Student withdraws from McKenzie School Board race

VIDA: Devon Lawson, a McKenzie High School student who planned to run for the McKenzie School Board in 2025, has withdrawn from the race and opted instead to enlist in the Army National Guard. Following graduation, he will begin Basic Combat and Advanced Individual Training.

After completing his military training, Lawson plans to attend college in Vermont and pursue a commission as an officer in the Army National Guard, serve for eight years, and enroll in law school.

“This decision was not easy, but I believe it’s the right step for me and the community,” he said. “I’m committed to serving both my country and my community, and this path allows me to do both in a meaningful way. I’m grateful for all the support I’ve received during my campaign, and I look forward to continuing to contribute to McKenzie’s future in new ways.”

His campaign received $746.30 in donations, and he’s pledged to fully reimburse all donors. “I am deeply appreciative of everyone who believed in my vision for the school board,” Lawson said. “It’s important to me that all contributions are returned, as I transition to this new chapter in my life.”

Lawson continues to be interested in local politics and has filed paperwork to begin the process of collecting signatures for an initiative that would reform the way the McKenzie School Board is elected. A proposed initiative would seek support for a Ranked-Choice Voting system to replace the current method of electing board members

“Even though I won’t be running for the board, I believe this initiative is vital for our community,” he feels. “It’s about giving every voter a stronger voice and ensuring that the school board truly reflects the diverse perspectives of our district. I may be serving elsewhere, but my heart is still here, and I want to see McKenzie thrive.”

Lawson is currently working on the process to qualify the proposal for next May’s election. The initiative he believes would “modernize the school board election process, promoting greater voter engagement and accountability.”

“Serving in the Army National Guard and pursuing my education will provide me with the skills and experience to make an even greater impact in the future,” he said. “I hope to use what I learn to continue advocating for fairness, justice, and effective leadership.”

For more information on the initiative, contact [email protected]