HUGE Thank you to all!

Thank you so much to so many who did so much to make this victory possible. My name was one the ballot but behind that were so very many people. A more detailed thank you is to follow when I can focus and don't feel like a campaign has hit me! For now, you know who you are!
Lisa :)

Akron Beacon Journal endorses Lisa Mansfield

The Akron Beacon Journal Endorsement is out!!! Read below!

For the Akron school board
Our choices : Jason Haas , Lisa Mansfield , Mexie Wilson and Ginger Baylor
The race for the Akron Board of Education this fall has been strikingly low key. The quiet belies the importance of this election during a critical transitional phase for the Akron Public Schools . The district is in the middle of an $ 800 million construction project, an investment that is providing up-to-date facilities in neighborhoods. At the same time, declining enrollment demands a strategy for downsizing that will not hamper educational opportunities . The district must find new and effective ways to raise achievement. Financing the schools will require similar determination and creativity. The seven - member school board itself is in transition. Of the four incumbents up for re - election , three have chosen to leave the board at the end of their
terms in December . A fifth plans to vacate his seat early in 2010. The new and inexperienced board members will face a steep learning curve as their four- year terms begin.
Voters must choose four from a field of eight candidates.

We recommend the election of Jason A. Haas, Lisa Mansfield, Mexie J. Wilson and Ginger Baylor on Nov . 3. Jason Haas , the only incumbent in the race, was elected in 2007 to fill an unexpired term. A grants program analyst with the Summit County Department of Community and Economic Development , he has spent the time productively, getting up to speed on critical board functions, from the budget to the planning and timetables of the school year. He shows
a solid grasp of the district’s many challenges. His priorities include a 10 - point increase in the graduation rate, a high school to follow up on the new STEM middle school , attention to the problems of middle - school students and careful analysis of budget commitments before any levy request. Haas offers a strong background in grants research, economic planning and personnel management. On a largely inexperienced board, his presence promises much- needed continuity.

Lisa Mansfield is the patron services manager at Weathervane Playhouse and a former substitute teacher in the district. She shows keen interest in promoting academic quality and efficiency in the district’s operations. Mansfield holds a balanced perspective of the strengths and weaknesses of the district, recognizing , for example, the strides the district has made and its attentiveness to intervention and alternative programs. She also understands the urgency
to raise performance levels, among other steps, by training teachers specifically to address the needs in inner- city schools. Appealing about her candidacy is her strong commitment to engage parents more extensively as partners in education . She fully supports
Superintendent David James’ emphasis on ‘‘ customer service ’ ’ as critical to promoting shared responsibility for the performance of the schools.

Mexie Wilson is the Northeast Ohio marketing representative for the Ohio Tuition Trust Authority, the state’s college savings plan. She also is an experienced youth organizer for civic and political projects. A former substitute teacher, Wilson is eager to see the district’s performance rise above mediocre. She is well - versed in hip - hop culture and sees its potential as a tool to connect with students in a nontraditional way . Wilson is bright, energetic and brimming with
ideas , from increasing community involvement to fundraising partnerships with local businesses . S he promises to be a particular asset on the school board , providing a bridge to urban youths whose perspective often isn’t taken into account on the board.

Ginger Baylor is an assistant professor at the University of Akron . She taught for 10 years as a substitute in the Akron schools and was an instructor for the Akron Urban League ’ s ASSET program. She stresses her communication skills and her ability to assess and resolve complex problems, plus her broad experience as an educator and a motivator working
with both children and adults. Baylor understands well that strong schools make strong communities. Sh e places priority on the Akron schools offering diverse programs so that every student can succeed. Th e remaining four candidates show an eagerness to serve and a genuine concern about raising performance levels in the district, stemming the decline in enrollment, actively engaging parents in the schools and increasing options for career education .

T hey are Bruce D. Alexander , superintendent of the Summit County juvenile detention facility; Virgil A. Ortiz , a customer service representative for Mesaba Airlines; Rita M. Hosch, a retired teacher with 27 years of experience in the Akron schools; and Dianna Smith , a senior in business administration at Kent State University.

