Grounded in Experience, Focused on Students
I believe all students deserve equal access to an excellent education. Knowing that the current funding formula is uncertain, our schools are likely facing significant cuts to class offerings. Based on past experience, those cuts often do not come back. I am willing to make the tough decisions to promote and provide an education system that encourages intellectual growth and critical thinking
About Mark Stevens
As a public-school teacher for 35 years, Mark Stevens recently retired (May 2025) from Westerville City Schools as a music educator. Having taught orchestra at Blendon MS, Heritage MS and Westerville South HS the past 25 years, his ensembles have had tremendous success at competitions and have represented the City of Westerville in other states, as well as Europe.
Within the Westerville community, Mark has performed in the trombone section, conducted concerts, and served on the board of the Westerville Symphony.
Before coming to Westerville, Mark taught band and orchestra at Grove City HS. His first teaching position was teaching band at Franklin Local School District in Muskingum and Perry counties. After that, Mark was the Band Director at Northern Local Schools which was the plaintiff in the landmark school funding case “DeRolph vs Ohio”.
Mark earned his Bachelors degree at Bowling Green State University, a Masters of Music from Case Western Reserve/Cleveland Institute of Music, and an Educational Administration degree from the University of Dayton.
Mark and his wife Melissa have been residents of Westerville for the past 24 years and are parishioners at St Paul Catholic Church. They have three adult children and a beagle named Max.
Platform
I offer a grounded and practical perspective of national, state, and local mandates. As a former teacher, I have direct experience with these policies and insight into their impact on educators and students. Our schools need board members who understand the system and are not afraid to make informed decisions.
Financial Stability and Budget Management
Review and address the revenue shortfalls due to the November 2024 levy failure to determine policies and spending priorities.
Plan for the passage or failure of the Nov 4th income tax issue.
Student-Centered Learning
Prioritize student academic success and real-world careers/skills.
In addition to state mandates, ensure access to academic options such as Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate programs.
Provide a positive learning environment that meets the academic needs of each student.
Staff Support and Retention
Support and retain high-quality teachers and staff, especially in light of planned/implemented position reductions.
Professional development that is based on class specific teaching pedagogy and school law for a comprehensive understanding of the education system.
Community engagement
Enhance communication and collaboration with parents, staff, and residents. Encourage parents to volunteer in our schools.
Seeking Parental and Community input on key issues and decisions.
School Facilities
Review all WCS’s construction, renovation, and improvements, finished (and unfinished) to ensure that current facilities are safe, functional and comfortable.
Why Mark Stevens?
I am willing to make the tough decisions to protect curriculum, provide meaningful and supportive professional development for our teachers and support a rigorous education for our students.
More Info And Please Donate.
Campaign Email Address - mstevensforsb2025@gmail.com
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If you prefer to write a check, make it out to: "Friends of Mark Stevens". Please email me for my address.
