people we care for but to his employees to. I encourage all caregivers to join our team today you will love it.”

Tereya G.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“They have good service and are very open to different people”

Cassandra C.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“You can tell this service truly cares about their clients and clients’ families. They wanted to ensure they were satisfied as well. The only reason I did not give 5 stars was due to some disconnect I felt with communication, but they were very responsive when I reached out. Would definitely try them again if (God forbid) the need arises for the care of an ill loved one.”

Nanette C.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in St. Charles, IL?

lm-check

Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.

lm-check

When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

lm-check

The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.

lm-check

At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.

 Senior Care St. Charles, IL

Types of Elderly Care in St. Charles, IL

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care

Personal Care Services

If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.

Common personal care services include assistance with:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming
 Respite Care St. Charles, IL
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
 Caregivers St. Charles, IL
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Frontier Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care St. Charles, IL
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Prasino St. Charles or visit St. Charles Water Tower 1887 - St. Charles Historic Landmark, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.

If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.

 In-Home Care St. Charles, IL

Benefits of Home Care in St. Charles, IL

Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:

Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.

Request More Information vector

Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?

A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.

With the help of elderly care in St. Charles, IL, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.

Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.

In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.

 Elderly Care St. Charles, IL

Affordable Care

In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.

Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.

At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.

In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your IL's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
 Senior Care St. Charles, IL

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.

Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.

At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in St. Charles, IL understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.

Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.

Assisted Living Referral Services

While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.

Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.

 Respite Care St. Charles, IL

At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.

Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
 Caregivers St. Charles, IL

At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.

Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.

Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:

  • Lake St. Charles Retirement Community
  • Windsor Estates of St. Charles - Retirement Community
  • LEWIS and CLARK GARDENS
  • Fairwinds - Rivers Edge
  • Mount Carmel Senior Living
  • Parkside Retirement Living
Home Care St. Charles, IL

For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.

 In-Home Care St. Charles, IL

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:

A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way

lm-right-arrow
01

A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

lm-right-arrow
02

Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

lm-right-arrow
03

Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.

If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.

At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in St. Charles, IL 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.

When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.

 Elderly Care St. Charles, IL

Latest News in St. Charles, IL

Newcomers poised to join St. Charles school board

Unofficial results have two newcomers joining the St. Charles District 303 school board.Eight candidates were competing for four seats on the school board.As of 10 p.m. on Tuesday, April 1, incumbents Heidi Fairgrieve and Kate Bell, as well as newcomers Kimberly Rich and ...

Unofficial results have two newcomers joining the St. Charles District 303 school board.

Eight candidates were competing for four seats on the school board.

As of 10 p.m. on Tuesday, April 1, incumbents Heidi Fairgrieve and Kate Bell, as well as newcomers Kimberly Rich and Jenna Hancock were in the lead, each with more than 14% of the vote.

Incumbent Thomas Lentz was the next highest vote getter, coming within 1,000 votes of the top four, with newcomers Aaron White, Antonietta Berton-Nicklaus and Elias Palacios trailing by a wide margin.

Kane County Clerk Jack Cunningham said Tuesday evening that the results could change next 15 days, as there were mail-in ballots still to be counted.

Rich said she is the first member of her family to run for any type of elected position, and even after the votes stopped Tuesday evening, was hesitant to feel assured. But she said she and her family were out gently and cautiously celebrating.

Rich said she thinks what resonated with voters about her was “the fact that I am really looking to improve the overall success of our students...I’m in it for four years, and I care about the success of the district academically, financially and even just the spirit of the district.”

Rich expressed her gratitude for the community for trusting her and said she was honored to represent them and their families, and excited to work collaboratively with the team she hopes to be joining soon.

Fairgrieve said she was very excited with the results while collecting her campaign signs Tuesday evening.

Fairgrieve said she strives to maintain a balance in representing the various community stakeholders, and garnered endorsements from members on both sides of party lines, which is what she thought resonated with voters.

“I absolutely appreciate all of the support that [voters] showed throughout my campaign and through their vote and I’m very thankful,” Fairgrieve said.

Bell said she was really grateful to all the voters who made it out to the polls and moved by the support she received.

“I know that I’m going to continue my commitment to build on our positive trajectory in the district, of more accountability, more transparency and more communication,” Bell said. “I know that we’ll be constantly changing, learning and growing.”

Bell said she wants all families in the district know they can reach out and contact her any time.

Jenna Hancock could not be reached on election night.

