GETTING INVOLVED EARLY
A native of Chicago, Friends of Nick Dirscherl started getting involved in community efforts in his teens. Throughout high school, he spent plenty of time volunteering with charities and even with neighborhood clean ups. Choosing to attend the University of Washington, Friends of Nick Dirscherl graduated with a Bachelor's in education and went on to Auburn University for a Master's in public administration.
A CALL FROM HOME
Returning home, he took a job teaching at Capital High and remained there for more than 10 years. For the last seven years he has worked as the communications director for Forward Think, a nonprofit dedicated to helping young adults succeed in education and business.
Nick Dirscherl was born in the Garfield Ridge neighborhood, where his family has lived for three generations. Growing up, he attended St. Joseph Catholic Parish. His interest in public policy and fighting for middle class began at a young age, where he took an interest in how cities operate in regards to middle class development.
He graduated University of Illinois, Chicago with a Bachelor's in Political Science, and then went on to receive a Master's in Urban Planning from UIC as well.
After graduation, he worked for the Departments of Planning and Zoning for the City of Chicago. In 2012, he was first elected as the Community Representative at the Local School Council at John F. Kennedy High School. While on the Council:
-He has supported the "IB" program, which is a world-class College Prep program
-He voted for the renewal of outstanding Principal George Szkapiak
-He supported the recruitment of kids from Private Elementary schools to attend Kennedy High
-He is passionately outspoken for increased awareness of Kennedy High as a first choice for neighborhood families