During the petition and nomination phase of my campaign, I was thrilled to introduce myself to community members and was heartened by the warm responses I received. Collecting signatures was an exhilarating part of this process, as securing them is essential for official nomination as a candidate. Engaging in activities such as door-to-door canvassing, participating in Trunk-or-Treat events, and meeting parents during school dismissals provided valuable opportunities to connect with community members and gather the necessary signatures to become a candidate
On the early morning of November 12, 2024, I arrived at the Elections Operation office in Cicero, Illinois, eager to participate in the lottery that would determine ballot positions for candidates. I was fortunate to win this lottery, making Pereson- Estrada the first choice on the ballot and hopefully the first choice for the people.
That morning, I had the privilege of meeting dedicated individuals from various parts of Cook County, all running for school board positions, whether as incumbents or newcomers. Filing my paperwork filled me with immense joy, marking the beginning of the journey I was about to embark on.
During the winter months, we focused on developing an online social media platform, as traditional canvassing was not feasible due to the weather and holiday season. In addition to our digital campaign, we began collaborating with 'Neighbors for Elmwood Park Library' and their candidates—Meredith Zinanni, Amy Prechel, and Jack Bower.
On February 11, 2025, I had the honor of participating in Elmwood Park's first candidate forum in decades, hosted by the nonpartisan League of Women Voters of Oak Park and River Forest. While there were moments of anxiety, I am grateful for the opportunity to share my views with the community. I believe this forum was an integral part of democracy and accountability.
The forum provided a platform for candidates to discuss their visions and engage with voters, fostering transparency and informed decision-making. Such events are vital for strengthening community ties and ensuring that elected officials are responsive to the needs and concerns of their constituents.