Thank you.

Dear Friends and Supporters,

Enough votes have been counted to know that I will not advance to the general election for the FCPS Maryland Board of Education this November.

This outcome is not a reflection of the extraordinary effort, commitment, and generosity shown by so many people throughout this campaign. Thank you to everyone who knocked on doors, donated to fund mailers, palm cards, and yard signs, volunteered at events, stayed late to discuss policy, sent encouraging texts, calls, and emails, and helped drive friends and neighbors to the polls. Every conversation, every contribution, and every vote mattered.

My work does not end with last night’s results.

Frederick County Public Schools continue to face threats from well-funded outside interests seeking to undermine public education. Special interest groups that stand to profit from privatizing education are investing heavily in so-called "Orange Ballot" candidates for our local school board. Under the banner of “school choice,” these efforts would divert resources away from public schools and toward private institutions that can choose whom they serve and whom they exclude. Public schools are for every child.

That is why I will continue working through November to support Casey Day, Rae Gallagher, Dean Rose, and Chad King Wilson. It is critical that our Board of Education remains committed to protecting strong, inclusive public schools that serve all students.

For our children. For our teachers. For our community’s future.

Thank you for your support, your trust, and for joining me on this beautiful mission. I look forward to continuing this work alongside you.

Jess