Jacqueline for Kentucky Announces Endorsement from Better Schools Kentucky
LOUISVILLE, KY — Today, Better Schools Kentucky (BSK) officially announced its endorsement of Jacqueline Coleman for governor, pointing to her unwavering commitment to public education.
This is the latest in a string of endorsements by organized labor for Coleman’s gubernatorial campaign, including Teamsters 89, SMART Local 110, Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Local 4, Teamsters 651, International IUE-CWA, and Teamsters 236.
"I am deeply honored to receive the endorsement of Better Schools Kentucky," said Lt. Governor Jacqueline Coleman. "As a former teacher, this endorsement is personal to me. I was a teacher longer than I have served as lieutenant governor so I view every challenge our Commonwealth faces through the lens of a classroom. Kentucky's educators work tirelessly to prepare our children for the future, and I will always stand shoulder-to-shoulder with them to ensure our public schools receive the support and respect they deserve."
Representing nearly 6,000 public school educators who care for almost 100,000 students across Jefferson County, BSK selected Coleman for her proven track record as a lifelong educator and champion for public schools.
“Lt. Governor Coleman exemplifies the values we hold dear,” said George Nichols Jr., chair, Better Schools Kentucky. “As a former teacher, coach, and principal, she has walked the halls of our schools, stood before classrooms full of eager minds and led with a vision rooted in real-world educational experience. Her dedication to improving educational opportunities and creating pathways for student success resonates deeply with those of us who have dedicated our lives to teaching and shaping the future. She understands not just the policies but the people—our students, educators and families—who are impacted by decisions made in Frankfort.”
“We are proud to endorse Lt. Governor Jacqueline Coleman for governor,” said Maddie Shepherd, president, Jefferson County Teachers Association. “Not only has Jacqueline been an ally of JCTA, and a strong advocate for public education, which is the core of our democracy communities in Kentucky, but she has always stood up for the working families of Kentucky; advocating for everyone in Kentucky to have a fair shot and an opportunity to build the better Kentucky future we all want.”
As a former teacher, high school basketball coach, and administrator, Coleman has prioritized public education throughout her administration. She, along with Gov. Andy Beshear, removed the testing fee for adults taking the GED test resulting in 15,000 Kentuckians furthering their education, remade the Kentucky Board of Education to include a classroom teacher and student, and brought over $40 million in mental health resources to schools. Her platform continues to focus on raising educator pay, fully funding public schools, and ensuring classroom safety and resources across the Commonwealth.
The endorsement comes as BSK mobilizes its members to support candidates who prioritize public education in upcoming elections.
About Better Schools Kentucky
Better Schools Kentucky is a political action committee made up of Kentucky teachers. They seek to support pro-public education candidates who will promote what is best for children and public education throughout the Commonwealth.
About the Jefferson County Teachers Association
The Jefferson County Teachers Association was established in 1968 and is the collective bargaining agent for the certified personnel employees of the Jefferson County Public Schools. They represent teachers, librarians, speech clinicians, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and more in every one of the public schools throughout Jefferson County.