All four candidates running in the Nov. 7, 2023, general election for Worthington Schools Board of Education At-large — Leah Breakey (nonpartisan), Amber Epling (nonpartisan), Erik Farley (nonpartisan), and Stephanie Harless (nonpartisan) — completed Ballotpedia’s Candidate Connection survey. These survey responses allow voters to hear directly from candidates about what motivates them to run for office.
Here are the candidates’ responses to the question: What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?
Breakey:
- “You can help us bring balance to our school board in Worthington. By electing two conservative candidates we will represent those conservative voices that are currently unheard.
- I will work to reinstate our contract with the local police department to bring back School Resource Officers. In 2020 our board terminated this contract for political reason and against the advice of the administrators. This decision has left our students vulnerable and unprotected.
- Fiscal responsibility is imperative for our residents. Electing two fiscal conservative board members will allow us to move toward our goal of reducing our dependence on levies.”
Epling:
- “I have the endorsement of the Worthington Education Association and the Worthington teachers.
- I am a proud product of public schools and purposely chose Worthington Schools for my children. I am a strong supporter of the mission of public education.
- I have the skills and experience to meet this historic moment.”
Farley:
- “The Worthington School Board must return to fiscal responsibility to the taxpayer. It relies on endless permanent levies to balance the budget. This must end, and it will end, by electing two fiscal conservatives to the board in this election.
- The current school board terminated our school resource officer (SRO) program for political reasons, leading to a host of problems which are being ignored. Again, electing two common-sense candidates now allows us to recover quickly from this error.
- Academics have declined unacceptably in the Worthington School District. Proficiency levels are shockingly low, while the board concentrates on politics. An academic focus must be restored, and agenda-driven policies must be rejected outright.”
Harless:
- “I will ensure that we are listening to all voices throughout the district. Worthington Schools is comprised of neighborhoods from across Central Ohio and all of those voices should be prioritized and considered when make decisions as a board.
- I will prioritize mental health initiatives for our students, teachers, staff, and administrators. We are facing a mental health crisis in this country at all age levels and I will work with experts the support existing initiatives and expand our offerings.
- I will work closely with elected officials and key stakeholders throughout the district to identify additional funding for our schools including grants, donations, and development that brings additional revenue to our schools.”
Click on the candidates’ profile pages below to read their full responses to this and other questions.
We ask all federal, state, and local candidates with profiles on Ballotpedia to complete a survey and share what motivates them on political and personal levels. Ask the candidates in your area to fill out the survey.
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