Voter Guide: Discover the Top 10 Candidates in Columbus School Board Primary Election
Editor's Note: The final segment of Teressa Hanah's profile has been updated for accuracy.
In the upcoming May primary election, voters within the Columbus City Schools district will have their choice among ten contenders vying for office.
None of the present board members who have terms ending this year, President Michael Cole along with members Ramona Reyes and Christina Vera, are seeking reelection .
Last year, the state's biggest district faced numerous difficulties, notably a contentious school closure procedure which sparked significant public dissent. released files about managing school resistance , an ongoing threat of defunding in the state’s two-year budget proposal and queries about whether the Trump administration might likewise jeopardize funding because of this diversity, equity, and inclusion strategies in districts .
On Election Day, voters have the option to select up to three candidates. Only the six leading contenders from the primary will advance to compete for the three available seats in the November general election.
Several groups have shown support during the primary election. The Franklin County Democratic Party along with the Equity Now Coalition have backed Patrick Katzenmoyer, Jermaine Kennedy, and Antoinette Miranda. Additionally, the Columbus Education Association, which represents educators within the school system, has supported Patrick Katzenmoyer, Janeece Keyes, and Antoinette Miranda.
The primary election in Ohio will take place on May 6, with polling stations available from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
The details provided here were submitted by candidates in response to a questionnaire.
Columbus school board candidates
Liz Caslin-Turner
Age: 31
Campaign website: lizturner4ohio.org
Key issues: High-quality education for every student, clear accountability measures, and enhanced ties within the community.
Background: Collaborates with the nonprofit educational group called Communities In Schools. Functions as a special education aide and teaches classes in various institutions including Southwestern, Hilliard, Whitehall, and Columbus City Schools. Participated as an intern in leadership roles within Columbus City Schools. Held positions as an assistant principal and managed programs for postsecondary and technical education at the Ohio Department of Higher Education. Also served as a regional director at Sylvan Learning Centers across Central Ohio.
What makes you the most suitable applicant for this position? I understand personally just how essential it is for students to receive appropriate support to thrive. My journey growing up with dyslexia showed me that each child’s route is distinct; however, collaboration can lead to achievement. This realization fueled my enduring enthusiasm for education and dedication to making sure all children get equal chances. Over the past ten years, I’ve dedicated myself to closing educational gaps—whether they be between institutions and families, policies and practices, or conventional methods and new ideas. In roles such as a senior program manager at the Ohio Department of Higher Education and as part of the Columbus City Schools’ Academic and Facility Alignment Committee, I’ve concentrated on developing practical solutions centered around fairness, openness, and academic excellence. With hands-on classroom experience, teacher backing, and advocacy efforts at both local and statewide levels under my belt, I am eager to contribute my deep-seated passion and extensive knowledge to this position. Each student faces their own challenges, yet with adequate assistance, achieving success remains within reach. Committed to advocating for reduced class sizes, robust collaborations, and creative strategies that ready our young people for promising futures while recognizing the pivotal community anchor function played by our schools—I’m prepared to make these aspirations reality.
Teresa Hannah
Campaign website: hannahforccsboe.com
Key issues: Equality in education: making sure every student has access to top-notch educational chances and assistance. Preparing for careers and boosting academic success: broadening options for vocational skills, raising graduation rates, and getting ready for higher education to equip students with what they'll need after leaving high school. Openness and reliability: restoring faith via clear dialogue, being answerable, and fostering deeper involvement from the local community.
Background: The founder of STEPP Forward LLC, an organization providing educational assistance, focuses on aiding K-12 students and their families. With over three decades of expertise spanning IT, education, project management, paralegal studies, and community involvement, this individual has worked across various sectors including public, private, and charter schools, along with the Aspire Adult Workforce Readiness Program. They have served as a parental advisor, championing family participation and support for adult learners, and actively participates in volunteer roles such as organizing report card meetings. Although they haven’t held political office, they bring extensive experience in leadership, teamwork, and dedication towards serving every student within the Columbus City Schools district.
