Meet the Atlanta Board of Education candidates: Marlissa Crawford for District 2

On Dec. 2, three runoff elections will occur for Atlanta Board of Education seats, including the District 2 position representing the middle of the city. This article focuses on Marlissa Crawford, a flight attendant who received 3,859 votes (39.4%) in the Nov. 4 general election. Her answers to Atlanta Community Press Collective questions about her background, District 2 and priorities if elected are below. 

Answers are condensed for space.

How would you describe Atlanta education (especially in District 2) in its qualities and challenges?

District 2 is one of the most vast and diverse communities in Atlanta, and our schools deserve vested leadership that reflects that growth.

We face significant challenges that demand thoughtful, community-centered leadership. District 2 is experiencing shifting enrollment patterns, and many of our buildings need critical facility upgrades to ensure safe and modern learning environments. Too many students continue to face opportunity gaps in literacy, math, enrichment access and wraparound services that support things like truancy, mental health and nutrition. Our teachers need stronger support to stay, grow and thrive in the Atlanta Public Schools system, and students need to feel heard and supported in their journey. 

I will work to balance enrollment, improve academic outcomes, expand whole-child services and ensure that families and educators have a real voice in district decisions. District 2 deserves solutions rooted in community, and I’m ready to lead with integrity and action.

What are specific education policies you’d like to change? 

• Attendance & Truancy Response
• Student Discipline & Restorative Practices
• Enrollment Boundaries & School Choice
• Special Education & Student Services
• Teacher Staffing & Class Size
• Health & Wellness Policies
• Facilities & Capital Planning
• Academic Acceleration & Intervention
• Parent & Community Engagement

How do you intend to address students’ academic outcomes and health?

I believe we can strengthen students’ academic outcomes and overall health by focusing on high-quality instruction, targeted tutoring, strong literacy and math supports and expanded learning opportunities, while also making sure students have access to essential physical and mental health services. By integrating school-based health centers, increased counseling, nutritious meals, daily physical activity and wraparound supports like community partnerships and attendance interventions, we can remove barriers that affect learning and well-being. When students are healthy, supported and engaged, they are better prepared to succeed academically and thrive long-term.

How will you approach the issue of funding, declining enrollment and closures in Atlanta Public Schools?

As a candidate, I’ll put students first while confronting a tough fiscal reality: APS is operating well below capacity and must make careful choices so classroom learning isn’t sacrificed. I will insist on a transparent, equity-centered facilities process—with objective criteria, phased implementation, binding mitigation for families and staff and guaranteed reinvestment of savings into classrooms. At the same time I’ll fight for state funding reform, expand proven early-learning and career pathways to retain and attract students and repurpose underused buildings into community assets that strengthen neighborhoods. 

What are your biggest lessons from PTA and PTO boards, the Magnolia (GA) Chapter of The Links and Ashview Heights Neighborhood Association? 

From PTA and PTO work, I learned that the most effective decisions come from bringing all voices to the table: parents, teachers, students and support staff. Families engage more when they feel seen, heard and valued. Building trust requires consistent communication and a willingness to meet people where they are. 

My time with the Magnolia (GA) Chapter of The Links reinforced how disciplined, mission-focused leadership creates meaningful results. The Links Inc. is rooted in service, mentorship and excellence. Through this work, I learned how to lead with intention, uphold high standards and execute programs that strengthen families and uplift communities.  

Working with the Ashview Heights Neighborhood Association taught me that change starts small, street by street, neighbor by neighbor. I learned how local partnerships with city departments, small businesses and residents can help address safety, beautification, housing concerns and community pride. Strong communities are built through consistency and presence. 

Across all three organizations, I saw firsthand that progress happens when people from different backgrounds come together around a shared goal. Whether coordinating volunteers, organizing events or addressing neighborhood needs, collaboration is what turns ideas into action.

What did you learn from your stepfather’s experience as Columbus School Board treasurer? 

I learned that relationships matter. My stepfather allowed me to see firsthand that leadership isn’t about a title, it’s about service. It’s about listening, showing up, solving problems and helping create pathways for others to succeed.

For more information on Crawford and her platform, visit crawford4aps.com.