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”.

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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.

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I bring:

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• 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.

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• 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.

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

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• 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

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

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​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. 

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Please feel free to contact me if you'd like to chat.  I'd love to get the chance to meet you for coffee or at an event.  I welcome the opportunity to meet you, and your family, and hear your ideas, concerns, and hopes for our schools.

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Together, we can Move Forward With Monica.