This year’s general election is underway.  It will likely have very low turnout, and it has very important implications for education in Mecklenburg County.  Because of the low turnout, your vote will have a much higher impact.  Please take 15 minutes out of your day to stop by one of the many convenient early voting locations and make your voice heard.

There is a quarter cent sales tax increase on the ballot.  The revenue will be transformative for arts and culture programs, will bring much needed improvements to parks and greenways, and will allow schools to hire additional support staff and teachers assistants.  I’m voting For.

Everyone also gets three votes for At Large Charlotte Mecklenburg School Board, which will greatly impact the direction our school district takes in the next four years.  These are my votes:

Elyse Dashew has been fantastic on her first term on the board.  She brings important experience, an incredible work ethic and accessibility, and a willingness to thoughtfully listen and fight for what is right for teachers and students.  We need Elyse back for another term!

Jennifer de la Jara has worked in education for nearly two decades, a lot of that serving Charlotte’s immigrant and refugee communities.  Her addition to the board will ensure that quickly-growing segment of our population is well represented.

Dr. Monty Witherspoon is a very well-respected minister at Steele Creek AME Zion.  He’s a CMS graduate but also has the experience of having struggled in our school system.  Rev. Witherspoon will bring a sharp focus on equity and a solid moral compass to the board.

Please spread the word and get out and vote, friends!!