What School Board Members Really Do — And Why It Matters More Than Ever in Brandywine

Too often, school board races fly under the radar. But make no mistake—what happens in those boardrooms shapes what happens in our classrooms. And in the Brandywine School District, where over 10,000 students attend 17 schools and rely on a $257.7 million budget to fund their futures, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

School board members in Delaware aren’t elected to simply attend meetings. We’re entrusted with something far greater: guiding the future of public education. That means approving and overseeing budgets—including the $111.3 million dedicated to educators and staff. It means ensuring that every dollar supports student learning, academic recovery, school safety, special education, and the tools our teachers need to thrive.

But this job isn’t just about spreadsheets and statutes. It’s about trust.

As your school board member, my commitment goes beyond policy. I will be present. I will listen. I will work side-by-side with parents, teachers, staff, and students to build a district that’s not only accountable—but responsive.

Because being a board member means more than following the law—it means living up to our community’s values.

We are tasked with setting policy, hiring and evaluating the superintendent, and ensuring the district complies with Delaware Code Title 14. But we are also called to be champions for children, stewards of taxpayer dollars, and bridge-builders between schools and families.

That’s why I’m running.

Not to make headlines, but to make a difference. Not to play politics, but to build trust and deliver results.

Our children deserve leaders who are prepared, principled, and passionate about public education. Leaders who understand that every vote we cast affects a child’s future. That’s the work I’ve done as President of New Castle County Council—overseeing $3.5 billion in public funds, protecting services, and delivering for families.

And it’s the work I’m ready to do for Brandywine.

This election isn’t about me. It’s about you—your kids, your neighborhood, your future.

Let’s build a school district that reflects our highest hopes, not our lowest expectations.

Let’s lead with purpose.

🔗 Learn more or get involved at karenhartleynagle.com

🪧 Request a yard sign (302) 344-7828, make a donation, or follow along on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter

🗳 Vote May 13th for Karen Hartley-Nagle, Brandywine School Board, District B.