Janeece Keyes

Janeece Keyes is running for election for an at-large seat of the Columbus City Schools Board of Education in Ohio. She is on the ballot in the general election on November 4, 2025. She advanced from the primary on May 6, 2025.

Keyes completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. Click here to read the survey answers.

Biography

Janeece Keyes was born in Columbus, Ohio. She earned a bachelor's degree and a graduate degree from The Ohio State University. Her career experience includes working as a director and city development commissioner. She has been affiliated with Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated.^[1]

Elections

2025

General election

General election for Columbus City Schools school board (3 seats)

The following candidates are running in the general election for Columbus City Schools school board on November 4, 2025.

		Candidate
	Submit photo	Patrick Katzenmeyer (Nonpartisan)
		Jermaine Kennedy (Nonpartisan)
		Janeece Keyes (Nonpartisan)
		Mounir Lynch (Nonpartisan)
		Kimberley Mason (Nonpartisan)
		Antoinette Miranda (Nonpartisan)

	There are no incumbents in this race.
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Nonpartisan primary election

Nonpartisan primary for Columbus City Schools school board (3 seats)

The following candidates ran in the primary for Columbus City Schools school board on May 6, 2025.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Antoinette Miranda (Nonpartisan)	21.9	16,955
✔	Submit photo	Patrick Katzenmeyer (Nonpartisan)	19.1	14,760
✔		Jermaine Kennedy (Nonpartisan)	18.4	14,239
✔		Mounir Lynch (Nonpartisan)	7.6	5,881
✔		Janeece Keyes (Nonpartisan)	7.2	5,556
✔		Kimberley Mason (Nonpartisan)	7.1	5,510
		Liz Caslin‐Turner (Nonpartisan)	6.2	4,812
		Karrie Lumpkin (Nonpartisan)	4.9	3,766
	Submit photo	Teresa Hannah (Nonpartisan)	4.2	3,228
		Julie Trabold (Nonpartisan)	3.4	2,646

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source 1 Source 2	Total votes: 77,353
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Ivory Kennedy Jr. (Nonpartisan)
Yasmine Farah (Nonpartisan)
Tracey Sigers (Nonpartisan)

Endorsements

Keyes received the following endorsements. To send us additional endorsements, click here.

Columbus Educators' Association
Matriots Ohio
Matriots PAC
The Columbus Dispatch

Campaign themes

2025

Ballotpedia survey responses

Janeece Keyes completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Keyes' responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

My name is Janeece Keyes, and I am the proud mother of four successful Columbus City School graduates. As a single mother, I worked multiple jobs to provide for my family, and I know the challenges that many parents face while striving to see their children succeed. Each of my children has gone on to thrive, one became a valedictorian with a full scholarship to The Ohio State University, another is a nurse, another a skilled mechanic raising two children in our schools, and another a hardworking, self-sufficient adult. Their success shows what is possible when students have the right support, and it is the same kind of opportunity I want for every child in Columbus.

Professionally, I bring leadership experience as a leader who has built teams, used data to solve problems, and worked to ensure fairness and accountability. I hold a Master’s degree in Public Administration and Leadership and pursuing my doctorate in Leadership in Organizations. I know how to listen, how to collaborate, and how to take action.

I am running because too many students are falling behind, struggling with high absenteeism, while teachers feel unsupported and families are left without a voice in the system. We need leaders who will listen to parents, support teachers, and put students at the center of every decision. I want to bring transparency, fresh ideas, and the courage to do something different, because our children’s future depends on it.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Every decision made by the Columbus City School Board must start and end with what is best for our students. For too long, politics, dysfunction, and competing agendas have distracted from the core mission of our schools, educating and preparing our children for success. As a mother of four Columbus City School graduates and grandmother to two students enrolled, I understand firsthand what families need from. I will ensure students remain the focus by actively listening to parents, supporting teachers with the tools and training they need, and creating real avenues for families to have their voices heard. Too often, decisions are made without considering the impact on the children who walk into our classrooms every day. This must change.
Our district is facing serious budget challenges, and we cannot continue with “business as usual.” Every tax dollar and every budget line must be examined with care and responsibility, because the way we allocate resources directly affects programs, teachers, and student learning. Families and community members deserve to know how money is being spent and to see that funds are used to strengthen instruction, improve attendance, and close achievement gaps. As a leader with experience in oversight, data-driven decision making, and accountability, I will bring that same level of discipline to our schools. We must prioritize what works for students, cut waste, and invest wisely in programs that deliver real results.
Academics alone are not enough. For students to truly succeed, they must also be equipped with the tools to manage emotions, build resilience, and develop strong relationships. Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) gives students these life skills, skills that prepare them not only to graduate, but to thrive as healthy, confident, and capable adults. In a time when many of our children are struggling with stress, trauma, or disengagement, SEL is more important than ever. I will advocate for policies and programs that integrate SEL into everyday learning while also giving teachers the training, support, and resources needed to make their learning environments meaningful and successful.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

