My name is Ronnie Faulkner. I am both a CICS Avalon parent and staff member.

I have three incredible children. My oldest began his education in Schaumburg, a northwestern suburb in Illinois. When he moved to Chicago, I knew I’d need to find a school that would challenge him academically and also give him the structure that he needed. He has ADHD and would struggle academically without a supportive structure. Fortunately, we found CICS Avalon, applied, and got in. His first year at that school changed his life. Never before had he received so much nurturing and support at school. He thrived tremendously! The skills that he learned at CICS Avalon has helped him to excel in high school at Urban Prep, where he masterfully balances a challenging course load, football, and planning ahead for college. Between our family and CICS Avalon, it was a team effort to get him back on course. I believe, if he was at any other school, he wouldn’t be as successful as he is today.

From my son’s first day at Avalon, I’ve been an active parent. Every morning, I would drop off my kids and interact with their teachers and the school staff. Their warm culture always felt welcoming to me. Due to my active involvement in my children’s future, an opportunity was presented to me to become a part of the ReGeneration staff as an Attendance Liaison. In this role, I build relationships with families to ensure that all students get to school on time each day. I love that school time is also family time for us.

My two younger children attend CICS Avalon now. My younger son is in sixth grade and he is doing well in classes and is the co-captain for his basketball team. My seven-year-old daughter started out at a highly recommended traditional Chicago public school. It was a good school, but we wanted a school culture and environment that was tailor-made for her. She needed to be challenged in a way that she wasn’t at her previous school. We transferred her to CICS Avalon as soon as we could and this has become home for our family.

CICS Avalon is an incredible school for students and families. I’ve made it my mission to let everyone from other parents, to CPS leaders, to elected officials know just how great it is. So when the opportunity came to go to Springfield and advocate on behalf of charter public schools, I was all for it. I knew that our elected officials would need to hear from us to make decisions that are in our best interest. So, on May 17th, I made the trek to Springfield. Once I got to the event and met people who were advocating with me, I knew that this was where I was meant to be.

Together, as a group of passionate parents, we met with elected officials, some who supported as well as some who did not support charter public schools. My most memorable moment was when I ran across an elected official who I had met a few months prior. Back then, he was very critical of charter schools and challenged me with many questions and concerns. However, at the end of our conversation, he applauded me for standing strong and for being so passionate about my children, my school, and my community. I saw him again on Lobby Day and was so surprised that he still recognized me! He encouraged me to keep advocating and standing up for what I believe in.

After attending Lobby Day, I now understand my role as an advocate so much better. Our parents voices MUST be heard – no excuses! Our children are our future leaders. I’m willing to stand on the front lines and advocate for my kids today so that they can live up to their potential tomorrow!