Jeanne Ives, founder of Breakthrough Ideas, expressed concerns about graphic content in Illinois public schools, specifically citing issues at Shepard Middle School. Her statement was made on the social media platform X.
“This is Pritzker’s Illinois public school system,” said M Ives. “Careful, this guy doesn’t hold back and puts out the graphic details about what is in Shepard Middle School.”
In early 2025, Shepard Middle School in Deerfield, Illinois, became embroiled in controversy following a student’s allegation that she was compelled to change clothes in front of a transgender classmate. This incident prompted a federal Title IX investigation into District 109 by the U.S. Department of Education.
According to WBEZ Chicago, parental complaints regarding locker room and curriculum content increased significantly in Deerfield during 2025. Several families voiced concerns about privacy and school policies, although officials assured that private changing stalls are available for all students.
ABC 7 Chicago reports that Illinois has witnessed a trend of school districts enhancing curriculum transparency and revising facility policies in response to parental concerns. At least 15 districts have updated their procedures concerning restroom and locker room access between 2024 and 2025.
Ives is a former Illinois state representative (2013–2019), a West Point graduate, and the founder of Breakthrough Ideas. She is recognized for her work on fiscal responsibility and education policy within the state.
Breakthrough Ideas was founded around 2023 and is based in Wheaton, Illinois. According to its official website, the organization aims to advance taxpayer rights, transparency, and cultural issues through grassroots engagement and media outreach.
