Why Re-elect Kara Coates

During my time on the Board, I’ve proven my commitment to transparency, accountability, and progress.

I understand the challenges our schools face, and I work hard every day to find solutions that put students first.

With your support, we’ve made meaningful progress—but there’s more work to do, and I’m ready to continue building a strong future for all Gahanna-Jefferson students and families.

This is an Exciting Time for Our District

• A new high school opening in 2026
• A refreshed curriculum expanding workforce development pathways
• Academic performance exceeding state standards—especially in closing achievement gaps

Consistent leadership matters. It creates the stability and momentum needed to build on this progress.

LEADERSHIP YOU CAN TRUST

Student-Focused:
I’ve worked hard to ensure every dollar is spent where it matters most—on our students, staff, and schools.
I testified at the Statehouse to advocate for public education funding and reduce taxpayer burden.
We hired a new Superintendent and Treasurer to lead with vision and integrity, adopted clear and concise policies, created board goals connected to the strategic plan, and enhanced data analysis and academic program and director updates through monthly board workshop meetings.

Community-Driven:
Expanded community engagement has occurred with quarterly Coffees and Conversations, monthly workshops, personal outreach, and active participation in school district events. 

Strong communities start with great schools—and I’m proud to help make Gahanna a community where families thrive.

Trusted Leadership:
Leadership means showing up. I’ve spent time in schools, visited classrooms, and engaged directly with our students and staff. With over 30 years of professional leadership experience, I helped develop and launch our District Strategic Plan. I dedicated time and leadership in transparently managing finances to lengthen levy cycles while completing Phase 2 of our Master Facilities Plan.

Leadership Roles Held on the Board:

• 2022 and 2023: Student Achievement Liaison, GJEF Liaison, Policy Committee
• 2023 and 2024: Strategic Plan Committee
• 2024: Unanimously voted Vice-President; became President; Gahanna Area Arts Council Liaison, GJEA Liaison
• 2025: Unanimously voted President; Member of Ohio School Board Association Central Region Executive Team, Gahanna Area Arts Council Liaison, GJEA Liaison

Consistency That Delivers Results:

• Hired new Superintendent and Treasurer
• Developed and launched the District Strategic Plan
• Testified at the Statehouse for public education funding
• Adopted clear policies supporting students and staff
• Deepened academic review through Workshop Meetings
• Oversaw fiscal and facility management for Phase 2 of the Master Facilities Plan
• Expanded community engagement efforts across the district

We’ve laid a strong foundation—and together, we can continue to build an even brighter future for our students, our schools, and our community.

I would be honored to continue serving Gahanna as your trusted voice on the Board of Education.