Could you tell me a bit about yourself and your family?
I grew up in Paris, Il and graduated from PHS. I went on to Eastern Illinois University, where I earned my undergraduate degree and two master’s degrees, as well as competed in intercollegiate cross country. I am currently finishing up a 43-year career in education as the interim Superintendent at Chrisman. That career includes 20+ years as a science teacher and coach (mostly cross country and track), as well as 19 years as a Superintendent in three different districts. I have lived in Ogden, Il for most of my adult life with my wife Cindy of 42 years, where I also serve as Mayor. Cindy and I have three grown children and were recently blessed with our first grandchild.
What motivated you to run and what are your goals?
I ran for State Representative in District 102 in 2016. I ran then and am running now because I believe that I can make a positive difference, not only for the people in east central Illinois but for people across the state when it comes to matters of policy in public education. I would hope to be able to carve out a niche in the legislature as the go-to person when there are questions about how suggested policy might affect the day-to-day life of educators. There is no one currently in the legislature with my educational experience.
Why is public service important to you?
Aside from bringing my career experience as an educator, I will stand up and fight for families in eastern Illinois to make sure that we get our fair share of funding from the state. At the same time, as a fiscal conservative, I will hold the line on taxes. The responsibility of managing taxpayer money is a sacred trust. Finally, I will make every attempt to govern, as opposed to stand up in front of a microphone and make the repeated meaningless proclamations that we see from many of our current legislators.
What makes you the best candidate for the position? I would enjoy the opportunity to widen my sphere of influence. I have been in public service my entire adult life, first as a teacher/coach, then as a principal, and finally as a school superintendent and a small-town mayor. The opportunity to serve a larger public body as a state representative seems like the natural next step.
What can people expect from you as a state rep?
I have strong conservative values. I am pro-life, a strong supporter of our Second Amendment, and a fiscal conservative. And, it should surprise no one that after a 43-year career in public education, I am also a strong advocate for public education. There are lots of teachers in the 102nd district and I am proud to have their support in this election.
How will your previous experiences in the private sector help as a
state rep? I have experience in managing taxpayer money, both as a school superintendent and village mayor. In both roles, the needs of the district and town must be balanced with what the taxpayers can afford. I am detail-oriented, I have a high energy level, and I am used to getting things done. I am experienced in managing people, which ultimately boils down to building and fostering relationships. These qualities should ultimately serve me well as a state representative.
What else should people know? There will be no names on the ballot for representatives in the general assembly, one hundred and second district. If folks want to vote for me, they will have to write my name in as follows:
• Request a Republican ballot
• Find the State Representative part of the ballot
• Shade in the circle
• Write-in “Jim Acklin” on the line
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