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Frank Johnson, the South Memphis activist who represents District 7 on the Memphis-Shelby County Faculties board, ended his election marketing campaign to remain on the board, halfway by way of the early-voting interval.
Johnson, who introduced his determination on social media, mentioned {that a} stroke he skilled final September and the current demise of his sister led him to concentrate on his bodily and psychological well being.
“Whereas my dedication to serve on behalf of the residents of this nice metropolis is unchanged, after a lot consideration, I’ve determined to discontinue my bid for the District 7 College Board seat…” Johnson wrote on Fb.
“Going by way of such a tough well being journey has taught me to take heed to my physique,” he wrote. “Dropping my sister has taught me to take heed to my coronary heart. Along with your assist I’m taking these steps to heal each in order that I could return to serve the folks of Memphis with all of the vigor, energy and fervour you deserve.”
Johnson endorsed considered one of his opponents, Danielle Huggins, a fourth-grade MSCS English language arts trainer, for the seat.
“This determination was not straightforward, however it’s the proper one for our neighborhood. I wholeheartedly stand behind Ms. Huggins and belief her to work alongside the remainder of the Board and our new Superintendent in the perfect curiosity of all MSCS college students, academics, and households,” Johnson mentioned in a press release.
Johnson was appointed to the District 7 seat in 2022, to interchange longtime board member Miska Clay Bibbs after she was elected to the Shelby County Fee.
Three different candidates are operating for the District 7 seat, which covers elements of South Memphis: Towanna Murphy, founding father of a summer time studying camp; Jason Sharif, founder and govt director of RESPECT The Haven Neighborhood Growth Corp., which serves the Whitehaven Neighborhood; and Chavez Donalson, a neighborhood activist.
Together with the District 7 seat, 4 others — representing districts 2, 3, 4, and 5 — are up for election this 12 months. To study extra in regards to the candidates, learn Chalkbeat Tennessee’s MSCS faculty board voter information.
Early voting started July 12 and can proceed by way of July 27. Election Day is Aug. 1.
Bureau Chief Tonyaa Weathersbee oversees Chalkbeat Tennessee’s training protection. Attain her at twe[email protected].
