Why Running for School Board Matters More Than Ever – And Why I'm Not Playing the Games
Updated: Mar 16
The tragedy at Apalachee High School on September 4, 2024, changed everything for our community. Four beautiful lives lost—two students and two teachers—and so many others forever scarred. In the aftermath, people stepped up. Families, parents, teachers, and concerned citizens worked hard to push for real safety, better threat assessments, more school resource officers, and accountability. Some board members who were serving during that dark day are no longer serving, and some are still serving. But here's the hard truth: Even with new faces, a new "good ol' boys" club is quietly forming. People are teaming up behind the scenes to push their own plans, agendas, and personal outcomes. It's the same old power games, just with different players. I've seen it before, and I won't be part of it.
That's exactly why I'm running for District 4 on the Barrow County School Board. I'm not in anyone's club, not taking directions from special interests, and not chasing policies or reforms that serve anyone but our students, teachers, and families right here in Barrow. Our pastor always says, "Whoever wants the next generation the most will get them." Trust me, I believe that. And it weighs on me daily. Even more so after the tragedy on September 4.
If elected, please know that I will be on guard every single day for our students. No evil influences, no progressive overreaches, no hidden pushes that don't put student and teacher safety, faith-based values, and real education first. I'll always advocate to keep our schools secure, like I already did even before the tragedy. I will advocate for our teachers, ensure transparency in every decision, and make sure nothing harmful slips through on my watch.
Our children are too precious to hand over to cliques or ideologies. I've raised my family here, coached our kids, fought to save programs like BASA track, and prayed long and hard about this calling. If you're tired of the backroom plans and ready for an independent voice who answers only to the citizens of Barrow, especially here in District 4, I'm asking for your support!
The primary is May 19, 2026. Early voting starts April 27 through May 15 at the Elections Office in Winder. Check mvp.sos.ga.gov for your spot.
Please join me in protecting and guiding the next generation the right way—together, with no games.
Ash Walsh
Candidate for Barrow County Board of Education, District 4
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