Mariam Harley: A Passionate Advocate for Education and Community Engagement

In the upcoming election for the Caddo Parish School Board, District 7 candidate Mariam Harley is stepping up with a clear vision for the future of public education. As an entrepreneur, a mother, and a dedicated advocate for community engagement, she sees a pressing need for stronger representation and policies that truly serve students, parents, and educators.

Why Mariam Harley is Running for the School Board

Harley’s decision to run for the school board stemmed from a noticeable lack of community involvement in educational decision-making. After attending a school tour with Superintendent Keith Burton, she was struck by the absence of public participation. However, just months earlier, a school closure meeting had drawn a massive crowd.

“The disconnect was clear,” she explains. “People show up when there’s a crisis, but not when solutions are being discussed. We need to change that.”
Her concerns deepened after reading Project 2025, particularly its implications for education and low-income families. “We can’t continue electing politicians who don’t truly work for the community,” she asserts. “I have the passion, the experience, and the knowledge to make a real difference.”

Priorities if Elected

One of Harley’s main priorities is community engagement. She envisions a system where teachers focus on teaching, administrators manage effectively, and community organizations step in to provide crucial resources.

1. Expanding Community Support in Schools
Harley proposes partnering with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and local businesses to support Title I schools. “Teachers and administrators shouldn’t have to struggle to provide students with clothing, food, and other essentials. Partnering with organizations like Goodwill can ensure students’ needs are met without burdening educators.”

2. Behavioral Health Agencies in Schools
She emphasizes the need for on-campus behavioral health services, addressing both student and family challenges. “Counselors are already overwhelmed with testing and administrative duties. We need professionals focused solely on mental health and social services. Schools should be safe community hubs where families can get help when they need it.”

3. Strengthening STEM and Vocational Programs
Harley wants to enhance STEM education by ensuring it includes hands-on, project-based learning. “Our STEM programs should be preparing students for the real world. When my son entered an engineering program, I expected cutting-edge projects, but he was doing the same experiments we did 30 years ago. We need real innovation.”

She also supports expanding vocational training. “Not every student will attend college, and we must provide viable career pathways. We need true vocational programs where students gain hands-on experience in fields like electrical work, computer science, and healthcare.”

Role of a School Board Member

Harley believes the school board’s primary responsibility is ensuring policies are followed and that the superintendent remains accountable. “We need board members who understand policy, ask tough questions, and advocate for policies that truly benefit students and teachers.”
She also stresses the importance of staying connected with the community. “I plan to hold regular meetings in my district to hear directly from parents and educators. Transparency builds trust, and we need that now more than ever.”

Challenges and Rewards of the Role

Harley acknowledges that one of the biggest challenges will be convincing other board members to support her initiatives. However, she believes the most rewarding part will be seeing tangible improvements in schools. “Nothing compares to seeing kids succeed because of policies you helped implement.”

She also praises the success of schools in neighboring districts. “Bossier Parish is thriving without magnet schools because of strong teachers and administrators. We need to bring that same energy and accountability to Caddo Parish.”

On Leadership and Public Service

Harley understands that serving on the school board comes with great responsibility. “People will call me with concerns, and I have to be ready to respond. In the past, I wasn’t sure I was ready for that level of commitment. But now, I know it’s time.”

She is also committed to bringing the community together. “No one makes change alone. I want to build a network of people passionate about improving our schools.”

Final Thoughts

Mariam Harley is running for the Caddo Parish School Board to create lasting change. “I’m dedicated to seeing my community do better. I’m not afraid to ask tough questions or push for necessary changes. But most importantly, I’m a team player who will work with others to make real progress.”

With her focus on policy, community engagement, and real-world educational improvements, Harley hopes to bring fresh energy and accountability to the school board. Her vision is clear: a district where students thrive, educators are supported, and the community is fully engaged in shaping the future of public education.


Election day is approaching, and voters in District 7 have a crucial decision to make. Will they choose a candidate who truly understands their needs and is ready to fight for them? Mariam Harley is ready to step up and serve.