My name is Travis Akers and I am running for Duval County Public School Board District 7.

I am a proud dad of two Duval County public school students - The only candidate in this election who is an actual parent of public school children. I am married to my beautiful wife, Anna, who I met right here in Jacksonville in 2007. I hold a Masters in Public Administration from Villanova University and B.A. in Organizational Management. I also studied education at Southeastern Seminary at Wake Forest before joining the Navy immediately after 9/11 (my student teaching semester). I have had the honor of serving our great nation as a U.S. Navy Intelligence Officer and combat aircrewman for 20 years, defending our country. But now, I am seeking to serve my local community and neighbors and defend our children as a member of your school board.

I have been intimately involved with our local schools as a volunteer, tutor, member of the School Advisory Council (SAC), PTA, and yes, even the “Cougar” mascot for Greenland Pines Elementary School in Mandarin, where my wife also serves as the PTA Vice-President and SAC Secretary.

I am an active member of Deermeadows Baptist Church, where I have the privilege of serving as a children’s ministry leader and member of the personnel committee. I also currently serve on the Mayor’s Military and Veterans Affairs Transition Committee, Urban League Veterans and Community Advisory Board, coach youth soccer for Florida Elite, am a national ambassador for The Laundry Project, and leadership committee member for the Villanova Alumni Association - Northeast Florida Chapter.

I have a heart and passion for children, and I deeply value public education and our teachers. I believe public dollars belong in public schools. I firmly believe it’s time to kick politics out of the classroom and to bring back the basics of learning and ensuring our children have a safe and welcoming place to grow and flourish. And after speaking with so many of you, I know that you agree.

I am asking for your support. Your investment in my campaign is an investment in our children and future. This campaign is fueled by grassroots donors… not corporations, not big business, but individuals who truly care, like you. That’s why I need you on my team.

I have a bold vision for our schools and I believe that you and I can achieve it together!