A Fresh Vision for

District 7

Michael Taplin – Investing in Students. Supporting Teachers. Strengthening Our Community.

meet michael

Built by District 7. Ready to Give Back.

District 7 gave me more than an education—it gave me the foundation to succeed. From the speech therapy I received in my early childhood to the opportunities that prepared me for the future, my experiences in our schools helped shape the person I am today. Now, I’m ready to give back by serving on the Board of Education. I want to help ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed, every teacher and staff member has the support they need to excel, and every decision reflects transparency, fiscal responsibility, and a commitment to keeping our schools strong for generations to come.

campaign Priorities:

Support Every Student

Expand academic support services so every student has the opportunity to succeed.

Empower Teachers

Provide educators with high-quality curriculum, resources, and the flexibility to deliver engaging instruction.

Invest in Great Educators

Recruit and retain outstanding teachers and staff by investing in support and professional growth.

Practice Fiscal Responsibility

Spend taxpayer dollars wisely while advocating for fair state funding to strengthen our schools.

Your Questions, Answered

District 7 invested in me from an early age through speech therapy, outstanding teachers, and a quality public education. Those experiences shaped who I am today, and I want to give back to the district that gave me so much. My goal is to help every student succeed while ensuring District 7 remains a place our community is proud to call home.

My priorities are supporting students who need additional academic assistance, recruiting and retaining outstanding teachers and staff, ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly, and maintaining open communication with our community. Every decision I make will be guided by one question: How does this improve the education our students receive?

I bring a combination of professional marketing and communications experience, nonprofit board leadership, community volunteer service, and firsthand knowledge of District 7. Through my service on the District 7 Equity Advisory Committee and involvement with local organizations, I've worked alongside educators, parents, and community leaders while learning how thoughtful leadership can strengthen our schools.

I'll listen to all perspectives, review the facts, and make decisions based on what is best for students, teachers, and the long-term success of the district. I believe board members should be transparent, collaborative, fiscally responsible, and willing to ask thoughtful questions before making important decisions.

I'm running because I care deeply about District 7 and the future of our community. I bring a fresh perspective, a lifelong connection to our schools, and a commitment to listening, working collaboratively, and making thoughtful decisions. My focus isn't on politics—it's on supporting students, empowering teachers, and ensuring District 7 continues to provide an excellent education for every child.

District 7 Challenges

& Opportunities

As District 7 continues to grow and our students' needs evolve, we have an opportunity to build on our strong foundation while thoughtfully addressing the challenges and opportunities ahead. I believe the best path forward is one that brings together students, families, educators, staff, and the community to make informed decisions that strengthen our schools for generations to come.

Get involved

Whether you'd like to attend an event, display a yard sign, or stay up to date with the campaign, I'd love to connect with you. Every conversation, volunteer, and supporter helps strengthen our campaign and our community.


"Education
is one of the best
Investments we can make becuase
strong schools create stronger communities"
– Michael Taplin

Trusted Voices, Powerful Support

Featured Endorsements & Contributor Spotlights

“I gave $15 because Lukas listens. They show up. They care. That’s what leadership looks like.”

Edwardsville's 3rd Ward Alderman & Former D7 Parent

“Lukas is exactly the kind of bold, honest leader we need right now. Their vision is grounded in fairness, justice, and opportunity for all.”

U.S. Senator, Environmental Advocate

"I’ve never donated to a campaign before, but Lukas’s compassion for working people and commitment to healthcare reform moved me to give. This isn’t just politics — it’s personal."

Retired Nurse & First-Time Donor

“Lukas has always stood with educators and students. We proudly endorse their campaign for a stronger public school system.”

Education Union

Lukas inspired me to vote for the first time — and now I’m helping others do the same.”

College student & campaign volunteer

get in touch

Have a question or IDEA?

I'd love to hear from you.