Melissa Walker for Linn-Mar School Board: A voice for education

I am a mom, wife and passionate community member. My husband Todd is a graduate of Linn-Mar and is now in his 20th year teaching for the district. We are the proud parents of two amazing teens at Linn-Mar High School. Education is a critically important value to our family. I believe our educational system holds the power to shape our entire community’s future.

Creating and sustaining a successful school system requires many key elements, which must include an effective school board. Marginalized groups of students need a voice willing and able to speak out. Youth from low- and middle-income families need someone to advocate for equal opportunities to participate in activities across our district. Students, teachers and parents need someone to listen and give them a voice in decisions impacting their education. Students need role models with skills to critically evaluate data and engage in respectful dialogue to find common ground and make sound decisions.

One of my core values is giving back to my community. I have been leading community-based change for the last 20 years, and I am ready to bring those skills and passion to the school board. I have a deep passion for children and education, a solid background in leading non-profit organizations and both the experience and desire to support the district in each core areas of their strategic plan. In addition to being a typical parent and volunteer, I also have the added perspective of a spouse who has served as an educator in the district for the past 20 years, insight as a multicultural family within the district, and 12 years of experience navigating special education. I believe I can join the school board as an asset instead of an adversary and truly help enhance our district’s growth over the next four years.

Melissa Walker is a candidate for Linn-Mar School Board.