Candidate for
Board Member; Princeton City School District

An experienced board member, active parent and school volunteer, I bring a breath of expertise, independence and enthusiasm to the Board that you will find unique among the candidates.

My deep roots in the community and strong commitment to Princeton City Schools is evidenced by eight years of experience as an elected School Board Member. During my tenure, I served as President, Vice President and Legislative Liaison of the Princeton Board. I have been recognized for my work in education on a local, state and national level. I was elected President-elect of the Ohio School Boards Association, serving on the Board of Trustees, Executive Committee, Legal Assistance Fund and Chair of the State Legislative Committee. I led the Ohio Delegation on Capitol Hill, where we lobbied for public educational issues and school funding in Washington DC.

My commitment dates back to my days as an active student at Princeton, where I was involved in Student Council, Vikettes, National Honor Society, and the Symphonic and Marching Bands. Today I am the proud parent of a Princeton graduate, with my youngest daughter enrolled in 6th grade student at Princeton Community Middle School.

I hold a Bachelor's Degree in Public Affairs from Indiana University, graduating with a triple major in Public Finance, Public Personnel Labor Relations, and Policy and Administration. My financial background and public sector education best positions me to review and understand the Princeton Budget, resolve personnel issues and establish sound policies for district operations.

As a board member, I will continue to monitor district budgeting and spending, working with legislators to understand and develop a school funding system to address the affects of HB 66.

I will establish a forum to improve communications with the community, building a bridge between the board and Princeton Families.

My goal is to strive for Excellence in our academic programs, by continuing to improve and expand the curriculum. We should continue to enhance our sports programs and sports facilities for all students. In addition, we must continue to build on our award winning music programs, fine arts and extra curricular activities.

The Princeton District recognized my involvement in education by awarding me with the Princeton Dream Keeper Award. In November 2002, the Princeton Board of Education recognized me by presenting a Resolution highlighting my "...desire to help children through meaningful participation in school governance initiatives and support of public education in the State of Ohio." I have also been recognized for Outstanding Dedication and School Boardsmanship and received the Ohio School Boards Association Award of Achievement.

My dedication and commitment to our schools and our children goes beyond the boardroom to the classroom where I am an active parent volunteer. I am supported by Princeton families, business owners and Community leaders district wide.

On November 8th, vote for Tawana Lynn Keels for the Princeton Board of Education. Striving for Excellence in Education.