Editor’s note: Iowa school board elections are happening on Tuesday, November 2. Bleeding Heartland welcomes guest commentaries advocating for Democratic or progressive candidates running for these nonpartisan offices. Please contact Laura Belin if you are interested in writing.
Tiara L. Mays is running for an at-large seat on the Johnston Community School District Board of Education.
Tiara has lived in the Johnston community for more than six years and is a parent of a student within the district. She is a dedicated central Des Moines area community leader and volunteer who works with youth and collegiate undergraduates both locally and statewide.
Tiara’s key priorities include:
- Taking greater strides in student growth & achievement that will provide equity in curriculum and instruction suitable for students of all abilities.
- Engaging in discussions aimed to correct the disproportionate number of students of color being placed on Individual Education Plans (IEP), without proper screening.
- Connecting with students continually to ensure their voices are heard and they feel empowered, and to encourage them to be key participants in their educational process.
Tiara states, “As a mother of twins, one of whom was diagnosed with autism at the age of 3, I understand the importance of parental advocacy for all children. While our educators and administrators are tasked with educating our children, it is important for parents to remember they oversee their child’s comprehensive, education plan. No one knows your child better than you!
“If I am elected to be a member of the Johnston School Board, I will push for discussions on how to better empower our parents and students to be critical advocates for their education and futures.”
Tiara is a proud product of public education and believes in the value of free, quality education. She is a 2007 Des Moines East High School graduate.
Tiara continued her education at Des Moines Area Community College where she was also a member of the women’s basketball team. She graduated from Iowa State University in 2013 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. She later continued her education and obtained an MBA from Purdue University Global.
She currently works in managed care as a contract negotiator. Tiara serves as a board member for the Red Cross of Central Iowa and Investing in my Future, Inc.
In addition, she is an undergraduate advisor for collegiate women through her sorority, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Tiara is a published author and is a contributor for Autism Parenting Magazine and the author of #TwinChronicals™: Adventures of Prince & Tiana.
Tiara L. Mays, MBA
