Joseph

Nelson

CANDIDATE FOR KCPS BOARD OF DIRECTORS


ABOUT JOSEPH

A dedicated leader, Joseph specializes in community engagement, strategic partnerships, and innovative solutions. With experience at Goldman Sachs and roles in organizations like the Entrepreneur & Small Business Council, Brothers on the Hill, and 100 Black Men, he’s driven impactful initiatives in risk analysis, diversity, and team development. His leadership extends to programs like the Center for Neighborhoods and the City of Kansas City’s Community Engagement University, where he continues working toward positive change.


GUIDING PHILOSOPHY

β€œEducation is the cornerstone of our communities and our country. β€œ

-Bill Frist


POLICY PLATFORMS

After engaging with parents and school leaders, I’ve developed these policy priorities.

  • The health of our public schools directly correlates with the strength and future of our entire community.  Stronger schools benefit everyone.  Stronger schools mean stronger businesses, safer neighborhoods, and a more connected community.  A well-educated workforce benefits the local economy, lowers crime rates, and attracts investment.  The health of our schools directly impacts the overall well-being of the entire city & region.  Better schools mean a stronger, safer, & more vibrant Kansas City.

  • Our schools’ impacts go far beyond the classroom.  Public education directly affects property values, taxes, and the general health of the local economy.  Public education is a key factor in economic growth, job creation, and community development.  A strong school district can create a more prosperous and stable environment for everyone.  Schools are not just places for children to learnβ€”they are the training grounds for our future leaders.

  • A community-centered public education system realizes that parents & guardians alone are not solely responsible for ensuring that our students’ academic and enrichment needs are being met.   We ALL play a role in OUR students’ success.  The collective strength of the school district lies within its relationship with the community and the partnerships between schools, families, local businesses, and community organizations.  Everyone has a role in creating a better society.

Who can I vote for?

Find your subdistrict and representative

β€œIt is the local community that needs to own the commitment to education.”

-Adam Braun

Upcoming events

  • Keystone Sessions: KC Community of Bilingual Practice (CBP)

    2/12/25 4p-8p

    Keystone CoLAB, 800 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO 64108

    I will be moderating this panel. Join us!

  • Community Conversation: The Voice of Your Heart

    2/20/25 6p-7:30p

    Kansas City Museum, 3218 Gladstone Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64123

  • Mapping Inequality

    2/23/25 2p-3p

    The Kansas City Public Library: Central Library 14 W 10th St, Kansas City, MO 64105

  • Building nonpartisan partnerships with Bolder Advocacy

    3/3/25 1p-2:30p

    Online event

Let's make change together

Let's make change together