Hello, I'm Monica Bruaw, and I'm running for Lakewood school board.

I’m proud to announce my 2025 candidacy for the Lakewood Board of Education. I’m stepping into this race with a deep commitment to our schools, our families, and most importantly, our students. It’s time to “Move Forward with Monica”.

As a life-long Lakewood resident, LHS graduate, mother of three elementary-aged Lakewood students, and a professional background in education planning, I bring a boots-on-the-ground perspective of what Lakewood stands for and the professional experience to know how to navigate the changing landscape of education.

I’m not running to build a political resume to seek a higher role. I’m running because I genuinely care about the future of our public schools and the well-being of every student who walks through the doors (which includes my own children).

The importance of local leadership has become increasingly apparent to me through my efforts as a founding member of Preserve Lakewood Schools and I am committed to protecting and leveraging our walkable, neighborhood-based model of education.

I bring:

20 years' experience as an education planner in the construction industry, working directly with school districts and school district leadership across Ohio to develop master plans, facilitate task forces and lead community engagement sessions.

Experience navigating state requirements around building capacity regulations and relationships with school administrations around the state, giving me insight into the budgetary challenges Lakewood faces.

Experience navigating complex challenges, balancing budgets with real needs, and always keeping the focus on where it belongs: on relevant data and on students.

Understanding of what it's like to sit at a table of intervention specialists, therapists, and teachers to advocate for my children's needs for the services they need to be successful

Experience leading tough conversations, bring diverse voices together to solve difficult problems.

I believe in listening closely, collaborating openly, acting transparently, and building trust. My goal is to support the district to build strong, inclusive schools where every child can thrive – both now and in the future.

We kick off this campaign with a casual “Meet Monica” on Tuesday June 3rd the Kiwanis Pavilion at Lakewood Park. I want to meet you, and your family, and hear your ideas, concerns, and hopes for our schools.

Together, we can Move Forward With Monica.

Behind the Scenes

Here's how my co-workers describe me:

"Reliable, trustworthy, forward thinking, intelligent, problem solver, loyal, can synthesize information well and develop solutions. An advocate for all students, particularly those who are sometimes marginalized. And a great sense of humor!"

- From Tim Tarvin, co-worker and former Shelby City Schools Superintendent

“Monica is a forward-thinking leader with decades of experience in K–12 education planning. She knows how to turn challenges into smart, student-focused solutions, while bringing positive energy and a can-do attitude to everything she does. Her ability to actively listen, collaborate, and deliver solutions that meet schools' needs is impressive. She brings a rare blend of strategic vision and practical insight—exactly what schools and communities need.”
—Doug Rentz, CPSM from Garmann Miller

"I met Monica through our involvement as founding members of Preserve Lakewood Schools. She is a caring parent, dedicated community member, and focused on relationships. She has emerged in our group as a positive leader who balances listening with action (one who walks the walk). A true advocate for our schools and our kids!"

—Caity Solomon, Lakewood resident

Here's how my kids describe me:

"kind, helpful and loves vacationing in Myrtle Beach"

Here's how my husband introduces me:

"This is my wife, Monica, she is in charge of the world."

Here's how my friends describe me:

"My friend Monica is a quiet soul who will fight until the end for those she loves. She is a fierce leader and leads with grace and dignity. In our 20 year friendship, we have been through a ton of ups and downs and I never for a moment questioned her commitment and friendship to me. She’s transparent and intelligent, not to mention super fun to be around."

- Christy

"My friend Monica is one of the most dedicated and successful persons I know. Whatever she puts her mind to, she wins! Nothing stops her from achieving her goals. She's genuine from top to bottom, a great human and an utter blast to be around! "

- Bethany

And how would you describe me? Let's meet for coffee and get to know one another. I want to hear your vision for the future of Lakewood City Schools.