Candidate: John Dale "JD" Perryman

Dear Community Members,

I am proud and excited to announce my candidacy for Gilchrist County School Board, District 2.

As a lifelong advocate for education and a dedicated parent and grandparent, I am thrilled to announce my candidacy for the Gilchrist County School Board District 2. My vision is rooted in family values, integrity, honesty, and an unwavering commitment to the importance of education.

About Me: As a proud retired firefighter, I represent the second generation of my family’s dedication to fire rescue services. My 30-year tenure with Gainesville Fire Rescue is a testament to this legacy. I’m blessed with a 27-year marriage and a wonderful family of four children. My legacy continues with my eldest son, who is a third-generation firefighter serving with Gainesville Fire Rescue, and another son who upholds the law as a deputy in Levy County. My daughters have pursued noble paths in education—one teaching in Sarasota County and the other having served as a pre-kindergarten teacher. All my children are products of Gilchrist County Schools, which they attended and from which they graduated. My partner in life, with over 24 years in education, has been shaping young minds in Gilchrist County. We are grandparents to nine delightful grandchildren, all of whom are currently enriching their lives at Gilchrist County Schools. My roots run deep in Gilchrist County, where I was born, raised, and educated, culminating in my graduation from Trenton High School.

My vision is firmly anchored in the bedrock of family values, guided by integrity and honesty, and steadfastly dedicated to the pivotal role of education in our lives.
1. Family First
Family is the cornerstone of our community. As a parent and grandparent of children who graduated from and currently attend Gilchrist County Schools, I understand the joys and challenges of raising children. I believe that strong schools are essential for nurturing our children's growth, character, and future success. When elected, I will prioritize policies that strengthen family-school partnerships, ensuring that every child feels supported and valued.
2. Upholding Integrity
Integrity is non-negotiable. As a school board member, I pledge to act with transparency, fairness, and accountability. Our community deserves leaders who make decisions based on what's right, not what's expedient. I will champion ethical practices, open communication, and responsible stewardship of resources.
3. Honesty in Action
Honesty builds trust. I promise to be forthright about the challenges and opportunities facing our schools. Let's engage in honest conversations about curriculum, funding, and student well-being. Together, we can create an environment where truth prevails, and our students thrive.
4. Elevating Education
Education transforms lives. Our schools should be vibrant hubs of learning, innovation, and inclusivity. I will advocate for:
Teacher/Staff Support: Our educators are heroes. Let's provide them with the tools, training, and respect they need to excel.
Student Well-Being: Mental health, safety, and a positive school climate are paramount.
Intellectual growth and Critical Thinking- Children should not merely absorb information; they should learn how to think independently. It’s crucial that education remains free from any hidden agendas that could compromise our national pride, childhood innocence, and parental rights.
Community Engagement: I'll actively seek input from parents, teachers, leaders, and students to shape policies that benefit everyone.
Join me in this journey to empower our schools and uplift our community. Together, we can build a brighter future for Gilchrist County students.

I’m not on the inside. I’m on YOUR side!

John Dale “JD” Perryman for School Board District 2