My experience supporting and training professionals has shown me firsthand the importance of guidance, resources, and skill development in achieving success. I am committed to public policies that expand access to Career Technical Education, giving students practical skills, industry knowledge, and real-world experience. By equipping students with these tools and opportunities, we can help them achieve economic self-sufficiency, long-term career success, and the ability to reach their full potential, while preparing students to meet the demands of today’s economy.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

An effective elected official must embody transparency, consistently communicating openly and honestly with the public, ensuring that constituents understand decisions and feel their voices are heard. They should be willing to collaborate, working across diverse perspectives, building consensus, and fostering partnerships that lead to meaningful, sustainable solutions. Above all, they must be a strong and principled leader, making thoughtful, informed decisions that prioritize the best interests of the community. A good leader inspires trust, holds themselves accountable, and guides others toward shared goals with integrity, vision, and a commitment to positive change.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

For someone elected to the Columbus City School Board, the core responsibilities are rooted in a commitment to students, families, educators, and the broader community. First and foremost, an elected official must prioritize students, ensuring that every decision and policy supports their academic achievement, social-emotional development, and overall well-being. This includes advocating for programs that engage students, reduce absenteeism, and provide pathways to success, such as Career Technical Education, advanced academics, and enrichment opportunities that prepare them for college, careers, and life.

Supporting educators is another critical responsibility. Teachers and school staff are on the front lines of education, and they need strong leadership, resources, training, and recognition to perform their roles effectively. An elected official must work to create conditions that empower educators to teach at their highest potential, addressing challenges like professional development, classroom resources, and morale.

Responsible governance is also essential. This includes managing budgets, resources, and policies in a transparent and accountable manner, ensuring that taxpayer dollars are used effectively to benefit students and schools. Officials must make informed decisions, grounded in data and community needs, while balancing short-term demands with long-term strategic goals.

Engaging families and the community is a core responsibility as well. Parents, caregivers, and community members bring critical insights and perspectives that must be included in the decision-making process. An effective board member listens actively, communicates openly, and fosters partnerships that strengthen schools and neighborhoods.

Finally, an elected official sets a strategic vision for the district. This requires leadership that is ethical, collaborative, and forward-thinking to guide policies that best support our students.

What legacy would you like to leave?

The legacy I want to leave is one of opportunity, equity, and empowerment. I want to be remembered as a school board member who put students first, who listened to families, supported educators, and made decisions that helped every child reach their full potential. I hope my work strengthens Columbus City Schools by creating programs that prepare students for college, careers, and life, fostering safe and inclusive learning environments, and building trust between the district and the community. Ultimately, I want to leave a district where every student feels seen, supported, and inspired to succeed, and where families and educators know their voices matter and their contributions are valued.

What is your favorite book? Why?

My favorite book is I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou. I admire it because it tells a powerful story of resilience, courage, and the triumph of the human spirit in the face of adversity. The book highlights the importance of education, self-expression, and perseverance, values I hold deeply and strive to reflect in my work supporting students, families, and educators. It’s a reminder that, with determination and support, every person has the potential to rise above challenges and achieve their dreams.

What is the primary job of a school board member in your view?

In my view, the primary job of a school board member is to ensure that the district is effectively governed, fiscally responsible, and focused on the success and well-being of its students. At the core of this role the hire, evaluation, and termination of the superintendent and treasurer. These decisions are critical because the superintendent sets the educational and operational direction for the district, while the treasurer manages the district’s financial resources. A school board member must carefully select leaders who are competent, visionary, and committed to equity, accountability, and excellence in education, and hold them responsible for achieving district goals.

Another essential responsibility is budgetary oversight and financial monitoring. School boards control significant public resources, and it is their duty to ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent wisely, equitably, and transparently. This includes reviewing financial reports, understanding funding priorities, approving budgets, and making difficult decisions about resource allocation to ensure that all schools and students have what they need to succeed.

