Meet LaJoy

"I'm a mom raising a child in the Great Ward 8. I want the best education not just for my child but for every child."

LaJoy is a Ward 8 resident with a beautiful 12-year-old daughter—Abria. LaJoy has been heavily involved in the education and policy landscape in DC for over 12 years. LaJoy is a fierce subject matter expert in education and has been a fighter for special education, schools east of the river, and children with disabilities and their families. LaJoy holds an Associate’s Degree in Elementary Education, a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, and a Master's Degree in Public Administration from the University of Phoenix. Additionally, LaJoy also holds a Master of Philosophy in Public Policy and Administration from Walden University and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration.

Advocacy runs in the family- My DAD was my first advocate!

Love you Daddy! This campaign is dedicated to parents, just like you. May you continue to rest in eternal power! Abraham F. Johnson Sr. (1965-2015)

Family advocacy is deeply personal to me. Growing up, my Dad was my first advocate. He fought tirelessly to ensure I had access to the support and resources I needed to succeed in school. His unwavering dedication has inspired me beyond measure. He would be so proud of the commitment I have made to ensure families across our Ward 8 community are heard and included. Join me in this campaign to make a difference for families, just like ours!

"Powerful Families and Powerful Communities make Powerful Schools"

Just like Abria, all children deserve a high quality school. Too many children in Ward 8 are defined by their zip code. Your zip code should not define your outcome in education. All of our children deserve quality, equity and feel included. Powerful Families and Powerful Communities make Powerful Schools.

"Our school communities need the WHOLE village! This is true Inclusion"

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Why I'm Running for SBOE Ward 8!

I'm running for the State Board of Education because I want to make a difference and improve our Ward 8 families' quality of education. I want to bring fresh ideas and a compelling voice to the school board. I want families and teachers at the decision-making table to ensure a more inclusive education system, especially for our black and brown families.

Our, children in Ward 8 deserve the best high-quality schools equipped with the resources to push our children toward their dreams! If elected to the SBOE, I would champion the board to expand its policy and advocacy efforts on family engagement, safety, special education, mental health, and accountability. It's time for our state board of education to reflect the true diversity of our community, and that includes ensuring that mothers are represented!

LaJoy Johnson-Law- A Mom for Change

Lajoy's

Accomplishments and Experience

  • Boundary Study Advisory Member

  • Ward 8 Education Council Parent Member

  • PAVE Board Member

  • E.L. Haynes PCS Board Member

  • Comcast Internet Essentials Ambassador

  • Affordable Connectivity Program Advocate

  • PhD Public Policy and Administration Candidate

  • Education, Special Education, Disability, and Out of School (OST) Policy Experience

  • Ward 8 Community Economic Development Resident Education Advisor

  • PCSB Accountability Framework Advisory Group Member 

  • Adaptive Recreation DPR Community Partner

  • Ward 8 Democratic 2023 Woman of the Year

  • Over 20 Testimonials between the SBOE and DC Council on Educational Matters

  • Community Inclusive Facebook Live Podcast: Lunch w/ LaJoy

  • Inclusion literacy Podcast: Storytime w/ Abria

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