Your Questions, My Answers
“My lived experience as a teacher, parent, and advocate keeps me grounded in one simple truth: every decision must be what’s best for our kids.”
Melissa Easley
About Melissa Easley
What makes you the right person to serve on the CMS Board?
I’m a former teacher of 19 years, a CMS parent, and a small business owner. I’ve taught in multiple states, earned National Board Certification, and led advocacy efforts from the classroom to the Capitol. I know what it’s like to teach in an underfunded school, to raise kids in this system, and to fight for what our communities need.
Why did you first decide to run?
I ran because I wanted educators and families to have a real voice at the decision-making table. I’m running again because we’ve made progress, but the work isn’t done. I believe in public schools, and I’ll keep fighting for students, teachers, and families every single day.
Why are you running for re-election?
I’m running for re-election because I believe in public education—and I’m not done fighting for it. Over the past three years, I’ve shown up in the classroom, in the community, and at the board table to stand up for students, teachers, and families.
As the only candidate in District 1 with real classroom experience, I bring that perspective to every decision I make. I’ve worked to improve transparency, equity, and student outcomes—because that’s what our schools deserve. And while we’ve made progress, there’s still more to do.
I wasn’t recruited to run—I stepped up because I refuse to let our schools be dismantled. If re-elected, I’ll continue pushing for fair funding, safe and inclusive schools, and a CMS that works for everyone. Let’s keep doing the work—together.
“When we invest in teachers, protect our students, and spend wisely, every child wins.”
Melissa Easley
Priorities & Visions
What’s your vision for CMS?
A district where every child is valued and supported, where educators are respected and retained, and where decisions are made transparently—with the community, not behind closed doors.
What are your top priorities?
Community Engagement & Transparency → Keeping families and students at the center through Minutes with Melissa, Chalk Talk, and clear, open decision-making—because schools belong to the community.
Teacher Recruitment & Retention → Fair pay, respect, and support for teachers and staff so CMS becomes a place where great educators want to stay and thrive.
Student Safety & Well-Being → Expanding nurses, counselors, and social workers while strengthening anti-bullying policies and mental health supports—because safety is the foundation of learning.
Student Achievement → Focusing on early literacy, STEM readiness, tutoring, and career pathways so every student graduates prepared to be Enrolled, Enlisted, or Employed.
What challenges are you most focused on?
We’re facing underfunding, staffing shortages, and systemic inequities. I’ve fought for more resources, better support staff, and equity-driven budgeting—and I’ll keep pushing for sustainable solutions.
What does educational equity mean to you?
Equity means giving every student what they need to thrive—not treating every school the same. I fight for targeted supports, inclusive curriculum, and fair resource distribution.
“Disagreement isn’t division—it’s how we move forward, as long as we never lose sight of our students.“
Melissa Easley
Board Leadership & Governance
What exactly does a school board member do?
The board sets the what—the vision, values, policies, and budgets that guide CMS. The superintendent and her team set the how—the day-to-day operations. My role is to represent the community’s vision and values, ask tough questions, and make sure every decision is in the best interest of our students, teachers, and families.
How do you handle disagreements on the board?
There are nine people on the board, and every one of us brings a different perspective on how to reach our shared goal: supporting staff, educators, and students. That means disagreements are inevitable—but they come from a place of passion and commitment.
It takes five votes to make change, so building consensus matters. I’ve worked across the political spectrum, built relationships, and stayed focused on what’s best for students—even when it’s difficult or unpopular.
What I admire about this board is that, despite our differences, we share the same bottom line: putting students and staff first. Debate makes us stronger because it forces us to ask tough questions, challenge assumptions, and arrive at better solutions. My role is to keep the conversation grounded in our values, push for transparency, and make sure every decision serves our kids and community.
“Budgets aren’t just numbers; they’re a reflection of our values and priorities for kids and classrooms.”
Melissa Easley
Budget & Resources
How will you deal with state and federal funding cuts?
I’ve fought for transparency and short-term solutions, but we also need strong advocacy at the state and federal level. I’ll continue working to protect classrooms from cuts and to make sure our most vulnerable students aren’t left behind.
How do you approach the budget?
I look at every contract and every line item with one question in mind: Does this serve our students, teachers, and community? If the answer is no, I push back. Fiscal responsibility means ensuring every dollar is spent wisely and equitably.
What will you do to keep teachers in CMS?
Retention starts with respect. That means fair pay, strong support systems, and school cultures that value teacher voice. I’ve pushed for protected planning time, expanded access to nurses, and policies that make CMS a place educators want to stay.
“Engagement isn’t an event—it’s a commitment to listen first and lead with what we hear.”
Melissa Easley
Community Engagement
How do you stay connected with families and staff?
I’m the only board member who has published a regular newsletter (Chalk Talk) since 2022, kept a school visit schedule, and held consistent public engagement through Minutes with Melissa. I listen first—and lead with what I hear.
How do you make sure CMS is transparent with the public?
I publish updates, break down board decisions in plain language, and push for open communication at every level. My commitment is simple: no closed doors when it comes to our schools.
