General  | Platform

Experience & Qualifications 

Q:  Why do you want to be a member of the Atlanta Board of Education?

A:  “The Atlanta Board of Education currently spends approximately $11,000 to $13,000 per year, per student. Further, the Atlanta community makes a significant contribution to public education with 51% of our tax dollars going directly to support Atlanta Public Schools (APS). Atlanta has the highest per-student expenditure in the southeast. Therefore, it is clear that money is not the only solution to improving student achievement.” “APS has made significant gains in student achievement at the elementary school level over the past three years. If the trend data for these students continues, we may see steady increases in graduation rates every year for the next 9 to 10 years. I offer myself to serve as a member of the Atlanta Board of Education to keep the focus on ensuring that all children are educated and graduate from high school.”

 

Q:  What specific expertise can you bring to the Board?

A:  “I am an attorney with the Georgia Department of Corrections (“DOC”). In my position there, I must apply innovative educational strategies to accomplish the Department’s objectives. I have extensive experience with policy analysis and development, program evaluations, personnel, budget development, and measuring operational efficiencies. I believe my collaborative style and these experiences prepare me well to work with the Superintendent and Board to keep the focus on ensuring that all children are educated and graduate from high school.”

 

Q:  Have you ever served as a member of a Board?

A:  “Yes, I am a former Board member of the Alternate Life Paths Program (“ALPP”), which is a program that assists homeless teenagers with shelter and life skills development. I am also the past president of the Georgia Association of Black Women Attorneys (“GABWA”), and served on its executive board for a term of five years.”

More About Yolanda

Yolanda was born in Oklahoma, and is a product of the public schools in her home state. She was selected for the Summer Law Studies program at Oxford University , Oxford, England, and obtained her Juris Doctor at the University of Oklahoma.

Yolanda serves as Supervising Counsel, in the Georgia Department of Corrections. In her position, she has seen, in person, the impact of a lack of education on young people's lives. This experience has compelled her to run for office, so that she can help break the cycle of ignorance, poverty, and crime.

For a more complete biography of Yolanda's background and experience, please continue to the next page.