Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 205, the labor organization representing support employees working in the Metro Nashville Public Schools, announced the candidates the organization will be supporting in the School Board elections to be held on August 7, 2014.

“Nashville’s public schools are best run by people who have the biggest stake in them – families and educators. We hope that voters will take a look at supporting school board members who are qualified, compassionate, and who are tired of ‘business as usual’ at MNPS,” said Doug Collier, President of SEIU Local 205.

In District 6, SEIU is supporting Tyese Hunter who is challenging the current school board chair, Cheryl Mayes. Tyese, a Metro schools parent with a Master’s degree in higher education from TSU, also served six years with the United States Navy Reserves and brings a unique set of skills to the table. “As a Recruit Chief Petty Officer, Tyese led a group of 86 women through boot camp, which says a lot about her leadership abilities and being able to motivate people,” said Collier. “With all the challenges that our schools face today, we need stronger leadership than we’re seeing now and we think Tyese fits the bill.” Tyese is also a forceful advocate for children with disabilities and those who face disadvantages because of income or language barriers. “Tyese wants to raise expectations and outcomes for all students in Metro schools.” District 6 is primarily located in the Antioch area.

Election Day will be on Thursday, August 7. Complete information on early voting dates and locations is available from the Davidson County Election Commission or call 862-8800.

SEIU Local 205 represents support employees working in the Metro Nashville Public Schools and has since 2001. Members come from nearly every department in the district and include school secretaries, cafeteria workers, paraprofessionals, education assistants, campus supervisors, maintenance workers, crossing guards and others who play a role in shaping the lives of children in Davidson County.