In 2002, I became involved in Kansas public education advocacy through a Planned Parenthood statewide campaign to protect comprehensive sex education. Through that campaign, I developed a deeper understanding of the role of public education in our communities. I would go on to serve as an enthusiastic 20-year USD 497 volunteer, including two terms on its Board of Education and three times as elected President of the Board.

As a twenty-two-year public education advocate, under existing external pressures, this certainly is not the moment to walk away. Public education faces federal-level attacks and increasingly complex Kansas state funding formulas— so I believe it’s more important than ever to advocate for strong, equitable, and well-resourced schools. I am eager to continue working collaboratively with board colleagues, our new superintendent, LEA bargaining units, and our community to build on Lawrence Public Schools’ strengths and address our challenges.

-Kelly Jones (she/her), LMSW