Good things are happening with the AEA (Akron Education Association) endorsement, followed by Tri-county Labor, and today Teamsters Local 348!!

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Webchat tonight beginning at 7 p.m.!

Join Lisa Mansfield right here for a live webchat beginning at 7 p.m. Sunday evening.

Lisa will take your questions live from the Nervous Dog Coffee House, 1530 W. Market Street, in Akron.

So stop for coffee with Lisa .. or join the fun via the Internet.

See you tonight!

West Side Leader Postion Paper

What are the two most important issues facing the district and how would you address them?

I believe that the most important issues facing the Akron Public Schools are adjusting the budget and school buildings to reflect enrollment and reaching achievement levels that prepare students for the global job market.

The state needs to address the school funding formula. Most of the headway that the Governor called for this year was eventually eaten away by state legislators. Meanwhile, urban districts like Akron need to be fiscally responsible by adjusting our schools to match changing enrollment and making cuts when necessary. These cuts need to be kept as far away from the classroom as possible with a minimal affect on achievement.

Akron continues to match or surpass Ohio’s eight urban districts in the state report card. There were many reasons to celebrate this year with several Akron schools making strides. Much work remains if we hope to reach an Effective rating. Many of the programs instituted this year to help our district’s most at-risk students will hopefully continue to improve these scores. Meanwhile, the addition of the STEM school and the continuation of academic success at Miller South show the district isn’t just treading water but is striving for Excellence.
Achievement cannot take place unless our students and parents are confident about school safety. The district’s zero tolerance policy needs to continue with more than just a shuffling of students between school buildings. Intervention opportunities, such as the latest suspension program recently implemented in the former Erie Island School, will address some of the underlying reasons that children misbehave and will prepare them to be successful when they return to the classroom environment. Parental involvement and participation is key to achievement. Success is often within reach when parents partner with teachers in a student’s education.

What makes you the best candidate for this position?
I am a third-generation graduate of the Akron Public Schools and the mother to three sons currently enrolled in the district. I have one each in high school, middle school and elementary. With this legacy comes an historical perspective on where the district has been, a vested interest in where we are now and a vision of where we need to go. I have spent time connecting with parents from many Akron schools to learn their concerns, and I’m confident that our parents passionately want their children to succeed.
Education has always been a focus in my life. I earned a B.A. in Secondary Education from The University of Akron in 1990 with a concentration in English and History. I student-taught at Garfield High School and served as a substitute throughout the district. I was blessed to be able to stay home when my children were first born before returning to the workforce as they entered school. Still, while I was not in a traditional classroom, education dominated my volunteer time. I led La Leche League meetings to help mothers with breastfeeding and toddler issues, worked with teen moms through the Children Services’ program “Mentoring Mothers” and taught expectant mothers at Pregnancy Care on North Hill.
As Patron Services Manager at Weathervane Playhouse, I often interact with Akron Public Schools students both in and out of the classroom. I helped write curriculum, introduced Kindergarten students to theater concepts through “Akron After School” and served as director of “Neighborhood Playhouse,” a free, two-week summer camp in 2007 and 2008.
My experience, commitment and passion make me the best candidate for Akron School Board.

Want to read what the others have to say?? see the full article at http://www.akron.com/pages.asp?aID=6834

Lisa Mansfield invites everyone to coffee and webchat!

LISA MANSFIELD INVITES VOTERS TO WEBCHAT, COFFEE GET-TOGETHER
Akron School Board candidate connects with parents and others through technology at local coffee house

AKRON -- Lisa Mansfield, candidate for Akron School Board, invites the public to share their ideas for the school district during a webchat and coffee get-together on Sunday, Oct. 18, from 7-8:30 p.m. at the Nervous Dog Coffee Bar, 1530 W. Market Street.

Lisa hopes voters will stop by and share a cup of coffee, and those who cannot attend are invited to interact with Lisa via a live webchat at www.lisamansfield.blogspot.com.


To learn more about Lisa, her plans for the district, or the campaign, visit www.LisaMansfield.blogspot.com and follow her on Twitter at http://twitter.com/lisa_mansfield.

