Urgent Debate Tonight: 6 Candidates Compete for Columbus School Board

UPDATE: A high-stakes debate is set to take place tonight, October 21, 2025, at 6 p.m. in downtown Columbus, as six candidates vie for three critical positions on the Columbus City Schools Board of Education. This election comes at a pivotal moment as the state’s largest school district grapples with a $2 billion annual budget and urgent financial challenges.

Tensions are high as candidates aim to restore community trust after a scandal rocked the board in 2024. The previous administration’s unethical tactics to silence critics of a controversial school closure plan have heightened calls for transparency and accountability. The community is demanding real leadership that prioritizes the future of Columbus’ children.

The debate, hosted by the Columbus Dispatch, will be held at the Columbus Metropolitan Library’s main branch located at 96 S. Grant St. The event is free and open to the public, and will also be live-streamed on the Dispatch’s website along with its YouTube and Facebook channels.

Moderated by Michael Shearer and Amelia Robinson, the debate is expected to deliver crucial insights into each candidate’s vision for the district. Questions from Dispatch readers will be included, and community engagement is strongly encouraged.

The candidates are:

– **Antoinette Miranda, 67**: Focuses on fostering parent and community engagement.
– **Patrick Katzenmeyer, 41**: Advocates for a comprehensive facilities master plan and universal pre-K for all families in Columbus.
– **Jermaine Kennedy, 44**: Prioritizes career readiness programs and equitable resource allocation.
– **Mounir Lynch, 29**: Emphasizes community-involved decision-making and tackling systemic barriers.
– **Janeece Keyes, 56**: Committed to improving student achievement and responsible funding use.
– **Kimberly Mason**: Seeks to reform tax abatements and build career pathways.

With public interest at an all-time high, this debate is not just a contest for board seats; it’s an opportunity for candidates to address the pressing issues facing Columbus City Schools. The future of nearly 50,000 students hangs in the balance as voters prepare to make a decision that could reshape the educational landscape of the city.

What’s next? Community members are advised to tune in tonight for this critical discussion that promises to address the urgent needs of the district and its students. The stakes have never been higher, and your voice matters! For those unable to attend in person, submitting questions for the candidates is encouraged through the Dispatch’s platform.

Stay informed and engaged as Columbus City Schools face a turning point in leadership and direction. Don’t miss this chance to hear from those who aspire to lead.