What makes you the most suitable applicant for this position? I stand out as the ideal candidate due to my extensive background spanning more than three decades across various fields including IT, project management, education, paralegal studies, and community involvement—all driven by an unwavering dedication to supporting student achievement. Throughout my career, I have collaborated extensively with both educational institutions and families to enhance support systems and guarantee equitable resource distribution among children so they can flourish. This expertise encompasses service at different types of schools—public, private, and charters—as well as efforts aimed at preparing adults for employment via the Aspire Program. Roles such as those of a parent advisor, promoter of parental participation, and contributor in events like report card meetings underscore my hands-on understanding of the obstacles faced by communities and educators alike; this insight informs my approach to compassionate yet accountable collaboration and leadership. My focus includes optimizing business processes to propel our school district ahead and working alongside key figures within governance structures such as board members, superintendents, treasurers, and administrative staff. My candidacy isn’t about personal prestige—it centers around amplifying voices from every segment of our learning environment: students, guardians, teachers, and broader society. What we require now is transformative guidance characterized by openness, fairness, and pragmatic strategies. Through these lenses, I aim to restore confidence, boost scholarly performance, and champion initiatives equipping learners for post-graduation opportunities ranging from higher education to careers and entrepreneurial ventures.
Patrick Katzenmeyer
Age: 40
Campaign website: KatzenmeyerfortheKids.com
Key issues: Forming an effective, forward-thinking, and steady board of education. Tackling the issue of school infrastructure in a manner that involves all stakeholders including parents, educators, support staff, and those affected to collaborate on finding solutions. Building alliances with trade unions for enhancing workforce training programs, and forging connections with local businesses for promoting initiatives at the state level.
Background: In 2006, she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Ohio University, followed by an MBA from The Ohio State University in 2010. From 2006 to 2009, she served as an LSC intern, legislative aide, policy analyst, and senior policy analyst working with Joyce Beatty at the Ohio House of Representatives. She then acted as a special assistant focusing on economic development for Governor Ted Strickland’s office between 2009 and 2011. In 2012, she was appointed policy director for Obama for America. During her tenure from 2013 to 2015, she oversaw the creation and establishment of Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams scoop shops as their shop director. Since 2015, she has been managing public-sector and non-profit infrastructure initiatives—from initial planning stages all the way through completion—as a senior project manager at Pizzuti Solutions. Her wife, Liz, currently holds a position at the YWCA. They have three children named Carolyn (aged nine), Russell (seven years old), and Maribell (four years young).
What makes you the most suitable applicant for this position? My spouse and I have three children within this district—we’ll remain here for at least another 14 years. It’s crucial that individuals deeply invested in our community serve on the board. Over the past decade, I’ve focused on extensive public sector initiatives involving infrastructure development and urban planning—efforts that unite governmental bodies with local communities to construct essential structures such as community hubs, municipal buildings, libraries, and cultural venues. One prime instance would be the newly unveiled Fran Ryan Center, developed where Douglas Elementary once stood. I aim to leverage my background in managing these types of projects along with cooperative strategic planning toward improving our school district’s facility alignment strategy when joining the school board. Additionally, having served previously at the Statehouse provided insight into effective political lobbying—a skill set necessary as we continue advocating successfully from Capitol Square. My campaign has received support from key groups including the Connecticut Education Association (CEA) representing teachers, OAPSE-AFSCME supporting classified staff members, the Equity Now Coalition alongside Urban League chapters, Columbus Building Trades unions, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty, City Council President Shannon Hardin, Vice Mayor Rob Dorans, among others.
Jermaine Kennedy
Age: 43
Campaign website: drj4ccs.com
Key issues: Advancing educational equity by ensuring all students, regardless of background, have access to high-quality learning, support and opportunity. Strengthening community trust and transparency in district decision-making through authentic engagement and clear, consistent communication. Expanding career and college readiness pathways that connect students to real-world experiences and future success.
Background: Educator, youth development leader and currently the chief program officer at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Ohio. Earned doctorate in educational administration from The Ohio State University and brings over 20 years of experience in youth development, education leadership and community engagement. CCS parent, former Family Ambassador in the district and lifelong advocate for equity. Running for office for the first time, driven by deep commitment to students, families and building a school system that works for everyone.
Why are you the best candidate? I'm running for the Columbus City Schools Board of Education because I possess the firsthand experiences, leadership skills, and strong ties within our community needed during these critical times. With past roles as an educator and principal, I have a clear understanding of what goes on inside classrooms. Being a parent myself—one child has graduated from CCS while another continues their education here—I am aware of the challenges faced by many families. Additionally, serving as chief program officer at BGCCO, I've established numerous successful partnerships and initiatives benefiting thousands of young individuals throughout the city. This isn’t uncharted territory for me; I’ve dedicated more than two decades to fostering youth development, promoting equitable education opportunities, and constructing frameworks that support student success. What distinguishes me is my capacity to engage actively through listening, collaboration, and leading with empathy alongside precision. My vision involves establishing a school board reflective of those it represents. Ready to contribute fully—as an educator, parent, voice for advocacy, and connector between communities—my approach centers around being deeply rooted in our local environment, concentrating efforts on enhancing outcomes for every student, and always inspired by continuous learning processes. These principles aren’t merely part of my election platform but form the core values guiding how I aim to steer Columbus City Schools forward.
