Meet your SWCS Board of Education Candidates
Programming Guru
Camille Peterson
Camille Peterson has called the South Western community home since 2004 and has been an active volunteer across the district, including service with the PTA. She is a social worker with COAAA (Agency on Aging), an award‑winning volunteer, and was appointed to the School Board in 2024. A proud West Side resident and mother of Westland High School graduates, she cares deeply about the future of our students and schools. Camille is running to support students, empower educators, and strengthen our schools—championing equitable, high‑quality education, meaningful support for teachers, and a strong family voice in every decision with integrity.
Creative Leader
Chelsea Alkire
Chelsea Alkire is a 13-year educator, including 10 years in the classroom and 9 years at Finland Middle and Franklin Heights High School. A multilingual teacher and current Ohio Teacher of the Year nominee, she champions equal, inclusive, and accessible opportunities for every student—regardless of nationality, race, religion, school zone, or family finances—and believes every Board of Education should include an educator. Chelsea continually studies education and public policy to make research-based decisions. She is a proud mom of two, including one with special needs, and a Columbus City Schools graduate (MFHS '09), proudly serving her community.
Creative Leader
Dr. Kelly Dillon
An award winning Wittenberg Communication and Digital Media Professor, Dr. Kelly Dillon has lived in the district for more than 20 years, is an educator, and a parent with children in our schools. She believes the Board of Education should represent the entire community and have real stakes in its success. Kelly is running to keep public dollars in public schools, increase transparency in every decision, and ensure every learner is respected and valued. She will prioritize safe, welcoming schools and open communication with families and educators. She brings classroom experience and a collaborative approach to every decision.
Our Top Priorities
District Moms, Educators, Volunteers
Fiscal Responsibility
Curb nonessential spending and focus dollars on students and classrooms.
Transparency
Follow sunshine and public records laws with proactive, plain‑language communication.
Bi‑Monthly Town Halls
Regular community meetings to collaborate and gather feedback.
Join the Campaign
Endorsements
Leaders and organizations who stand with our students, families, and educators.
Gun Sense Candidate
Moms Demand Action
MPAC Endorsement
MPAC
NASW
National Association of Social Workers