Hands Off! rally set April 5 in Geneva

We Can Lead Change Fox Valley is hosting a local rally from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, April 5, on the State Street bridge over the Fox River in Geneva, according to a news release.The event is part of the Hands Off! National Day of Action in opposition to the actions of President Trump and Elon Musk and in support of democracy, according to the release.“People across our community are watching loved ones struggle – jobs lost, e...

We Can Lead Change Fox Valley is hosting a local rally from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, April 5, on the State Street bridge over the Fox River in Geneva, according to a news release.

The event is part of the Hands Off! National Day of Action in opposition to the actions of President Trump and Elon Musk and in support of democracy, according to the release.

“People across our community are watching loved ones struggle – jobs lost, essential programs like Social Security under threat and basic rights being chipped away,” St. Charles resident and WCLC member Sue Sanders said in the release. “They know what’s at stake, and they’re not willing to stay silent.”

Hundreds of people have signed up to attend the rally, according to the release.

“President Trump and his billionaire funder, Elon Musk, are gutting services that regular people count on every day,” Sanders said in the release. “The only way to stop this hostile takeover of our nation is through a people-powered movement. That’s why WCLC is proud to be part of this national event, which will have representation in all 50 states.”

Participants are urged to be mindful of local businesses by patronizing them, carpooling and parking in public lots. The rally is about a 20-minute walk from the Metra station in Geneva, which also has parking, according to the release.

Participants are also urged to dress appropriately for the weather.

Handmade signs and American flags are welcome.

We Can Lead Change was formed in 2017 in response to the Women’s March on Washington.

We Can Lead Change Fox Valley is a nonpartisan, grassroots organization dedicated to civic engagement, advocacy and community-driven change, according to the release.

The organization is committed to fostering informed and engaged citizens. It also works to increase voter participation, amplify community voices and support equity and inclusivity in local governance.

More information is available online at wecanleadchange.org.

We Can Lead Change Fox Valley cosponsored a rally on International Women’s Day on March 8, also on the bridge across the Fox River in Geneva.

2025 Election Questionnaire: Elias Palacios, St. Charles District 303 Board of Education

Name:Elias PalaciosWhat office are you seeking?SAINT CHARLES COMMUNITY UNIT SCHOOL DISTRICT 303 BOARDWhat is your political party?Schools’ districts are non-partisansWhat is your current age?64Occupation and employer:Retired Senior Public Service Administrator for the State of IllinoisWhat offices, if any, have you previously held?NoneCity:...

Name:

Elias Palacios

What office are you seeking?

SAINT CHARLES COMMUNITY UNIT SCHOOL DISTRICT 303 BOARD

What is your political party?

Schools’ districts are non-partisans

What is your current age?

64

Occupation and employer:

Retired Senior Public Service Administrator for the State of Illinois

What offices, if any, have you previously held?

None

City:

Campton Hills

Campaign Website:

voteforepalacios.org

Education:

Grand Canyon University,Phoenix, AZ.Currently pursuing aPh.D. with a concentration in Industrial and Organization Psychology.

Adler University, Chicago, Illinois. Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology.

Los Libertadores, School of Advanced Professional Education located in Trujillo, Peru. Bachelor’s degree in business administration/accounting.

Montay College, Chicago Illinois. Certificate of Completion: Hispanic American Addictions Counseling Program.

John Marshall Law School, Chicago, Illinois. Certificate of Completion: Law Program for Community Developers and Social Workers.

Harvard University, Cambridge, MA. Certificate of completion. The Opioid Crisis in America.

Harvard University, Cambridge, MA. Certificate of completion: Exercising Leadership: Foundational Principles.

Illinois Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Professional Certification Association, Inc., (IAODAPCA) Springfield, Illinois. Certified Advanced Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Counselor (CAADC). This certificate meets international standards.

Community Involvement:

Saint Mark’s Lutheran Church in Saint Charles

Marital status/Immediate family:

My wife, Maria, and I are married with two wonderful children. Our 14-year-old son is in the 9th grade, and our 10-year-old daughter is in the 5th grade, both attending schools in the Saint Charles School District 303. We also have a rabbit and a small dog that add joy to our family.

Questions:

How can the district improve reading and English proficiency and state test scores?

We need customized instruction, teacher training, diverse materials, parental engagement, technology integration, regular assessments, and effective after-school programs to boost reading skills and test scores. We must take these actions decisively to achieve significant improvement.

As diversity, equity and inclusion programs are being rolled back in organizations around the country, what role does the school district have to play in ensuring a diverse community of learners has equal opportunities for success?

The school district can recognize the importance of integrating diverse perspectives in curriculum development to foster cultural appreciation among students. It is also important to emphasize the need for training educators in cultural awareness and inclusive practices for equitable student support.