Policy setting and governance are equally central. Board members establish the rules and policies that guide how schools operate, from academic programs and student services to staff conduct and safety procedures. These policies must reflect the values of the community, prioritize student learning, and provide clear direction for administrators and educators. A school board member ensures that governance structures are effective, ethical, and transparent, and that the district complies with state and federal regulations while pursuing long-term strategic goals.

A school board member serves as a bridge between the schools and the community. They must actively engage with parents, families, educators, and residents, listening to their concerns, communicating decisions, and building trust. By fulfilling these duties our students succeed.

Who are your constituents?

As a member of the Columbus City School Board, my constituents are the diverse individuals and groups who rely on our district to provide a high-quality education and a safe, supportive learning environment. First and foremost, students are at the center of everything we do. Every decision I make must prioritize their academic achievement, social-emotional well-being, and long-term success. I am committed to ensuring that every child has access to the resources, opportunities, and programs they need to thrive, from strong core academics to Career Technical Education and enrichment programs that prepare them for college, careers, and life.

Parents and families are also key constituents. They trust the district to support their children’s growth, keep them safe, and create pathways to opportunity. By actively listening to parents and caregivers, I can better understand the needs of students and advocate for solutions that strengthen family engagement and involvement in education.

Educators and staff are on the front lines every day, shaping the lives of students. They need strong leadership, resources, professional development, and policies that allow them to succeed. I will work to ensure teachers and staff have the support, recognition, and guidance they deserve to create classrooms where students can reach their full potential.

Community members and taxpayers fund our schools and have a vested interest in their success. I am committed to responsible, transparent governance, ensuring that resources are managed wisely, equitably, and in ways that positively impact every student.
Additionally, students’ future employers and the local economy rely on a strong education system to prepare young people for
meaningful careers and community advancement.

Finally, government and regulatory bodies hold our schools accountable for compliance with laws and standards, and the board must meet these responsibilities with integrity.

How would you support the diverse needs of your district’s students, faculty, staff, and community?

Supporting the diverse needs of students, faculty, staff, and the community requires a thoughtful, intentional, and inclusive approach. For students, this means ensuring equitable access to high-quality academic programs, Career Technical Education, enrichment opportunities, and social-emotional supports that reflect their varied learning styles, interests, and backgrounds. Every child must have the tools, resources, and guidance needed to succeed academically and personally, regardless of their circumstances.

For teachers and staff, support comes through professional development, mentorship, and access to the resources necessary to excel in their roles. Teachers and staff are the foundation of student success, and empowering them with training, collaboration opportunities, and recognition fosters a culture of excellence in every classroom. Ensuring that staff feel valued, heard, and supported directly translates to better outcomes for students.

For families and the broader community, it is vital to maintain open, transparent, and consistent communication. Actively listening to parents, caregivers, and community members allows the district to respond to their concerns and incorporate their perspectives into meaningful decision-making. Partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and government entities strengthen schools and create opportunities that benefit students and the community alike.

Across all stakeholders, promoting inclusivity, equity, and respect is essential. Policies and practices must reflect the diversity of the district, ensuring that every individual feels seen, valued, and supported. By addressing the unique needs of students, faculty, staff, and the community, a school board member can build a strong, collaborative, and thriving district where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

How will you build relationships with members of the broader community? Which groups, organizations, stakeholders will you specifically target?

Building strong relationships with the broader community requires consistent communication, active listening, and genuine collaboration. I will prioritize engaging with parents, caregivers, and students, ensuring their voices are central to the decisions we make. Equally important is connecting with educators, school staff, and administrators, who provide firsthand insight into what supports student success.

I will also reach out to community organizations, local businesses, and faith-based groups, leveraging partnerships to expand opportunities for students, enhance programs, and provide additional resources for schools. Engaging neighborhood associations, youth programs, and nonprofit organizations will ensure the district remains connected to the needs and priorities of the neighborhoods it serves. Additionally, I will communicate regularly with local government and policy makers, building trust and collaboration around initiatives that benefit schools and students.

Through board meetings in school auditoriums across the district, town halls, listening sessions, community events, and digital outreach, I will maintain transparency and accessibility, ensuring that residents feel informed, heard, and empowered to participate in shaping the future of our schools. By fostering these partnerships and maintaining open channels of communication, I can strengthen the connection between the district and the broader community, creating a collaborative network that supports every student’s growth and success.

What constitutes good teaching? How will you measure this? How will you support advanced teaching approaches?

Good teaching inspires curiosity, engages students, and helps them think critically while mastering the skills they need to succeed. I would measure this through a combination of student growth, classroom engagement, and feedback from students and peers, rather than relying solely on test scores. To support advanced teaching approaches, I would invest in professional development, provide resources for innovative instruction, and encourage collaboration among educators to share best practices that enhance learning for all students.

