President, Ashley Mims

Since 2017, I’ve served as Secretary of Local 434, and in 2022, I took on the role of Public Relations Chair. Representing our members is something I take seriously—and personally. I show up, communicate clearly, and put in the time to be prepared.

To better serve in leadership, I have completed trainings in both the grievance process and collective bargaining—equipping me with the tools to advocate for our members confidently and effectively. I’m also a member of the IFT Next Generation Committee, where we focus on issues that primarily affect Tier 2 members and write resolutions to bring those concerns forward. As part of the first group of teachers impacted by Tier 2, I make it a priority to stay up to date on retirement legislation. Last fall, I joined fellow educators at a rally in Springfield to push for a more equitable system.

I’ve been an English teacher at the West campus since 2011, and I still find genuine joy in being in the classroom. My husband, Lucas, also teaches English at West. We live in Belleville, and our oldest is a freshman at Belleville West. Our two younger daughters, ages 3 and 4, will one day be District 201 students, too.
​
This district isn’t just where I work—it’s where I live, where I raise my family, and where I’ve chosen to dedicate my professional life. I am fully invested in our schools, our students, and our union. I am ready to lead with transparency, purpose, and heart.

​​