Supporting Education and Innovation
Walter Moist – Candidate for Illinois Community High School District 155 Board of Education
*Election Date: April 1 Wally4.com *D155SchoolBoard@Wally4.com
Friends of Walter Moist Venmo: @Walter-Moist
Walter Moist is a dedicated leader, Marine Corps veteran, and healthcare management consultant committed to advancing education in Community High School District 155. As a father with a child entering high school, he understands firsthand the challenges students, parents, and educators face. His leadership experience, combined with a passion for service, positions him to champion academic success and ensure every student is prepared for future opportunities. Creating community charity during COVID-19, connecting local healthcare workers with free meals from independent businesses. Walter’s background as an Combat Engineer instilled in him a deep appreciation for labor and the trades, and his service on the McHenry County Housing Commission underscores his advocacy for workforce housing and infrastructure improvements. After Hurricane Katrina, Walter arrived in Baton Rouge and, through grit and determination, worked his way from emptying garbage to serving as Logistics Director for SELA, Houma. Without a college degree at the time, he proved that passion, resilience, and a willingness to learn can lead to impactful leadership. being rewarded as an Audience Member on Oprah's Favorite Things. During the housing crisis in 2010, Walter returned to school, earning two associate degrees from Elgin Community College, where he was named to Who’s Who Among Colleges and Universities for his leadership in student advocacy for a sustainable future, graduating with honors.
Walter Moist is not a conventional candidate, and he does not claim to be perfect. He has faced personal struggles, including mental health challenges, homelessness, and discrimination for identifying as queer under the "Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell" policies of the 1990s. His experiences with family members suffering from PTSD, addiction, and chronic mental illness have shaped his deep empathy for those facing adversity. As a father to a non-binary child, Walter is committed to fostering a safe and inclusive learning environment where every student is respected and affords the rights they deserve. He believes in advocating for those who are often overlooked, ensuring that education remains a tool for empowerment and success for all.
Walter has personally overcome the challenges of learning disabilities and understands the barriers many students face. He is a fierce advocate for inclusive learning, prioritizing expanded resources for special education services, language support, and individualized learning programs. His commitment extends to broadening access to academic clubs, intramural sports, and career pathways, ensuring all students have opportunities to thrive. By supporting mentorship programs and fostering public-private partnerships, he aims to enhance student opportunities while reducing the taxpayer burden.
A strong proponent of a well-rounded and future-focused education, Walter is dedicated to expanding curriculum offerings. His vision includes integrating local Native American histories, strengthening JROTC programs for Space and Air Force pathways, and providing practical career training in healthcare, computer science, and skilled trades. He believes in equipping students with the necessary skills to succeed in a competitive workforce, whether they pursue college, apprenticeships, or other career pathways.
Walter is committed to fiscal responsibility and environmental stewardship, advocating responsible bidding practices, union labor partnerships, and long-term investments in energy-efficient infrastructure. His plan includes integrating emerging technologies, creating collaborative learning spaces, and prioritizing sustainability initiatives that lower costs and benefit future generations. He believes that responsible governance can balance financial prudence with necessary investments that ensure a thriving school district.
