Young Candidate Runs for School Board

The first candidate for the Tri-Valley School Board announced his campaign Monday. He’s a younger candidate than many have ever seen in Muskingum County.

Jason Schaumleffel wants to use his campaign not only to win, but also to encourage younger people to get involved in politics. He explained one of his goals of running for the board.

“My sister almost has an associate’s degree thanks to post secondary education, Schaumleffel said. “In Muskingum County where many families can’t afford to send their kids to college, it’s very important that we’re able to send those kids to college and get that degree where some of those kids who weren’t going to get an associate’s degree now have that. They’re valuable members and from a county and school district standpoint, we can bring better jobs in because people are educated enough.

Schaumleffel is just 19 years old. He’s going into his second year at Muskingum University. However, he said that doesn’t mean he’s not ready to serve the Tri-Valley School District.

“I had a lot of people say you’re too young to run,” Schaumleffel said. “I tell them, I’m working eight internships this summer. I work with the county commissioners. I do data analysis and statistics. I’m a leader in so many organizations that I have the experience and the know-how to be effective board member.”

By filing Monday, Schaumleffel is the youngest candidate on the November ballot. He is also the first person to announce his campaign for one of the three available seats on the school board.