Janeece Keyes
Age: 56
Campaign website: Facebook page
Key issues: Addressing chronic absence requires tackling obstacles to regular school participation through family involvement, educator assistance, and evidence-based strategies. To enhance student success and support, we must guarantee every learner has access to high-quality instruction, psychological services, and professional tracks. Building robust connections among parents, instructors, and local communities can foster an increasingly nurturing educational setting.
Background: The Director of Provider Experience at Ohio’s Bureau of Workers' Compensation ensures that healthcare providers receive proper training and support. This individual possesses a Master’s degree in Public Administration and Leadership along with a Bachelor’s degree in Strategic Communication. They are an ardent supporter of educational initiatives. While juggling several roles, they raised four children who graduated from Columbus City Schools. In 2022, they were appointed Commissioner of the City of Columbus' Development Commission by Mayor Andrew Ginther. Leveraging their skills in leadership, strategic planning, and personal insight gained through parenting, this person aims to foster significant improvements on the Columbus City School Board.
What makes you the most suitable applicant for this position? I'm the ideal candidate for the Columbus City School Board due to my firsthand experiences, professional acumen, and unwavering focus on fostering student achievement. Having successfully brought up four children who graduated from Columbus City Schools myself, I empathize deeply with the hurdles faced by local families and recognize what our kids require to flourish academically and personally. My extensive history volunteering within these schools alongside my role directing provider relations at Ohio’s Bureau of Workers' Compensation has honed essential competencies like effective policy execution, stakeholder interaction, and strategic foresight—essential qualities needed to enhance educational standards. Furthermore, serving as a commissioner for the Columbus Development Commission highlights my steadfast commitment to promoting equitable development across communities. Equipped with an advanced degree in public administration and leadership, I prioritize evidence-based choices when making decisions. The capability to manage intricate systems, champion students’ needs, and cooperate seamlessly with teachers and parents positions me uniquely to spearhead significant advancements within Columbus City Schools.
Karrie Lumpkin
Campaign website: Facebook page
Key issues: Partnerships within the community that enhance outcomes for every student, develop the workforce, and create chances for graduates via economic expansion.
Background: An individual who has been employed for 34 years at the Ohio Attorney General’s Office. Holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in business management from Ohio Dominican University. Is married to Douglas Lumpkin and takes pride in being a mother of two boys and grandmother of two grandkids. Has served as an OCSEA board member for 34 years and acted as a Union Steward for seven years.
What makes you the most suitable applicant for this position? From my 34-year tenure at the Ohio Attorney General’s office, I've grasped the significance of how concentrated taxpayer funds can lead to specific objectives and goals. Additionally, through my role as a union steward, I recognize that achieving success hinges on cooperation and collective effort towards shared aims. My experience with the Attorney General’s Crime Victims' Unit has taught me that amidst dire situations, there remains room for optimism and prospects of better days ahead along with successful futures. As part of the board, our priority must center around realizing these necessary outcomes and fostering teamwork to equip staff members adequately so that every student realizes their fullest capabilities.
Mounir Lynch
Age: 28
Campaign website: mounirforschools.com
Key issues: Establishing supportive and affirmative educational settings; removing obstacles to student success and achievements; and involving students, faculty, and parents in choices that mold public schools.
Background: A professional adept in both public health education and community organizing, this individual has substantial expertise in fostering connections within educational and healthcare settings. Currently affiliated with AndHealth, they assist community health facilities in implementing strategies to prevent infectious diseases and actively involve patients in these initiatives. They also hold an influential position on the Board of Directors for the Abortion Fund of Ohio. Their career includes active participation in various political campaigns along with extensive teaching experiences in classrooms. Previously serving as a community health educator at Planned Parenthood, their role entailed delivering comprehensive sessions across almost all middle and high schools under the Columbus City Schools district, often spending up to two weeks per institution. This dedicated professional earned dual degrees: a Bachelor of Science focused on Public and Community Health Promotion and Education, alongside a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish, both obtained from the University of Cincinnati.
