Every Voice Matters: Engage with Johnston School Board Issues

In a time when education feels more politicized than ever, it’s easy to wonder whether your voice still matters in local school decisions. The short answer? It does—and it must.

In Johnston, we are fortunate to have strong schools, caring teachers, and families who genuinely want the best for their kids. But when decisions feel distant or unclear, frustration can grow—and trust can erode. That’s where everyday community members come in.

If you’re a parent, student, educator, or taxpayer, you have a seat at the table. And whether you’ve spoken up before or not, your voice can help bring clarity, compassion, and common sense back into the conversation.

Here’s how to get engaged, why it matters, and how it can make a real difference in the future of our schools.

Why Engagement Matters More Than Ever

The Johnston School Board makes decisions that shape the educational experience for every student in the district. From curriculum and safety to budgets and policies, those choices ripple into our classrooms—and our homes.

But those decisions are better when they’re informed by diverse, everyday voices—not just the loudest ones or those with political platforms.

As someone who believes in listening before leading, I’m convinced that the best school board decisions happen when quiet, thoughtful voices feel welcome and empowered to speak up.

Ways You Can Get Involved (and Be Heard!)

You don’t have to be a policy expert or public speaker to participate. Here are some simple ways you can get involved—and stay involved:

Attend a Board Meeting

Board meetings are open to the public and typically held once a month.Before you go:

• Review the agenda (posted on the district site)

• Jot down any questions or concerns

• Use public comment time to speak up—even briefly

Your presence alone sends a message: We’re paying attention.

Join a Committee or Parent Group

Many advisory committees support areas like curriculum, facilities, and family engagement. These are great entry points for deeper involvement. Even informal parent groups can help amplify shared concerns.

Connect with Other Parents

• Chat at school events

• Start a text thread or Facebook group

• Organize a coffee or Zoom discussion on one key issue

  
  

When we talk to each other, we learn from each other—and that can lead to stronger, more unified engagement.

How to Be Heard (And Why It Matters)

You don’t need a microphone to make a difference. A thoughtful email to a board member, a handwritten letter, or a brief public comment can carry real weight.

Here’s what makes communication effective:

• Be respectful and clear (even when you disagree)

• Bring real-life examples

• Ask better questions instead of just making statements

Remember: Board members are elected to represent you. They need your input to lead well—and to lead fairly.

Breaking Down Barriers

It’s normal to feel unsure about getting involved. Here are some ways to overcome common hurdles:

• Not enough time? Share responsibilities with another parent or attend just one meeting a quarter.

• Nervous about public speaking? Start with a written comment. Or rehearse with a friend.

• Feel uninformed? Ask questions. There’s no shame in learning—it shows you care.

  
  

Real Change Starts With Real Voices

We’ve seen time and again: when communities engage, school boards listen. Whether it’s preserving academic excellence, protecting student well-being, or ensuring transparency in decision-making—change starts with people who care.

Not people shouting.

Not people performing.

People showing up.

People like you.

A Final Word

The strength of Johnston schools doesn’t come from top-down policies. It comes from the partnership between families, teachers, and those elected to serve. If I’m elected to the school board, that’s exactly what I’ll fight for—a return to clarity, compassion, and common sense.

But no matter who holds a seat, your voice belongs in the room.

So, take the first step.Attend a meeting.Write a letter.Encourage a friend to speak up.

Every voice matters. Yours especially.

Together, we can keep Johnston focused on what matters most: our kids, our classrooms, and our community.

Attend a Johnston School Board meeting!