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My name is Dawon G. Bahtuoh
Hello! I’m Dawon Bahtuoh, a dedicated community member and candidate for the Osseo School Board. With a background that includes overcoming challenging circumstances and earning dual bachelor’s degrees, I’m passionate about ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. I’m excited to bring my experience and dedication to our schools to create a brighter future for all students.
Elevate
Education
Education is the foundation for a bright future. I’m dedicated to raising academic standards and ensuring that every student, regardless of background, has access to the resources they need to excel. By focusing on a rigorous, relevant curriculum, we can prepare our students not just to graduate, but to thrive in college, careers, and beyond.
Empower
Teachers
Teachers are the backbone of our education system. They deserve our support and respect. I’m committed to fostering an environment where teachers feel valued, empowered, and equipped to succeed. This means giving them the tools and autonomy they need to manage their classrooms effectively and inspire their students.
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Ensure
Accountability
Every dollar spent in our district should directly support our students' education. I’m committed to transparency and responsible budgeting, ensuring that our resources are used wisely and effectively. By prioritizing essential programs and carefully monitoring expenditures, we can make sure that our schools are delivering the highest quality education possible.
Background and Experience
About Me.
Growing up in Providence, Rhode Island, surrounded by drugs, violence, and the struggles of project housing, I learned early that education was the key to changing my future. With divorced parents—an immigrant father from Liberia and a mother who barely finished high school—we relied on food stamps, WIC, and free lunches to survive.
But I didn’t let those challenges define me. I worked hard, became the first in my family to graduate college, and earned a double major from the University of Rhode Island. Now, nearly 20 years later, I've built a life I'm proud of in Minnesota, raising my children in this community.
Education changed my life. I’m running for the Osseo School Board to ensure every student in our district has the same opportunity to thrive, no matter their circumstances. Our schools are at a critical juncture, and I’m committed to ensuring they prepare students not only for today’s challenges but for the opportunities of tomorrow.
Together, we can create a school district where every student can succeed.
Education
Undergrad
B.A. Political Science
B.A. African & Afr-American Studies
University of Rhode Island
I hold dual bachelor’s degrees in Political Science and African and African American Studies from the University of Rhode Island. My studies in Political Science provided a solid grounding in government, policy analysis, and civic engagement. The African and African American Studies degree offered valuable insights into diverse cultures and social dynamics.
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Throughout my education, I developed strong analytical, research, and critical thinking skills. I engaged in meaningful research, participated in internships, and contributed to community projects. These experiences have equipped me with a well-rounded perspective on policy and a commitment to understanding and addressing diverse community needs.
Grad Studies
Human Resources Management
Human Resources Transformation
Cornell University
I pursued advanced studies in Human Resources Management and HR Transformation, focusing on strategic talent management and organizational development. My coursework equipped me with expertise in modern HR practices, employee engagement, and organizational change.
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Key accomplishments include leading impactful projects on workforce planning and HR strategy, which enhanced my skills in problem-solving and strategic decision-making. These studies have prepared me to apply innovative HR solutions and drive positive organizational change, contributing to a more effective and dynamic work environment.
Key Skills and Qualifications
Developed cross-cultural competence through international nonprofit work in East Africa.
Refined strategic decision-making in operational and HR roles.
Strengthened stakeholder engagement through volunteer and community involvement.
Commitment to Education
Committed to education through volunteer roles in community engagement and children's ministry.
Dedicated to fostering positive, enriching learning environments where every student can thrive.
Professional Experience
Operations Manager for an organization with a boarding school in East Africa, overseeing complex operations and resource allocation.
Financial services background in sales and service, offering strong commercial acumen and budget management expertise.
HR strategy and Future of Work specialist at a Fortune 500 company, with a focus on talent management and organizational development.
Ways to help us grow
Get Involved
Host a yard sign
Show your support by displaying a yard sign in your front yard. It's a simple yet effective way to increase visibility in your neighborhood.
Volunteer for Literature Drops
Help spread the word by delivering campaign literature to homes in the community. No door-knocking required, just drop and go!
Donate
Every dollar helps us print more campaign materials and reach more voters. Even small contributions make a big difference.
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