West Central Reporter

Republican candidate for State Senate District 25 Heather Brown called out school violence at West Chicago School District #33. 

Keeping Illinois safe and protecting children are among Brown's top campaign issues.

“Last week the parents were in an uproar as we have had our third gun found and one knife found at elementary or high schools,” Brown said. “Middle schoolers have been beat up at gunpoint behind buildings. ...They treat the children as each could be holding onto weapons now. No more lockers, clear backpacks, yet still kids are bringing guns to school. Parents are saying since the kids have to carry all their books in the backpacks that they’re breaking quickly.”

At the Sept. 26 meeting of the West Chicago Public Affairs Committee, an agreement was entered between the City of West Chicago and the Board of Education of West Chicago School District #33. The agreement reiterated that the superintendent is responsible for ensuring crimes involving firearms and drugs are reported. The agreement also created two new School Resource Officer positions funded at $167,900 apiece with funding to be split between the city and school district. 

“Based upon manpower availability, the Police Department's Chief of Police shall select up to two sworn police officers, who shall be a permanent full-time members of the Police Department, as the SOs,” according to the minutes. “The SOs shall at all times remain under the direction and control of the Chief of Police, pursuant to the established chain of command within the Police Department, and shall be subject to discipline in accordance with the Police Department's rules and regulations concerning members of the Police Department, as the same may be amended from time to time.”

Brown is an alderman for the City of West Chicago. Married for eight years, she has two young children who she has been homeschooling since 2020. According to her campaign website, Brown's "extended family is diverse and includes autistic members. Her family has been her main support system after being diagnosed six years ago with Stiff Person Syndrome; a rare autoimmune disease.  In addition to fighting her own health battles, she is a fighter for others and their families.”

Brown will be facing incumbent Sen. Karina Villa (D-West Chicago) in the November general election. District 25 includes West Chicago, Bartlett and North Aurora.