Voters in Bedford, Bedford Heights, Oakwood Village, and Walton Hills will select members of the Bedford City School District Board of Education on Tuesday, Nov. 4. As part of The Bedford Tribune’s nonpartisan election coverage, all candidates were invited to complete a survey to share information about their background, priorities, and goals for the district.

Background and Experience

Anthony A. Akins, Sr. is a Virtual Producer at Deloitte, where he manages online meetings and presentations for company partners and executives. A U.S. Navy veteran, he credits his service with developing precision, discipline, and problem-solving skills. Akins holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration and brings extensive project-management experience to his role as a current school board member.

He is a 1996 graduate of Bedford High School, a parent of five children—three recent Bedford High School graduates and two current students—and a former Oakwood Village councilperson who served for 10 years advocating for residents and community well-being.

Why He’s Running

Akins says his commitment to Bedford schools stems from being both an alumnus and an active parent. His goal is to continue improving the district’s performance and community trust. His vision includes:

  • Enhancing educational excellence by maintaining rigorous, future-focused curriculum standards.
  • Promoting equity and inclusion so every student feels valued and supported.
  • Strengthening community engagement through partnerships among parents, educators, and local leaders.
  • Innovating for the future by incorporating new technologies and teaching methods.

Key Challenges and Priorities

Akins identifies financial stability as the district’s most pressing challenge, emphasizing the need to manage reduced state funding responsibly. He also highlights staff morale, noting the importance of ensuring employees feel valued and equipped to succeed.

To support teachers and staff, he advocates for stronger communication with the teachers’ union, regular professional development, and prioritizing mental health and wellness for all members of the school community.

Fiscal Responsibility and Transparency

Akins supports continued collaboration with the treasurer’s department to maintain clear and accessible financial reports. He favors monthly updates, long-term forecasts, and open board meetings that invite resident participation. His team proposes hosting quarterly town halls and community surveys to strengthen two-way communication and accountability.

Collaboration Across Communities

To unite Bedford, Bedford Heights, Oakwood Village, and Walton Hills, Akins supports hosting joint community events, family nights, and service projects that build shared pride and engagement. He also envisions mentoring and tutoring programs offered in partnership with local recreation centers to connect students with support networks and role models.

Engaging Parents and Guardians

Akins views parents and guardians as vital partners in district decision-making. He encourages families to participate in open board meetings, surveys, and advisory committees to ensure district policies reflect community priorities.

Defining Student Success

He defines success as a balance of academic achievement, personal growth, and readiness for future opportunities—measured through academics, attendance, engagement, and emotional well-being. He supports regularly reviewing district metrics to reflect students’ evolving needs.

Closing Message

Akins emphasizes accountability, transparency, and collaboration as the foundation of his leadership. Alongside fellow candidates Montez Morton, Sr. and Chris Callender, he seeks to “Lead with Integrity,” be a “Voice for the Voiceless,” and “Strengthen School/Home Connections” through open dialogue and community trust.

Contact: akins4bedfordschools@gmail.com