Disclaimer: Publication of this article does not constitute an endorsement by The Bedford Tribune. All election-related submissions are shared to inform voters and provide equal access for candidates to present their platforms.
BEDFORD, OH — Three candidates with deep community ties and decades of public service are running as a slate for the Bedford City Schools Board of Education. Anthony Akins, Sr., Chris Callender, and Montez Morton, Sr. bring a shared commitment to transparency, equity, and student-first leadership—anchored by their campaign tagline: “Vote for leadership that listens, supports, and leads with integrity.”
Anthony Akins, Sr., a proud graduate of the Bedford City School District and longtime Oakwood Village resident, is seeking his second term on the board. Akins is a former Oakwood Village councilperson and the parent of five children—three Bedford graduates and two currently enrolled in the district. His leadership is grounded in lived experience, public service, and a deep belief in equitable, student-centered decision-making.
Chris Callender is a seasoned K–12 school administrator and a longtime Oakwood Village resident. Callender also served as a Oakwood Village councilperson and has spent over 25 years coaching and mentoring youth through sports. He currently serves as an adjunct professor, preparing future educators with the same values he brings to this campaign: integrity, accountability, and care.
Montez Morton, Sr., is a lifelong Bedford resident, a longtime union member, and the parent of Bedford graduates. Morton’s leadership is rooted in advocacy, labor equity, and community empowerment. His decades of union involvement reflect a commitment to fairness, transparency, and standing up for working families—values he brings to the school board race with clarity and conviction.
Together, Akins, Callender, and Morton offer a balanced and experienced team ready to serve with integrity. Their platform centers on responsible governance, transparent communication, and a shared belief that students must always come first—and accountability must always follow.
“We’re here to listen. We’re here to lead. And we’re here to ensure that students remain at the center of every decision,” the slate shared in a joint statement.
The election will be held on Tuesday, November 4, with early voting underway. If you want to see change, Bedford, Bedford Heights, Oakwood Village, and Walton Hills voters have the opportunity to choose leadership that reflects the values of the district—and the voices of the families it serves. Vote November 4th.
Anthony Akins, Sr.
email: akins4bedfordschools@gmail.com
Chris Callender
email: callenderforbedfordschools@gmail.com
Montez Morton, Sr.
email: montezmortonsr4bedfordschool@gmail.com