Do you think the district is doing enough to ensure that schools are drug-free environments? Why or why not? And if not, what more can be done?

The school district is not doing enough to ensure that schools are in drug-free environments. There are reports from parents and students about incidents involving possession and use of some drugs. Parents report a lack of communication with the school. We need drug prevention/early intervention programs to be accessible to students and parents. Parents are essential to the success of these programs. Additionally, it is crucial to assess any initiatives undertaken by the district.

What steps can districts take to ensure students are physically safe while in the building? Is the district doing enough or would you like to see more?

School districts can improve safety by hiring security, controlling access, using surveillance, and enforcing anti-bullying policies, with ongoing evaluations and active parents and community involvement. I don’t believe the school district is doing enough because there were reports from parents complaining about the lack of communication between the school administration and the school district when their children were experiencing bullying behaviors within the schools. Students must be safe within the school premises, including outside areas used for recreational activities, school buses, and school functions.

If you have children, do they or did they attend public school and was that for all of their K-12 school years?

My children have attended public schools since preschool and kindergarten up to the present time.

What do you see as the school district’s role in deciding what materials should be available in the library and in curricula?

The school district is crucial in selecting library and curriculum materials that meet educational standards and support diverse student needs. Involving educators, parents, and the community ensures representation and inclusivity, creating a supportive learning environment for all students.

Most of local residents' property taxes go to their school districts. Are taxes paid to your school district too high? What would you do to protect the interests of taxpayers?

Residents find school property taxes high. We should assess funding, promote transparency, and engage the community to reduce the tax burden while ensuring educational quality. Open communication is key.

Most of the COVID relief money from the federal government is coming to an end. What spending adjustments does your school district need to make to address that?

As federal COVID relief funding ends, our school district must assess the budget, prioritize essential programs, and ensure responsible spending. Engaging stakeholders is vital during this transition.

Should Title IX cover sexual orientation or gender identity? What are your views on the use of locker rooms and bathrooms by transgender students and their participating in sports?

Title IX should include both males and females. We should assign locker rooms and bathrooms specifically for each sex: male and female students. Additionally, we should classify students involved in sports into two groups: boys and girls. We can achieve this while honoring students’ cultural backgrounds, languages, traditions, faiths and personal beliefs.

What is your stance on ICE agents accessing school grounds, and what policies would you advocate for regarding their presence on school property?

ICE presence on school grounds creates fear and anxiety, especially for undocumented students. I advocate for policies that limit ICE entry without a warrant or prior notice and training for staff on their rights. Schools should be safe zones for all students to learn and grow.

What are the top three issues that the school district is facing right now?

Concerns regarding safety, academic achievement, and tax issues are prevalent.

Safety concerns include mental health issues, drug use, and incidents of bullying.

Many students are not performing at grade level when it comes to academic achievement.

Additionally, numerous taxpayers have reported tax-related issues, mainly when inadequate funding allocation, and communication with stakeholders is poor.

What is your position on allowing students to use cell phones during school hours?

Students should not be allowed to use cell phones during school hours, but they need to have easy access when an emergency arises. St. Charles School Board needs to consider this to preserve all students’ safety while in school.

Do you think cell phone policies should allow exceptions for emergencies or specific educational purposes? If so, how would these exceptions be defined?

Yes, for emergencies and some educational purposes. These exceptions need to be defined by all stakeholders, especially parents who ultimately are responsible for raising their children.

What steps would you take to address concerns about cyberbullying and inappropriate content access through student cell phones?

I propose the following main actions: Engage parents through workshops on phone management and implement content filters on the school Wi-Fi.

Should students be able to use AI in schoolwork?

A balanced approach could be beneficial. School districts should create guidelines for the ethical use of AI in education, helping students gain skills while actively engaging in their studies.

What is your plan for making district financial reports, including budgets and expenditures, publicly available and easy to understand?

Initially, I’ll evaluate the existing system, followed by simplified reports that offer concise financial overviews with visual aids. We’ll also hold regular workshops to explain the budget and address any questions from stakeholders.

How would you involve parents and community members in the decision-making process for curriculum or policy changes?

I would assess the existing strategies and enhance the ones needed, such as continuing engagement with parents and community members. Also, it encourages representation from underrepresented groups within the district.

What is your position on banning books in school libraries or classrooms, and how do you define the criteria for such decisions?

I don’t support banning books, but stakeholders must choose age-appropriate books for students. Parents should play a key role in this process.

How would you balance maintaining appropriate class sizes with the current teacher staffing levels?

