African American students engaged in learning

Platform & Priorities

Fighting for Area 4

Tarah Cousar-Johnson's platform is built on the issues that matter most to the students, teachers, and families of the Sumter School District.

Academic Excellence

Every child in Sumter School District deserves a rigorous, high-quality education that prepares them for college, career, and life.

Track progress with ELA, math, and science proficiency rates through evidence-based curriculum and early intervention programs.
Seek to expand access to honors courses, dual enrollment, and career education programs. Explore alternative educational paths such as technical, magnet, and college preparatory academies.
Ensure schools have the instructional materials, technology, and support staff students need to succeed.

Teacher Recruitment & Retention

Great schools start with great teachers. Tarah is committed to working with leadership to make Sumter a place where talented educators want to build their careers.

Advocate for competitive salaries and bonuses that reflect the value teachers bring to our community.
Invest in professional development and mentorship programs that help teachers grow and thrive.
Encourage a reduction of administrative burdens so teachers can focus on what they do best — teach.

Safe & Supportive Schools

Students cannot learn — and teachers cannot teach — in environments where they do not feel safe and supported.

Strengthen school safety protocols and ensure every campus has access to adequate counseling and mental health resources.
Implement restorative practices that assist parents and the school and with addressing the root causes of discipline issues to keep students in school.
Create welcoming, inclusive school climates where every student feels they belong.

Fiscal Responsibility & Transparency

Taxpayer dollars must be spent wisely — in the classroom and to impact students directly, not on bureaucracy.

Support regular audits and publish results so the community can see how funds are used- good, bad, and indifferent.
Prioritize budget allocations that directly impact student outcomes and teacher support.
Hold the district accountable to its commitments through consistent oversight and follow-through. Transparency is key.

Family & Community Engagement

The best outcomes for students happen when schools and families work as true partners.

Expand family engagement programs and ensure communication is accessible to parents, guardians, and community.
Build stronger partnerships with local businesses, faith communities, and nonprofits to support student success.
Encourage constituents to host regular community forums in Area 4 so they always have a direct line to their school board representative.

Stand Behind These Priorities

Help re-elect Tarah and keep this work moving forward for Area 4.

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