Dayton Daily News: Wright State political scientist provides context for surge in competitive school board races

Lee Hannah is a professor of political science at Wright State.

Lee Hannah, Ph.D., professor of political science at Wright State University, talked to the Dayton Daily News about an increase in competitive races for area boards of education in the Nov. 4 election.

Hannah theorizes that the surge of interest in school board races is an outgrowth of the pandemic and the focus it has put on schools. Schools have become the focus for major political parties, he said, and even played a role in the 2021 Virginia governor’s race.

“Many people became much more aware of school policies, leaders, and curriculum when they were directly affected — either through witnessing teachers and curriculum through school from home or through forming opinions on the school’s policies about masking, social distancing, opening closing, sports, etc.,” Hannah told the Dayton Daily News.

Hannah said board of education elections matter because board members make critical decisions that impact the quality of education in a district.

“Their decisions can impact their ability to hire good teachers, provide appropriate services, etc.,” Hannah said. “Even longer-term, the quality and reputation of school districts impact property values and other community standards.”

Read the article at daytondailynews.com.