"Music & More!" featuring WKYC's Monica Robins!

Hope you can join us for an exciting night of food, fun, and great music. This fundraiser will be a great chance to meet Lisa and talk about our schools while helping the campaign to a strong finish.

Checks payable to "Lisa Mansfield for Akron School Board" Rachele Kappler, Treasurer. 2617 Brice Road, Akron, OH 44313.

Visit our Facebook event page for more info and pictures too!

Friends welcome! Hope to see you on the 11th!



And don't forget that early voting has begun. To request a ballot, call the Board of Elections at 330-643-5200. Election day is Nov. 3!

Join us for our "Back to School" after-work mixer

Our first fundraiser is all set. I hope you can join us Sept. 24, 4:30-7:30 p.m., at the Barley House, 222 S. Main Street, in downtown Akron.

We're combining this even with Jason Haas, and we hope parents, educators and voters will take this opportunity to get to know us in a relaxed environment of food and drink. Suggested donation levels: $100 principal, $50 teacher, $25 student, and $10 for young democrats.

Learn more on our Facebook event page: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/event.php?eid=129466252100&ref=mf

Hope to see you on the 24th!

Link to President's address to kids.

For those who wanted their kids to see the President but couldn't.. or want to see it themselves, here is a link... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ZZ6GrzWkw0

President's Address viewed in Akron

Really enjoyed getting out and meeting so many people in East Akron parade today. Thanks to all who said hello.

So many people are talking this weekend about the President's address to school children. Akron has chosen to show this address with kids given the option to opt out. It did give the district a chance to use its "all-call" system to let parents know what will be done in Akron Schools. As a parent, I am glad to have this new system for all of its diverse uses.

I am not sure where all the hype started regarding this address. I do know that modern Presidents have all used television to address school students... starting with President Reagan. Anyone who lived through the 80's will remember the Nancy Reagan "just say NO to drugs." I also know that things are super-charged politically. But why, without reading the speech or knowing what it's about did so many people close their minds to a simple inspirational speech? This is a speech to encourage kids... all kids... to work hard, overcome obstacles, that it is normal to not always want to work hard.. but to do it anyway! Please read it for yourself BEFORE you decide.

http://www.whitehouse.gov/MediaResources/PreparedSchoolRemarks/

Just "Lisa Mansfield" please ..

Did you read this week's article?

http://www.ohio.com/news/53881947.html

I'm interested to see who eventually makes the ballot of these candidates. Certification is on Wednesday Aug. 26. which is also the first day of school. :)

By the way, I should not be on the ballot as Lisa Marie. (Although I would take the Elvis vote. Particularly because my husband does a fun imitation!)

If you look at Saturday's paper I was not "Lisa Marie" in the list that came from the Board of Elections. Not sure why the reporter thought I should be listed with my full name. Made me feel like I was in trouble. That's the only time anyone has used my full name!

It's going to be a fun few months! Election Day is Nov. 3!

Lisa

Lisa Mansfield to file petitions with Akron School Board

Below is a copy of the press release going out this morning. I certainly couldn't have reached this stage without a great deal of help and support. Thanks so much to all who are behind this campaign. You guys are the best!
-- Lisa


LISA MANSFIELD TO FILE PETITIONS FOR AKRON SCHOOL BOARD

APS grad, mother of three promises to fight to preserve needed programs

AKRON-- Lisa Mansfield will file petitions to become a candidate for Akron School Board at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 11th, at the Summit County Board of Elections.

"I'm excited to continue the campaign by meeting with parents, teachers, and community leaders about the future of our district," she said. "Each school is unique to its neighborhood, and I pledge to help build and maintain programs that embrace the families in those neighborhoods so that they feel connected to one another while their children receive a quality education."

A mother to three APS students and a graduate of North High School, Mansfield's campaign already boasts strong outreach through technology, including a Facebook group of more than 400 supporters and volunteers, and the support and endorsements of current APS Board members James Hardy, Amy Reeves Grom, and Jason Haas.