What strategies or plans would you advance to ensure the schools are properly funded?

Ensuring our schools are properly funded requires a strategic, multi-faceted approach that balances accountability, advocacy, and community engagement. First, I would advocate for full and equitable allocation of state and federal funding, ensuring that Columbus City Schools receive the resources they are entitled to and that funding formulas reflect the needs of all students.

I would also work to maximize local funding opportunities while being mindful of the burden on taxpayers. This includes supporting policies that address lost revenue from programs like property tax abatements and ensuring transparency in how funds are allocated and spent.

Additionally, I would pursue partnerships with community organizations, businesses, and nonprofits to secure grants, sponsorships, and other supplemental resources that enhance programs, technology, and student services. Engaging families and the community in understanding budget priorities and advocating collectively for investment in schools is also key.

Finally, I would ensure rigorous financial oversight and accountability, monitoring budgets to guarantee funds are used efficiently and effectively to directly benefit students. By combining advocacy, transparency, partnerships, and fiscal responsibility, we can build a funding strategy that supports academic excellence, equity, and long-term success for every student in our district.

What principles drive your policies for safety in schools?

The principles that drive my policies for safety in schools are protection, prevention, equity, and collaboration. Every student, teacher, and staff member has the right to learn and work in an environment that is physically and emotionally safe. Safety policies should prevent harm before it occurs, addressing issues such as bullying, violence, and mental health crises while ensuring that all students feel supported and included.

Equity is central, safety measures must protect every child, regardless of their background, and ensure fair treatment for all students and staff. Collaboration is also key; effective safety policies are developed with input from educators, families, mental health professionals, and community partners. This ensures a holistic approach that balances security with a nurturing environment conducive to learning.

Ultimately, my guiding principle is that safety and learning go hand in hand. A safe, inclusive, and supportive environment empowers students to succeed, teachers to teach effectively, and staff to perform their roles confidently.

How might you support the mental health needs of students/faculty/staff?

Supporting the mental health needs of students, faculty, and staff requires a comprehensive and proactive approach. For students, this includes access to trained counselors, social-emotional learning programs, and resources that help them manage stress, build resilience, and address challenges in a safe environment. For teachers and staff, mental health support can include wellness programs, professional development on stress management, and access to confidential counseling or peer-support networks.

Creating a culture that prioritizes mental wellness is key. This involves fostering open communication, reducing stigma around seeking help, and embedding mental health awareness into daily school practices. Collaboration with community mental health organizations and healthcare providers can also ensure that everyone in the school community has access to the care and support they need to thrive academically, professionally, and personally.

What existing district policies would you like to change, or what new policies would you like to implement?

One existing policy I would like to see changed is the overemphasis on teaching to standardized tests. While assessments are essential for measuring student learning, the current approach often narrows curriculum and limits teachers’ ability to provide creative, individualized, and meaningful instruction. I would advocate for policies that balance accountability with deeper learning, allowing teachers to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and real-world skills.

I would also look at policies that impact student engagement and attendance, ensuring schools provide the supports and resources needed to reduce chronic absenteeism. Policies around equity in resource allocation are another area for improvement, making sure every student has access to the programs, technology, and enrichment opportunities they need to succeed.

Additionally, I would examine policies governing Career Technical Education and workforce readiness programs, advocating for updates that expand access and better prepare students for careers after graduation.

Overall, my focus would be on policies that prioritize student success, empower educators, and ensure equity, while maintaining transparency and accountability in all district decisions.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Columbus Education Association, The Matriots, the Columbus Dispatch

Describe your ideal learning environment for students.

My ideal learning environment is inclusive, engaging, and student-centered, where every child feels safe, valued, and empowered to reach their full potential. Classrooms are dynamic spaces that foster critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration, allowing students to explore ideas, ask questions, and solve real-world problems. Teachers are supported with the resources, training, and flexibility they need to personalize instruction, ensuring that all students, regardless of background or learning style, can succeed.

In this environment, social-emotional learning and mental health support are integrated alongside academics, helping students build resilience, confidence, and positive relationships. Technology and innovative tools, including Career Technical Education programs, enhance learning while preparing students for the workforce and higher education. The broader school community, including families, staff, and community partners is actively engaged, fostering strong relationships and shared responsibility for student success.

