Jasmine Coaston: Working Across our Community
Jasmine Coaston
Class 1, Lead
What is your Vision for Impact Statement?
My goal is to work across all lines of difference to build relationships in order to create an eco-system of success for students and families.
I am all about working across lines of difference. I’m a natural connector and I live in the big picture so I believe my vision for impact is still very much applicable to me and my work. The ecosystem is so much bigger than just the schoolhouse and it’s important for us to do our work on all levels.
You are involved in everything! Tell us a little bit about what you do.
Currently, I serve as VP of Government and Community Relations at Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio. I lead our voter rights, education equity, and policy work. In addition to that, I serve on the boards of Planned Parenthood SW Ohio, Our Daily Bread, and Crescent Ridge Academy. I am also a Precinct Executive in Ward 8, and co-founder of the Black Girl Magic Happy Hours. And, I am also raising two amazing humans, so life is pretty busy.
How did your involvement with School Board School impact your involvement in this work?
School Board School reignited my passion for work in my community. I was in a pretty stagnant place, but the program allowed me to have conversations and meet people who reminded me how much I loved my city, youth, and being an advocate. It was a really transformative experience in more ways than one.
How have you used your School Board School training/ learnings in your work?
In our education equity work, we go over the role of the board vs. the role of the administration often.
I also really value the way School Board School expanded my network and allowed me to build relationships that I value today.
You were just honored in Paloozanoire's Black & Brown Faces Exhibit. Congrats! What does this mean to you?
This one is still surreal. To be seen and valued by my peers is truly a humbling experience. To have the opportunity to be a muse for a Black woman artist, and to have her incorporate me and my kids in an art piece that lives in the Cincinnati Art Museum, isn't even something I could have dreamt of… It is a beautiful feeling for sure. I am still processing it to be honest.
What do you love about the work you do?
I love that I get to look at everything from an equity lens. We get to center the lives and experiences of Black people and that feels good.
How can the School Board School community support you in this work?
Wow. I feel so supported by my School Board School family all the time. The specific work we are doing with education equity is something I would love to have more people join. Let’s have coffee and talk about the role that folks may want to play, if they are interested.
What advice do you have for other School Board School members as they look to get involved or for new roles?
My advice is to be open to the way your passions may unfold. Not being tied to one outcome allows for imagination and innovation. There are so many ways to do great things for students and their families; be open to all of them.
Is there anything else you want to highlight?
Thanks so much for the opportunity. I love my School Board School family!