Candidate Profile: Chevon N. Bowen, Fort Atkinson School Board

Fort Atkinson School Board Candidate Chevon N. Bowen

Age: 43

Current occupation: Professional Development Strategist, Madison College

Years of residence in Fort Atkinson: 12+

Education: University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, Master of Science in Environmental Health and Safety (August 2021); and Bachelor of Science, Occupational and Environmental Safety and Health (May 2006)

Prior political experience: Parents Cooperative Preschool (Fort Atkinson), Board President (June 2020-June 2022) and Vice President (June 2019-June 2020); Occupational and Environmental Safety and Health (OESH) Department, UW-Whitewater, Advisory Board Member (September 2022-Present); and Jefferson County Area Safety Network (Jefferson), Board Chair (June 2022-June 2024) and Board Member (July 2021-June 2022)

Reasons for seeking School Board position: As a long-time resident of Fort Atkinson and a parent with children in the district, I have a deep personal investment in the success of our schools. My decision to run is rooted in my belief that every student deserves an inclusive, high-quality education that prepares them for a successful future. I want to ensure that all families feel heard and valued and that our district fosters an environment where every child can thrive. I also believe that strong leadership and community engagement are essential in decision making. If elected, I will work to promote transparency, collaboration, and data-driven policies that benefit students, educators, and families across the district.

Most pressing issues facing the office/position of School Board Member: The first issue which I address concerns Transparency and Communication. Many community members have expressed a desire for clearer communication and decision-making processes from the school board. Strengthening transparency will help build trust and foster better collaboration between families, educators, and district leadership. My second issue of concern centers on Student Success and Support Systems. This entails ensuring that all students have access to the academic resources, mental health support, and career pathways they need to succeed in an evolving world. The third issue in my view is Representation and Inclusive Learning Environments. Creating a school environment where every student feels valued, seen, and supported, recognizing that diverse backgrounds and experiences enrich the learning experience for all.

School district conditions or projects I would like to improve, initiate, or complete: I appreciate the work being done to enhance student learning and professional development for educators, and I want to support and expand initiatives that strengthen both. Key areas of focus include first, strengthening community-school partnerships to increase family engagement and collaboration; second, ensuring that district policies align with student needs and that all students receive the resources necessary to thrive; and third, improving transparency and accessibility in board decisions to keep the public well informed.

Unique perspectives brought to the office of School Board Member: My background in education, leadership, and advocacy provides a strong foundation for serving on the school board. I bring a perspective of having lived and experienced growing up in a predominantly White community and understanding the challenges families of color may face in ensuring their voices are heard. I bring a perspective in governance and leadership based on my experience from time serving on advisory boards and leading initiatives at Madison College. I also focus on student success, transparency, and data-driven decision-making to ensure that all perspectives are considered in policy and governance. While this is my first time running for elected office, I have extensive experience in leadership, governance, and advocacy through my professional and community work. My roles have involved collaborating with educators, administrators, and stakeholders to develop policies and programs that support student success, transparency, and strong educational outcomes. I have led cross-functional teams, advised on educational initiatives, and worked on governance-focused projects that require balancing multiple perspectives and making data-informed decisions.

Additional comments or insights for the public to know: I am running for the Fort Atkinson School Board because I believe that strong leadership, open communication, and collaboration between schools and the community lead to the best outcomes for students. My focus is on ensuring that every child—regardless of background—has access to an excellent education and the resources they need to succeed. I bring a unique blend of lived experience, professional leadership, and governance knowledge that will help support informed decision-making and transparent engagement with the community. I am committed to working alongside district leadership, educators, and families to ensure that our schools remain a place where all students can thrive.

Thank you for the opportunity to share my vision and qualifications for this role. I look forward to serving the Fort Atkinson community! Thank you.