Keith Hylton Abrahams III, Ed.D.
Executive Director, Student Integration Services, Los Angeles Unified School District
50-word statement
As president, I will bring integrity, fluency in race relations, and a visionary approach to leading magnet experiences. Grounded in generative learning, I foster pervasive integrated thematic instruction ensuring a comprehensive educational journey. Finally, I will examine needs, communicate effectively with our constituents, and help establish short and long-term goals.
LaRhonda Donaldson
District Director for Curriculum, Miami-Dade County Public Schools
50-word statement
I am LaRhonda Donaldson, and I should be re-elected to the Specialized Director position to provide input from the perspective of an experienced leader with a proven record in the areas of diversity, innovative curriculum, academic excellence, leadership and engaging family and community partnerships related to education.
Michelle Frazier
Adjunct Professor, Concordia University
50-word statement
I recognize the value of magnet schools and their service to our country. As Specialized Director I can support the expansion and strengthening of programs that allow us to create the adults of tomorrow who will speak words of peace, inclusiveness, and understanding.
Walter Hall
Director of Magnet Programs, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools
50-word statement
As an educator, I’ve learned that lack of preparation is unacceptable. Success is the only option, as failing would be detrimental to children’s lives. My education, experience, commitment, and enthusiasm make me a valuable asset as a specialized director for MSA. Our focus must be on relevant programming, innovation, and building long-lasting family relationships for academic success. With my leadership, we can make our programs the top choice for families around the country.
Pamela Henderson-Kirkland
Arts Magnet Director, RJ Reynolds High School
50-word statement
My diverse background in education—spanning classroom teaching, innovative curriculum development, advocacy for equity through arts literacies, and inclusive initiatives—aligns with the specialized director role at MSA. I possess a proven track record in fostering relationships and empowering students through engaging pedagogical practices, making me an ideal fit for this position.
Beth Peterson
District Magnet School Strategist and Coordinator, Jefferson County Public Schools
50-word statement
As a Specialized Director on the Board of Magnet Schools of America, I would bring perspective from a school district that is re-envisioning their magnet system in a time of increasing challenges and priorities. My experiences can help guide future MSA support to districts of varying size, stage, and situation.
Jayme P. Rawson
College Coordinator and Achievement Coach, East Career and Technical Academy
50-word statement
My name is Jayme P. Rawson, and I am running for the position of Specialized Director because I have a passion to serve MSA and help continue to foster a spirit of connection, collaboration and political advocacy and represent school-based teachers and staff to the board at large.
Scott M. Rudes, Ph.D.
Executive Director for Academic Enrichment and Support, Dallas ISD
50-word statement
I have devoted myself as a magnet school administrator to the principles that MSA represents for over 15 years. As an educator and a parent, I have seen the transformative power that magnet schools bring to our students. I desire to contribute my experience to help shape policy for magnet programs throughout the country.
Barbara Turner
Director of Magnet Programs, Richland School District Two
50-word statement
More than 20 years in the field of education, ten-year MSA member with current experience as the Director of Magnet Programs for Richland School District Two and previous experiences as Education Associate for Magnet Programs at the South Carolina Department of Education, MSAP Grant Coordinator, school counselor and classroom teacher.
Jon Wren
Magnet Strategy & Policy, Metro Nashville Public Schools
50-word statement
I believe I would be an excellent addition to the Board at Magnet Schools of America because:
◊ I have previous experience as a non-profit organization’s board member
◊ I’m on the Magnet Schools’ team with Metro Nashville Public Schools,
a proud MSA member district
◊ I wholeheartedly believe in the organization’s mission
Raise the level of performance consistent throughout school districts nationwide and creates a platform from which all magnet schools can flourish. Magnet Schools of America’s national certification process is designed to recognize the hard work of the best magnet schools in the nation and to help them as they grow.
