By james art 
As a teacher who has spent my career working with at-risk youth in the Washoe County School District, I care deeply about this community. I have always felt it is my duty to ensure that our most vulnerable students have the resources and opportunities they deserve. This commitment to education extends beyond the classroom, which is why I’m supporting Kathleen Taylor for District 1 Reno City Council.
Why would a teacher be so concerned about a City Council race? Because we need strong advocates for public education in every area of government. Local leaders, as well as city council members, make decisions that affect the safety, infrastructure and well-being of our students and schools. Whether it’s providing safe routes for students commuting to school, supporting programs that benefit children and families, or promoting affordable housing for educators, the City Council’s influence reaches far beyond the classroom. Kathleen Taylor understands these connections and will advocate for policies that support our schools and the community at large.
I am a registered Democrat and often vote Democrat because they align with my values. However, in non-partisan races like this, I don’t vote along party lines – I vote for the person I believe is best for the job. And that person is Kathleen Taylor. She is a product of our local schools and is the first female in her family to graduate from college. Education runs deep in her family—her sister was a teacher—and she understands the challenges we face. Kathleen has proven to be a strong leader who genuinely cares about this community. She knows that public schools are the cornerstone of both our community and our democracy.
Kathleen’s support for public schools is just one of the reasons she won my vote. It is not supported by for-profit school corporations, but by organizations that stand with public educators. Kathleen values the people who invest in our children’s future – our teachers. She understands the need for higher salaries for teachers and the importance of providing the necessary resources for a thriving learning environment. By investing in teachers, she knows we are investing in our future.
Kathleen has also supported initiatives that directly benefit our schools and students. She advocated for WC1, which secured much-needed funding to build and renovate a school. I have seen the difference the funding has made in our classrooms first hand. Kathleen also supported technology to improve community safety, such as communication equipment for school traffic zones. She understands that a safe community is vital for students to grow and learn, and is always looking for ways to make Reno a better place for all of us.
In addition to education, Kathleen is committed to public safety and community development. She supports technology to make our neighborhoods safer, and her scholarship support at ACE High School helps local students pursue higher education. Her commitment to Reno’s future is clear.
As a teacher, I know that leadership matters. And as a woman, I know how important it is to have strong female leaders in our community. Kathleen is a strong advocate for education, safety and community investment. Her leadership will strengthen the educational fabric of our city and ensure that our students, teachers and families have the support they need to succeed.
This election is not about political parties, but about supporting the best candidate. Kathleen Taylor has proven time and time again that she is that person. I am confident that as a member of the Reno City Council, she will continue to be a voice for those who are often unheard and fight for a community where every student has the opportunity to thrive.
That’s why I’m voting for Kathleen Taylor — and I hope you’ll join me.
Stacey Stosich is a teacher in the Washoe County School District.