Educational Choice Candidates Prevail in Missouri Primary

The American Federation for Children (AFC), the nation’s voice for educational choice, congratulates pro-educational choice candidates for their successes during Tuesday’s primary election.
Statement from Tommy Schultz, National Communications Director, the American Federation for Children: 
“Tuesday’s results show that voters in Missouri want excellent schools for all children and will support the men and women willing to fight for a family’s right to choose the best educational option available for their children.”
Several proponents of educational choice advanced to the General Election, including:
– Cindy O’Laughlin, Senate: Cindy is running to replace term-limited Brian Munzlinger in Northeast Missouri. Cindy grew up on a farm and now co-owns a concrete business with her husband, Richard. Cindy has also served on a local school board where she says she learned the importance of parents being in control of their children’s education. O’Laughlin is a former school board member who believes all children deserve a good education, regardless of where they live.
– Ben Baker, House: Ben is the current Mayor of Neosho. He is also a minister, a professor and owns a small construction company. Ben and his wife have four children. He is running to replace term-limited Bill Reiboldt. Baker on education: “As a professor and dean of students, I understand the importance of a good education. I will fight for excellence in education for all Missouri children.”
– Dottie Bailey, House: From Eureka, Missouri, Dottie is a mother of two young girls. Dottie has worked in the banking industry for her entire career and currently serves on the St. Louis Bankers Board of Directors. She also has a long history of grassroots activism in Saint Louis County. Bailey is hoping to replace Republican Kirk Mathews who announced his retirement from the House earlier this year.
– Dirk Deaton, House: Dirk was born and raised in the small southwest Missouri town of Noel where he recently started the Noel Betterment Association, which is a non-profit, civic group dedicated to finding solutions to community issues. Dirk is also a minister and active in his church community. Dirk is hoping to replace term-limited Republican House member Bill Lant. Deaton on education: “I attended a public college (Crowder College), public university (Missouri Southern), and graduated from a private university (Liberty University.) As a direct beneficiary, I understand the immense value of education. I also know from personal experience that there is not a one size fits all solution.”
– Mary Elizabeth Coleman, House: Mary Elizabeth has six children and lives with her husband David in South Saint Louis County. She is a member of the Arnold City Council and is an attorney. She also serves on the Arch Grants Board as well as the St. Louis Zoo Board of Directors. Mary Elizabeth will face Mike Revis, a Democrat, in the general election in November. Coleman on education: Quality schools create good citizens, stable jobs and thriving communities. I will fight to ensure every child can access a world class education in a safe environment.