BY JASMINE STEPHENS
Candidate
LAPS Board District 2

There’s an old saying that says, “Children are the future.” While this may sound cliché, it holds a profound truth. The quality of education our children receive today directly impacts the world they will lead tomorrow. For me, running for school board is about more than just overseeing various budgets and policies—it’s about ensuring that every student, regardless of their background or circumstance, has the opportunity to succeed in a safe and supportive environment.

I’ve seen the effects that a lack of resources, neglect, or poor decision-making can have on children’s lives. Whether it’s insufficient mental health resources, or systems that don’t adequately support students with diverse needs, these issues all directly affect our children’s futures. I want to make sure that all students—whether they excel academically or need extra support—are given the tools and opportunities to succeed.

I am someone who believes in the holistic development of children. My vision for the school board centers on the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of our students. It’s not just about teaching children subjects—it’s about teaching them how to be strong, resilient, and compassionate individuals.

Our children today face more stress and challenges than ever before. From the pressures of social media to the uncertainty of the world around them, these factors significantly impact their emotional health. I believe it is essential to prioritize mental health support in schools, providing students with the resources they need to manage stress, build resilience, and thrive emotionally.

Furthermore, physical well-being is also crucial. I am committed to promoting healthier school environments that encourage healthy habits. This includes ensuring that schools offer nutritious meals and physical education programs that help children develop lifelong habits of good health.

Equity in education is a cornerstone of my campaign. Every child deserves the chance to succeed, and this means addressing the disparities in our school system that disproportionately affect certain groups of students. We must ensure that all students have access to the resources, support, and opportunities they need to excel.

I will work to advocate for better use of funding, provide professional development for teachers to address the diverse needs of their students, and work with community organizations to ensure that students who face external challenges are supported both in and out of the classroom.

As a member of the school board, I see my role as one of service and collaboration. I want to work alongside teachers, parents, students, and community members to create a learning environment that supports everyone. Listening to the concerns and ideas of the people who are
directly involved in the education system is vital in making informed decisions that truly benefit our children.

I will advocate for greater transparency and communication between the school board and the community. We can achieve this by fostering an environment where parents and educators feel heard and valued. We can create stronger, more effective educational policies that directly reflect the needs of our students.

Education is constantly evolving, and the needs of our students are changing along with it. We must ensure that our schools are preparing children not just for the academic challenges of today but for the social, emotional, and technological challenges of tomorrow. My goal is to help our schools adapt, evolve, and lead in ways that prepare our children to become informed, responsible, and caring individuals who contribute positively to society.

I care deeply about the future of our children, and I know that through a collective effort, we can build a district that not only provides an education but nurtures the entire well-being of each child. I am committed to making sure our schools are safe, supportive, and set up for success, and I am asking for your trust and for your vote to help make that vision a reality.

Please email: vote.jasmine.s@gmail.com if you have any questions or if you just want to chat!  “