What makes you the most suitable applicant for this position? I offer a distinctive viewpoint shaped by personal experiences and varied professional skills. Having graduated from Columbus City Schools, I’m familiar with the successes and hurdles faced by our school system. With my background in public health and prior role as an educator, I've actively tackled these issues directly. My initiatives aimed at enhancing students' wellbeing, fostering safer and more inclusive educational environments, and collaborating with communities to develop comprehensive support systems have all been geared towards ensuring equitable outcomes across different fields. My approach emphasizes understanding intricate organizational structures like those found in public health sectors while prioritizing the input of affected individuals. This ensures we advocate for policies aligned with shared principles and aspirations. Recognizing that traditional methods haven’t always served our community adequately, particularly concerning economic adaptation and academic progress, I believe change driven by youthful insight can lead to better preparation for future challenges without compromising readiness or capability. Despite occasional criticisms about youth potentially hindering effective governance, I argue that bringing innovative perspectives alongside solid qualifications positions me ideally to guide Columbus City Schools through upcoming uncertainties and potential disruptions. It’s essential to create an environment where Columbus City Schools stands out not just as a learning institution but also as a premier workplace. Every day, I aim to drive improvements making sure our schools excel under my leadership.
Kimberley Mason
Campaign website: Facebook page
Key issues: Workforce Development: Reimagining pathways that are straightforward and purposeful in providing curricula which include practical, significant learning experiences for aspiring leaders to acquire the skills necessary for success. Strategic Conversations: Fostering collaborative alliances and intersector collaborations linking educators, parents, community groups, and local entities. Community Investment: Eliminating corporate subsidies and reallocating these resources towards an endowment funded by enterprises benefiting from tax breaks, granting such incentives to nonprofits and community bodies working closely with Columbus City Schools.
Background: With over 17 years of experience spanning various sectors such as mental health, finance, and academia, I possess a versatile skill set ideal for leadership positions. My expertise includes managing intricate operations, communicating proficiently, and leading teams towards achieving strategic objectives. Holding a Master’s degree in Public Administration with an emphasis on organizational leadership has equipped me with robust knowledge in areas like governance, policy evaluation, and effective leadership techniques. As both a parent and a local taxpayer, my personal involvement in the community further fuels my commitment to fostering its prosperity and wellbeing.
What makes you the most suitable applicant for this position? I recognize that supporting individuals from various backgrounds and fostering systemic transformation requires a servant leader dedicated to prioritizing development and collective welfare above personal goals. As someone with experience both professionally and within the community, I bring a distinctive viewpoint to addressing the needs and hurdles faced by those whom I wish to assist. From championing mental health resources and fiscal education to enhancing educational opportunities, my varied background equips me to tackle these issues comprehensively, offering pragmatic resolutions grounded in profound insight into each challenge. Additionally, being an active participant in the community motivates me toward achieving enduring progress. With these credentials coupled alongside my dedication to the district, I feel fully prepared to fulfill the duties of this role efficiently and instigate beneficial transformations.
Antoinette Miranda
Age: 66
Campaign website: Facebook page
Key issues: Involvement from parents and the broader community, fair distribution of resources, along with school board leaders who demonstrate honesty, openness, and responsibility.
Background: A professor specializing in school psychology and serving as the head of the Department of Teaching and Learning at The Ohio State University. He obtained his Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology, along with a Master of Education and a Ph.D., all in school psychology, from the University of Cincinnati. During his tenure, he completed two terms on the State Board of Education for District 6. A long-term inhabitant of Columbus, where his offspring also finished their education in Columbus public schools.
What makes you the most suitable applicant for this position? I am exceptionally well-suited to join the school board due to my extensive involvement with Columbus City Schools over the last 37 years, both professionally and personally. Having prepared school psychologists and educators at Ohio State University has equipped me with a comprehensive view of education. Additionally, my long-standing relationship with Columbus City Schools has endowed me with an intricate comprehension of the issues and prospects facing inner-city educational institutions. I hold firm belief in each student’s potential and understand that robust leadership, openness, and dedication to fairness will enable us to deliver top-notch education for everyone. I trust our teachers completely. Collaboratively, we can develop a superior and more efficient schooling framework that caters to every young person in our neighborhood. I stand behind our students wholeheartedly; therefore, I present myself as your nominee for the position on the Columbus City School Board.
Julie Trabold
At present, Julie Trabold has not provided completed questionnaire responses.
Further reporting on Columbus City Schools
The article initially appeared in The Columbus Dispatch. Election Guide: Get to Know 10 Candidates Running for Columbus School Board in the May 6 Primary Election
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