Access to education changed the trajectory of my family’s story.

In 1894 my grandmother, Estelle Livingston Stansberry King, was an education pioneer and one of the earliest graduates of University of Maryland Eastern Shore, laying the educational groundwork for my father to serve as New York City's first Black deputy superintendent. My family instilled in me a deep-rooted love of learning and, along with my incredible public school teachers, inspired me to eventually become a teacher and principal.

After both my parents passed away, I had a very hard time — like many kids who experience trauma at a young age. I got in a lot of trouble to the point where I was actually kicked out of high school, and it is because of the public school teachers and school counselors who gave me a second chance that I was able to get back on track. 

It was beyond my family’s wildest dreams that I would serve as U.S. Secretary of Education in the cabinet of the first Black president, but that is exactly the powerful promise of a good education: the opportunity to dream bigger, reach higher, and achieve more.

Now I’m running for governor to ensure the second chances and opportunities afforded to me are possible for every Marylander. Because I know firsthand that teachers understand better than anyone how the right support from the right public institutions can play a major role in lifting up entire communities. If you believe we need a teacher as governor, will you pitch in to our campaign right now?

President Obama always said that history is like a relay race — you can’t accomplish everything in your lifetime, you have to receive the baton from your predecessor and pass it on to the next person. To me, that’s at the core of what teaching is all about. To shape and support the future generation of leaders is an honor and a privilege — but it’s no small feat. Teachers and education professionals need our support, from fully funding mental health supports for both students and educators, building on the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future school funding reforms, and investing in early education. 

Our kids don’t have the time to wait for fully-funded schools, affordable higher education, and a diverse force of teachers, paraeducators, and administrators. Friend, it’s time for a teacher and public-school parent as governor. If you agree, will you give to our campaign today?

Thank you,

John King