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My name is Dawon G. Bahtuoh
Hello! I’m Dawon Bahtuoh, a dedicated community member and former candidate for the Osseo School Board. Overcoming personal challenges and earning dual bachelor’s degrees has shaped my passion for ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed. While my campaign may have ended, I remain committed to staying engaged in our community and supporting our schools in every way I can to create a brighter future for all students.
Elevate
Education
Education is the foundation for a bright future, and I believe it's crucial to raise academic standards to ensure every student has the resources they need to succeed. No matter their background, every student should have access to the tools that help them excel. A strong, relevant curriculum is key to preparing students not just to graduate, but to thrive in college, careers, and beyond.
Empower
Teachers
Teachers are the backbone of our education system, and they deserve our support and respect. It’s important to create an environment where teachers feel valued, empowered, and equipped to succeed. This involves providing them with 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 believe in transparency and responsible budgeting to ensure resources are used wisely and effectively. By prioritizing essential programs and carefully monitoring expenditures, we can ensure our schools are providing 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.
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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.
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Education changed my life, and it’s a cause I remain passionate about. While I am no longer running for the Osseo School Board, I am deeply committed to ensuring that every student in our district has the opportunity to thrive, no matter their circumstances. Our schools are at a critical juncture, and I continue to work towards a future where all students are prepared for the challenges and opportunities ahead.
Together, we can build a community where every student has the resources and support to succeed.
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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.