I would evaluate current staffing to identify surpluses or shortages, regularly monitor class sizes and student performance to make informed adjustments, and explore alternative staffing solutions, such as hiring part-time or retired teachers to manage class sizes without significantly increasing costs.

Do you believe the district is allocating enough resources toward hiring and supporting teachers, and if not, what changes would you make?

I don’t know. However, I will assess the situation and act appropriately.

How will you make sure you are accessible to your constituents?

To remain accessible to my constituents, I would create communication channels like town hall meetings, open office hours, and an online platform for questions. I’d also use social media and newsletters for updates and feedback.

2025 ElectionElectionNewsGovernmentEducation2025 Election: St. Charles District 303 School BoardSt. CharlesSt. Charles District 303

St. Charles teachers file complaint with Supreme Court over attorney’s deceitful actions in school board campaign

ST. CHARLES – The St. Charles Education Association (SCEA) today filed a complaint against attorney Larry Bettag for knowingly engaging in unethical and dishonest conduct related to the St. Charles Community Unit District 303 school board elections. The complaint was filed with the Attorney Registration and Discipline Commission (ARDC) of the Illinois Supreme Court. The ARDC investigates com...

ST. CHARLES – The St. Charles Education Association (SCEA) today filed a complaint against attorney Larry Bettag for knowingly engaging in unethical and dishonest conduct related to the St. Charles Community Unit District 303 school board elections. The complaint was filed with the Attorney Registration and Discipline Commission (ARDC) of the Illinois Supreme Court. The ARDC investigates complaints against attorneys and can take disciplinary action.

Bettag and others affiliated with the real estate attorney’s fringe group, Kane County Speaks, knowingly distributed hundreds if not thousands of fake flyers to the St. Charles community. These flyers, with deliberate disinformation, have been caught on ring camera video as they’re being left on doors, on mailboxes and even on cars in church parking lots—despite members of those churches specifically asking these individuals not to distribute materials on their grounds.

These flyers indicate the candidates pictured are endorsed by D303 educators, however, these are not the candidates endorsed by the D303 educator coalition, which is comprised of SCEA, the St. Charles Educational Support Professionals (SCESP) and the St. Charles Transportation and Maintenance (SCT&M). The flyers also note they are affiliated with Kane County Speaks and paid for by the political action committee (PAC) People of Kane County, which according to state elections data is chaired by Bettag’s wife, Michelle Brickert.

There is a calculated effort in D303 to take advantage of the community’s trust in our educators, a trust we have worked so hard to build, and it is an effort that manipulates the voters in our community,” SCEA President Jennifer Adam said. “This group, like so many others, is working to undermine the work of public educators and public schools by infiltrating our school boards. Our students and our communities deserve better than this. We deserve honesty, integrity and leaders who will put education and children above political gamesmanship.”

The flyer in question lists only one of the four candidates formally recommended by the coalition of St. Charles educator unions, known as D303 educators.

The official candidates recommended by the union coalition are:

“These fake flyers mimic the language our coalition of unions has historically used in support of our recommended candidates, falsely claiming that D303 educators have endorsed three school board candidates who did seek the recommendations of our three D303 unions but did not receive them,” SCEA President Jennifer Adam said. “This behavior would be wrong for any citizen, but it is especially egregious when you know it is coming from an attorney who took an oath to uphold the laws of our great state with integrity and respect.”

The union coalition encourages community members to seek accurate information and verify endorsements through trusted sources.

“We hope our community recognizes the gravity of this situation, and it isn’t fooled by the disinformation circulating,” Adam said. “The right to vote is a privilege, especially in an election that so directly and deeply impacts our students’ lives.”

SCEA, SCESP and SCT&M represent the more than 1,400 teachers, licensed staff, support staff, maintenance workers, custodians, grounds workers, and bus drivers currently working at the 15 schools in District 303. They serve the more than 11,500 students in the district.

Find more information about the D303 Educator Coalition’s recommended candidates for school board here. Election Day is April 1.

###

The 135,000 member Illinois Education Association (IEA-NEA) is the state’s largest union. IEA represents Pre K-12 teachers outside the city of Chicago and education support staff, higher education faculty, retired education employees and students preparing to become teachers, statewide.

Media Contact

Bridget Shanahan Media Relations Director [email protected] 708.341.4361

PreviousIEA SCORE grant fuels community service project for new Dolton students and their families

Disclaimer:

This website publishes news articles that contain copyrighted material whose use has not been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. The non-commercial use of these news articles for the purposes of local news reporting constitutes "Fair Use" of the copyrighted materials as provided for in Section 107 of the US Copyright Law.