A Citizen's Pick of Contenders for Tomorrow's Election!!!

Tomorrow is a big day for our city. If you are like me and love this city to life, then you are probably just as excited about a new wave of passionate servant leaders who have integrity, new ideas, amazing backgrounds, the best interests of the city at heart which are not at conflict with their pockets.

I am very happy to offer my personal pick of leaders for tomorrow and the reasons why. I do not cover all of the races, but I cover those that I deem critical in this election. Please note that this is my personal pickings of leaders and this is not exempt from bias. However, I love my hometown and wish nothing but the best for it, so perhaps you can rest in that fact.

School Board

District 6—Eshe Collins. Collins has blown me away with her expertise and go-getter spirit. This talented woman was on her way to medical school when the calling of solving for the educational inequity weighed her heart and made spectacular use of her talent. As if she has been planning to run since graduating from college she has an ideal balance of practical experience in the classroom, a professional understanding of policy and expertise in matters of the law. She wastes no time in implementing effective programs and is a planner at heart.  She is the director of the early childhood literacy program Jumpstart at Georgia State and is even qualified to be a principal. I really cannot see anyone else winning this seat.

District 7—Courtney English. English is still molding himself to be greater every year and has learned the lessons of the passing board which will inform his future decisions. He has a passion for educating and solving problems for youth. While he is still developing his political identity, I am inspired by his professionalism and dedication. I think he has the right heart…and he is young and like me, remembers what it was like to deal with inequality in the classroom, which was not very long ago.

District 9—Jason Esteves. Jason is a new professional leader who will surely impact Atlanta education. He has a great understanding of inequity and what needs to happen to bring about proper change. His personality and professionalism are his greatest assets. He is a new breed of the lawyer-policy maker.

City Council

Andre Dickens—It is time for new leadership in Atlanta. I am so tired of how politicians fail to identify with the progressive and idealism embodied by young leaders. It like there is a disconnect between the words that come out of their mouths and what goes on in the heart. I had begun to ask myself if anyone in charge really cared. Then came along Andre Dickens, who seemed to me like a real person in a sea of robotic politicos who say they are interested in helping a cause that helps their communities but do absolutely nothing about. Gone are the days, I say! Andre went to my elementary school, so I know he understands the importance of education and closing the achievement gap. Any leader who demonstrates a deep understanding of what our youth needs demonstrates competency in economic development, safety issues, and equity. That is the barometer I use for a municipal leader. If education is not a top priority in any race in Georgia, then I will not hold my tongue to say that there is something wrong with the candidate!

Aaron Watson—We still need tenured leaders who will have the proper time to blossom into the right resource for the community. Aaron Watson is a great choice and has the right heart. He knows what really matters, as evidenced by observed council meeting proceedings. While I hope he wins, I take confidence in the fact that competition breeds efficiency and I know he will adapt!

If the election swings the way I hope it will tomorrow, Atlanta better get excited because it is getting a makeover! Atlanta voters, please do your homework before voting--no Eeney Meeney Miney Moe--this election is just too important.

Take Care!!!