Four candidates are on the ballot for three seats on the Dublin City Schools Board of Education.
One incumbent board member, Tiffany deSilva, is running along with three challengers: Elizabeth McClain, Tara Seward and Kristy Venne.
Two seats on the board were vacated when board member Lindsay Gillis and board president Diana Rigby decided not to run again.
Ohio’s general election is Nov. 4, with polls open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Voters also may cast their ballots early at the Franklin County Board of Elections, 1700 Morse Road.
The information below was supplied by candidates responding to a questionnaire. The Dispatch only edited responses for length or clarity.
Tiffany deSilva
Campaign website: votetiffanydesilva.com
Key issues:
Background: Licensed social worker and certified coach. Holds a master of social work degree from Ohio State University, and bachelor of art degrees in sociology from Ohio State and in surgical technology from Central Kentucky Technical College. Currently serving her fourth year as a member of the Dublin City Schools board of education. A Licensed Social Worker, longtime district volunteer, and current Dublin City Schools parent. Served as a room parent eight times and as PTO president for five years at Davis Middle School and Scioto High School. Also served as a Dublin Education Foundation board member for over three years.
Why are you the best candidate? “I am running for reelection to the Dublin City school board because I am committed to making sure every student in our district receives a high-quality education that prepares them with the skills, knowledge and opportunities to be successful inside the classroom and beyond. DCS needs experienced and empathetic leaders who are not only passionate about serving, but who also have a deep understanding of public education, the district’s strengths and its weaknesses to help guide the way through new opportunities and challenges. I am this type of leader.
“Since 2020, DCS has faced challenges like a divided political environment, community discord, redistricting, and high turnover in administrative and school board member roles. Research shows that school districts with more stable school boards have less teacher turnover and higher student achievement.”My ability to actively listen to parents, understand student needs, build rapport in the community, and work collaboratively to solve problems is an asset to DCS. As a current DCS parent, experienced school board member, a long-time dedicated volunteer in Dublin City Schools, and a licensed Social Worker, I am connected to the issues in our community, and I understand how social issues and school policy impact our students.”
Elizabeth McClain
Campaign website: elizabethmcclain.com
Key issues:
Background: Worked at the Ohio Legislative Service Commission and Legislative Information Systems, giving firsthand knowledge of government operations and policy. Served on Dublin’s Community Services Advisory Committee (2019-2024) and advised on programs that impacted families and residents. Program manager with extensive experience in planning, budgeting and delivering results. President of Ohio Pet Charities, a nonprofit that builds partnerships, hosts community events and supports local families and pet rescues. Lifelong central Ohio resident, Dublin parent and advocate for strong schools and inclusive community services.
Why are you the best candidate? “I am running for public office because I believe in the power of community-driven solutions to create a more inclusive, compassionate and equitable society. With over two decades of experience working in both the public and private sectors, I have seen firsthand how impactful leadership, authentic relationship-building and a commitment to meaningful change can transform lives and strengthen communities. Running for office represents an opportunity to take these values to a broader stage, where I can serve as a voice for positive change, advocate for policies that benefit all members of our community, and help shape a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”
Tara Seward
Age: 42
Campaign website: tarafordublinschools.com
Key issues:
Background: Attended OSU and majored in math after attending both Dublin Scioto and Bishop Watterson. Started professional career teaching math enrichment at elementary schools in Dublin schools, as well as Wellington. Spent 15 years in finance (tax, forecasting, budgeting and accounting). Has been in systems (Oracle HCM) for the last five years for a major retailer and for a global consulting company. Within the last year, transitioned to internal IT strategy at the same global consulting company.
Why are you the best candidate? “After 41 years in Dublin and raising four kids in the Dublin City School District — two graduates now attending Boston University and the University of Cincinnati, and two currently in high school (a sophomore and a freshman) — I’ve experienced the system from many angles. From advocating for my son on a 504 plan, supporting another son with dyslexia on an IEP, to navigating the gifted program with my daughter, I’ve helped other families do the same. I believe all students deserve consistent, equitable support — regardless of building.
“I entered this race to address growing challenges with school funding. While we must advocate at the state and local level, we also need to be more creative and strategic with existing resources. As someone with a background in strategy, forecasting and data analysis, I’m ready to bring a practical, solution-driven lens to budgeting and planning.
“Community engagement is also critical. We need to meet people where they are, lean into the expertise that already exists and build a shared vision. By improving communication and trust, we can strengthen the culture of our district — from the top down — and ensure our students, educators and families continue to thrive.”
Kristy Venne
Age: 46
Campaign website: voteforvenne.com
Key issues:
Background: Attended Ohio State University and earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree in art education, plus K-12 principal and superintendent licensure. After more than 20 years as a teacher, principal and district administrator in two districts, now works as an education and workforce consultant supporting K-12 schools and industry organizations across Ohio. Serves on the DCS Business Advisory Council and the Ohio Association of Student Leaders Advisory Board. She and her husband are the parents of two high school students in Dublin City Schools.
Why are you the best candidate? “I am a lifelong educator, community connector and advocate for student success. My purpose has always been to ensure that every young person has the opportunity to thrive — in the classroom and beyond. I am running for the Dublin City Schools Board of Education to continue putting students first, empower educators and strengthen community trust.
“Serving as a public school educator since 2002, I have had the privilege of working with thousands of children, families and staff as a teacher, principal and district administrator. In 2018, I was honored to design, launch and serve as the first principal of Emerald Campus, Dublin’s innovative college and career readiness hub. I then served in various district roles leading community engagement, co-authoring the strategic plan and playing a key role in passing the last bond and operating levy.
“My campaign team is unique; it is made of nine student interns and is completely nonpartisan. We aim to build trust and relationships with the entire community. Dublin is already a strong district — I am committed to continuing its excellence and helping lead the way in preparing every student to reach their potential.”
This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Four running for three spots on Dublin City school board in Nov. 4 election
Reporting by Columbus Dispatch / The Columbus Dispatch
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