What is your name?

Leroy Ranel Jr.

Tell us more about yourself.

I am originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and have lived in Gwinnett County for 20+ years. I am a cybersecurity manager for a utility company. I've always served my community in a variety of ways. Serving at the school board level is just an extension of what I've always done. I believe in the public school system and want to support and champion our teachers, build relationships with our parents and create dialogue to address the many challenges facing our district today.

What office are you running for?

Gwinnett County School Board

What is your party affiliation?

Non-Partisan

Attach a photo of yourself

Attach your resume or CV.

Where did you go to school?

- Central High School, 1989 to 1993 - Gwinnett Technical College, 2007 - American Military University, 2010

Provide the link to your campaign website.

ranelfordistrict1.org

What is your job/occupation?

IT Security Manager

What city/neighborhood do you live in?

Dacula

Is this your first time running for office?

Yes

What experiences have best prepared you to hold elected office?

I've lead a volunteer organization of over 100 volunteers for 20+ years. I've led various individuals and teams both domestic and internationally. I've managed million dollar budgets. I've brought opposing ideologies together to achieve the impossible. I've organized community engagements to address public concerns. Most of all, I've learned elected office is more about relationships then anything, and I have the relationships.

What is the most critical issue currently facing your district and how would you address it?

Teacher retention and trust is what I hear about the most. Teachers are not respected by parents and there is a fear of retaliation if a teacher wants to speak out. I will address the trust issue by reaching out to teachers. The retention issue is complex but ultimately we must create an environment that teachers want to teach in.

What are your thoughts on the role of public schools in educating students about potentially controversial topics?

Certain topics should not be discussed or "taught" in school.

What’s something the district isn’t doing now that you think it should do?

Review the points allotment formula, it impacts staffing at the schools.

What would you suggest so your school board can work better together?

Open dialogue void of politics.

What do you think about a parental requirement to “opt in” if they want their child to receive sex education?

I think parents should be allowed to opt in. I do not think it should be up to the parent to opt out.