Ultimately, my ideal learning environment is one where students are challenged and supported, teachers are empowered, and families feel connected, creating a thriving district where every child has the opportunity to grow, learn, and succeed.

What will you do to build a relationship with parents in the district?

Building strong relationships with parents and caregivers begins with active engagement and consistent communication. I will attend meetings hosted by parent and caregiver groups, such as Pint-Sized Protestors and Parents United for Public Schools, to hear their concerns firsthand and understand the challenges families face. I will also participate in community events that support youth and their families, creating opportunities for dialogue, collaboration, and mutual support.

Beyond attendance, I will maintain open and accessible communication channels, ensuring parents feel heard, informed, and empowered to contribute to decisions affecting their children. By fostering trust, responding to concerns, and celebrating the successes of students and families, I aim to create a strong partnership between the school board and parents. This collaboration will allow us to implement policies and programs that truly reflect the needs of the families we serve, strengthen student outcomes, and build a district where every child and family feels valued and supported.

What are your preferred strategies for faculty, staff, and administration recruitment?

My preferred strategies for recruiting faculty, staff, and administration focus on proactive engagement, early outreach, and community partnerships. I would connect with colleges and universities to identify students interested in teaching and education careers, offering mentorship programs, internships, and student-teaching opportunities that encourage them to enter the profession. Additionally, I would work with middle and high school students to spark interest in teaching careers through career exploration programs, shadowing opportunities, and education-focused clubs, helping students see the impact they could have as future educators.

I would also work to highlight the benefits and impact of working in our district, emphasizing professional growth, collaboration, and support for innovative teaching approaches. Partnering with community organizations and leveraging alumni networks can help identify talented candidates committed to serving our students. Additionally, I would advocate for diverse recruitment pipelines to ensure our staff reflects the communities and students we serve.

By combining early engagement, strategic partnerships, and a focus on retention through mentorship and professional development, we can attract and maintain a high-quality, dedicated team of educators and administrators who are prepared to help every student succeed.

Are there any areas of school curriculum you would like to see changed?

One area I would like to see changed in our school curriculum is the heavy focus on teaching to the test. While testing is important in assessing what a child has learned and identifying areas for growth, the current process often limits teachers’ flexibility and creativity, narrowing students’ learning experiences. I believe curriculum should go beyond standardized testing to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and real-world skills. This includes expanding opportunities for Career Technical Education, project-based learning, and hands-on experiences that prepare students for college, careers, and life.

By reducing overreliance on test-driven instruction, teachers can focus on deeper learning, individualized support, and engaging lessons that meet students where they are. The goal is not to eliminate testing but to ensure that assessments are one of many tools used to measure student progress, rather than dictating how teachers deliver instruction. I would work to implement policies and practices that balance accountability with meaningful learning, empowering teachers to teach with creativity and purpose while ensuring students gain knowledge and skills that truly prepare them for success in school and beyond.

What role should artificial intelligence have in your school district?

Artificial intelligence is increasingly shaping the world around us, and our students should be prepared to navigate this reality. Children should be exposed to AI in meaningful, age-appropriate ways as part of their education, learning not only how to use these tools responsibly but also understanding their potential, limitations, and ethical considerations. By incorporating AI into classrooms, we can enhance learning experiences, foster critical thinking, and equip students with the skills needed for the modern workforce. At the same time, it’s important that AI is used thoughtfully, supporting teachers rather than replacing them, and ensuring equity so that all students, regardless of background, benefit from these innovations.

What is an accomplishment that you are proud of?

One accomplishment I am especially proud of is mentoring an at-risk senior throughout their entire final year of high school. I was able to provide guidance, support, and encouragement during a critical time in their life, helping them navigate academic challenges and personal obstacles. The experience was incredibly rewarding, and being invited to their graduation was a powerful reminder of the impact consistent mentorship and support can have on a student’s success. This experience reinforced my commitment to ensuring that every child has access to the guidance, resources, and encouragement they need to reach their full potential.

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Other survey responses

Ballotpedia identified the following surveys, interviews, and questionnaires Keyes completed for other organizations. If you are aware of a link that should be added, email us.

The Columbus Dispatch

External links

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Footnotes

↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on October 6, 2025

[1] Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on October 6, 2025

[1]

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Janeece Keyes

Contents

Biography

Elections

2025

General election

General election for Columbus City Schools school board (3 seats)

Nonpartisan primary election

Nonpartisan primary for Columbus City Schools school board (3 seats)

Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Endorsements

Campaign themes

2025

Ballotpedia survey responses

Other survey responses

See also

External links

Footnotes

Information about voting

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