Why I’m running for school board: Amy Morton

Editor’s note: The Macon Melody invited all candidates seeking seats on the Bibb County Board of Education to submit columns sharing their qualifications and vision for office. Submissions were subject to a 400-word limit and standard content guidelines, including a prohibition on personal attacks and a requirement that all factual claims be accurate and verifiable.

Of the candidates running, only the two seeking the Post 7 at-large seat responded by the deadline. Their columns appear here, lightly edited to conform to our house style.

I’m running for the Bibb County Board of Education because I believe something simple but important: Every child in every school deserves the opportunity for an excellent education.

For more than 30 years, I’ve worked with children and teens in Macon as a family therapist. I’ve sat with families in their hardest moments, and I’ve seen how much a strong school and a committed teacher can change the trajectory of a child’s life. That work has shaped who I am and why I’m running.

I’m also a small business owner. I understand budgets, payroll and the reality of making tough financial decisions. Our school system needs that balance right now. We need leaders who have a heart for students and a clear, disciplined approach to managing taxpayer dollars.

We don’t have to choose between supporting our schools and protecting taxpayers. We can do both. That means spending smarter, cutting inefficiencies and focusing resources where they matter most: the classroom. I oppose property tax increases and support the senior exemption so longtime residents aren’t pushed out of their homes. At the same time, we can generate new revenue and improve our neighborhoods by holding owners of blighted properties accountable.

As a public school graduate, a parent and a grandparent, this is personal for me. I want our schools to be places where families feel confident, teachers feel supported and students are prepared for the future.

Strong schools are not just about education. They are the foundation of a strong community. They attract businesses, create jobs and help neighborhoods thrive. As a Chamber of Commerce member, I understand how to build partnerships among schools, businesses and community leaders that will move Bibb County forward.

We have real challenges, but Macon has never been a community that backs down. We’ve made progress on downtown redevelopment, public safety and economic growth. Now it’s time to bring that same focus and collaboration to our schools.

This is a pivotal moment for our schools and our community. We need leadership that brings people together, makes thoughtful decisions and stays focused on results.

If you believe in stronger schools, responsible spending and a community that works together, I’d be honored to earn your vote.

Amy Morton is a candidate for the Post 7 at-large seat on the Bibb County Board of Education.