Currently employed as Patron Services Manager at Weathervane Playhouse, Mansfield earned a B.A. in Secondary Education from the University of Akron and worked as a substitute teacher before starting a family. Her community service includes teaching Akron students through "Akron After School" and "Neighborhood Playhouse."

She's also proud of her work helping nursing mothers as a leader in La Leche League and supporting teen parents through CSB's "Mentoring Mothers" Program.

The Akron Beacon Journal named Lisa a "Woman of Excellence" in 2005 for her work with military families during her husband, Eric's, deployment to Iraq.

To learn more about Lisa, her plans for the district, or the campaign, visit http://www.lisamansfield.blogspot.com/ and follow her on Twitter at http://twitter.com/lisa_mansfield. # # #

An active week as a candidate for Akron School Board

It was a very busy week for this candidate, and I'm loving every minute of it.

My family and I arrived back in town from a camping vacation to jump right into Monday's Board of Education meeting. There was much on the agenda, and I particularly wanted to attend to hear the Board honor former member Linda Kersker, who died while we were out of town. I was moved to hear the board members talk about her legacy and doubly motivated by her service. Linda had encouraged me to run for the Board when we spoke in the Spring at the State of the Schools luncheon. She was a special lady.

Monday's meeting was long, even before the executive session, but it was quite interesting as the board handled many legal and construction issues with much accomplished. A special meeting was added for the coming week; I will get to that one as well.

Tuesday's campaign highlights included an exciting opportunity arranged by a family friend, Reverend Byron Arledge, former Akron School Board Member and Executive Director of Pastoral Counseling Service of Summit County, Inc.

I had the pleasure of meeting and having lunch with several dedicated pastors from across the Akron area. They included Rev. Jeff Dennis, Rev. David Nelson, Rev. Luther Cooper, Rev. Malfred Elliot, and Rev. Horace Jake. All of these gentlemen wanted to hear my reasons for running for the Akron School Board and to share some concerns of their congregations. I learned a great deal, and I hope that this is the beginning of an open dialogue with these gentlemen and their churches -- not just in this campaign but for the long term.

That evening, I was invited by Rev. Jake to an Akron-area Baptist Ministers Conference prayer meeting at Mt. Olive Baptist Church. I was so happy to attend, and I met several others who passionately serve this community. Rev. William Button was kind enough to let me address these pastors.

On Wednesday, I went to the Board of Elections to drop off copies of our petitions for pre-check. We took in about 500 signatures. We'll see how many of them end up being "good" as we need 300 to be validated as a candidate. I'm hopeful to have the petitions filed soon and have that portion of the campaign completed. Thanks so much to all who have helped in this part of the process.

Friday was something new for me -- talking to the media as a candidate. I spoke to Matt Patrick on his talk radio show on WHLO (640-AM). I have known Matt since Eric first started at the "old 23" (WAKC-TV) back in the early 90's. We have spoken several times both off and on the radio particularly through our work with the Children's Miracle Network in both Radiothon and the annual telethon to raise money for Akron Children's Hospital. However, this interaction was a bit different since the "cause" I was speaking about was me. Matt was gracious as always, recognizing my past service and letting me tell the basics of my reasons for running. (If you missed the interview, click here.) I think the interview went well and can't wait to get another chance. I am sure if I'm elected there will be times when Matt takes me to task, but I am grateful for the opportunity to talk to him as always.

Up Next: This weekend (July 25-26), we are looking forward to talking with residents and passing out campaign balloons at the Hardesty Park Arts Festival. I'll also be attending a workshop for school board candidates in Columbus.

I'd love to hear more from those who have concerns and ideas for the Akron Schools. Please email me at lisamansfield4aps@gmail.com. Remember, election day is coming November 3rd and there's still time to register to vote.

Thanks again to all who are supporting this effort. You're the best!

Lisa

Hear Lisa's interview with Matt Patrick!

Lisa's interview with Matt Patrick as heard on WHLO on 7/17/09.

Interview with Matt Patrick on WHLO - Friday, July 17

Be sure to tune in to WHLO (640-AM) Friday, July 17th, at 11:05 a.m. as Matt Patrick interviews Lisa about her candidacy for the Akron School board!