Written By: JR Robinson

As a proud product of the Memphis-Shelby County School District, Danielle Huggins is running for the District 7 school board seat with a deep understanding of the community's needs and a passion for educational excellence. Born and raised in the Alcy Ball Neighborhood, Huggins attended Alcy Elementary, Corry Middle, and graduated from Hamilton High School in 2004, solidifying her roots in the very district she now hopes to serve.

Huggins' platform is centered on empowering students, supporting teachers, and fostering community engagement – all driven by her firsthand experience as a student and educator within the district. With a Bachelor's degree from LeMoyne-Owen College and ongoing pursuit of a Master's in Teaching from Freed-Hardeman University, Huggins brings a wealth of knowledge and a commitment to academic achievement.

One of the most pressing concerns facing the Memphis-Shelby County School Board is the recent announcement of 1,100 position cuts, which has sparked controversy and raised concerns among staff and parents alike. As a District 7 resident, Huggins understands the impact of such decisions on local communities and emphasizes the importance of transparent communication and community involvement.

"We cannot make sweeping changes without fully engaging with our stakeholders – the teachers, parents, and students who are at the heart of our educational system," Huggins stated. "Open dialogue and collaboration are essential to ensure that any cost-saving measures do not compromise the quality of education or the well-being of our students and educators."

Beyond addressing the budget challenges, Huggins' platform highlights several key priorities:

1. Student Success: Huggins is committed to ensuring that every student in the district has access to quality education and the resources necessary to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. She advocates for personalized learning approaches, robust extracurricular programs, and comprehensive support services to meet the diverse needs of students.
2. Teacher Support: Recognizing the pivotal role of educators, Huggins aims to create an environment that attracts, retains, and empowers high-quality teachers. Her plans include competitive compensation, professional development opportunities, and a collaborative decision-making process that values teacher input.
3. Community Engagement: As a lifelong resident of District 7, Huggins understands the importance of strong partnerships between schools, families, and the broader community for student success. She proposes initiatives to foster open communication, encourage parental involvement, and leverage community resources to enhance educational experiences.
4. Facilities and Infrastructure: With aging school buildings and rising construction costs, Huggins acknowledges the need for strategic investments in facilities and infrastructure. She advocates for a comprehensive plan that prioritizes safety, accessibility, and modern learning environments conducive to academic excellence.

As the Memphis-Shelby County School District navigates these challenges, Danielle Huggins' candidacy offers a fresh voice deeply rooted in the District 7 community. Her platform resonates with a desire for transparency, collaboration, and a student-centered approach to education. By addressing the pressing issues head-on and leveraging her community ties, Huggins aims to pave the way for a brighter future for the district's students and educators.