Elect Todd Austin Martin
Franklin County School Board
Member at Large
A Passionate Advocate for Promoting Children and Their Opportunities for a Better Future
As a candidate for the Franklin County School Board, I am committed to bringing positive change and progress to our education system. With a background in community engagement and advocacy, I aim to ensure that every student in our county has access to quality education and resources. My dedication to serving the community drives my passion for this role, and I am eager to work collaboratively with parents, educators, and stakeholders to create a brighter future for our students.
Why Vote for Todd?
I'm committed to transparency, accountability, and student-centered policies. My experience in education and community service positions me as the ideal candidate to represent the interests of Franklin County students, parents, and educators.
Education Advocacy
I'm really passionate about advocating for policies that put student success and well-being first. It's concerning to see that the U.S. education system has dropped from its previous top ranking. Back in 2015, the U.S. was 38th in math and 24th in science out of 71 countries, according to the Pew Research Center. Moreover, the National Literacy Institute reveals that "40% of U.S. students struggle to read at a basic level." We really need to refocus on the educational methods that we know are effective. To achieve success, we should return to what has worked in the past. It's essential for Franklin County students to have strong skills in reading, writing, math, and science.
Parental Involvement
According to Virginia State Code 1-240-1 regarding Parents' Rights, "A parent has a fundamental right to make decisions concerning the upbringing, education, and care of their child." Parents should feel empowered to voice their concerns about the education system, which they support financially, without the worry of being silenced or overlooked. It’s essential for Franklin County School Board to uphold a policy of full partnership and open communication with parents, ensuring they are included in all social and educational matters related to their children.
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Every parent has the right to choose the school or learning environment that best fits their child, be it a public school, a private institution, or homeschooling. It’s essential that the taxpayer funds allocated for education follow the child, helping to cover the expenses for their education. Competition for those funds can only improve the quality of public education.
Fiscal Transparency & Accountability
Franklin County taxpayers are hardworking individuals, and they truly deserve a dedicated advocate for fiscal responsibility, transparency, and accountability. I’m committed to applying the same approach I used while managing a $22 million VDOT annual budget to the school board budget. This means evaluating priorities, ensuring cost efficiency, cutting out waste, and negotiating approvals for my proposals with my management. I will thoroughly review the school board budget, pinpoint potential cost savings and efficiency improvements, and present a transparent budget to those I serve—the taxpayers of Franklin County.
Transparency & Accountability to Parents and Citizens
I believe in keeping everything transparent and accountable when it comes to the decisions made by the school board. My goal is to make sure the Franklin County School Board functions with integrity and is open with the residents of Franklin County. Parents of children in public schools have a constitutional right to know and access all teaching materials used. I will stand up for parents to have full access to all school curricula.
In addition,I strongly believe in the importance of safeguarding our children's innocence, and I’m committed to working hard to have any inappropriate books taken out of our school libraries. If I'm given the opportunity to be on the school board, I will strongly voice my concerns and vote against anyone bringing pornographic content into our school libraries or curriculum.
Equitable Resource Allocation
I am dedicated to advocating for fair and equitable distribution of resources across all schools in Franklin County. Every student deserves access to high-quality education and opportunities.
Parent & Teacher Collaboration
I value the input of parents and educators in shaping educational policies. I am committed to fostering meaningful collaboration and dialogue to address the needs of the school community.
Together we can improve education in Franklin County
Todd is an inspiring leader known for his forward-thinking approach and ability to build strong teams. He is dedicated to tirelessly advocating for parents' rights and values on our local School Board. Todd's passion for academic excellence and community involvement truly sets him apart. His aim is to ensure that the right tools are available for every child to unlock their full potential in education and prepare for their future. Join us in supporting Todd Austin Martin in his mission for educational excellence for the students of Franklin County. He would be honored to have your vote in the upcoming election on November 4th!
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Endorsements from Community Leaders and Educators
Principled, Conservative Voice
As my time on the School Board comes to a close, I want to take a moment to share my wholehearted support for Todd Martin. Having served our community, I know firsthand the challenges and responsibilities this role demands—and I can say without hesitation that Todd is exactly the kind of leader our schools need.
He is a principled, conservative voice who believes in strong families and the essential role parents play in their children’s education. He will work tirelessly to ensure that parents are not just informed, but actively involved in shaping the policies and decisions that impact our students’ futures.
I have every confidence that Todd will approach this position with integrity, common sense, and a deep respect for the values that make our community strong. I encourage you to join me in supporting Todd Martin for School Board.
Dr M Kevin David
Sitting School Board Member at Large
Leader & Man of Integrity
Todd Austin Martin is a proven leader with 21 years of distinguished U.S. Navy service, retiring as a Surface Ordnance Warrant Officer, and recognized as the #1 ranked Chief for three consecutive years. His leadership extended to managing a $22M annual budget at VDOT, where he twice earned the Commissioner’s Award. A 25-year Franklin County resident with his wife Cindy, Todd has faithfully served over 20 years in Children’s Ministry; and, has served as a youth sports coach in Franklin County. He is committed to strengthening reading, writing, math, and science skills while ensuring parents remain full partners in their child’s education. Vote Todd Austin Martin—Leadership, Integrity, Transparency. He has my complete endorsement and support.
Donna Cosmato
Former Franklin County School Board Representative, Boone District; Former Franklin County Electoral Board Member
Man of Integrity
I’m proud to endorse Todd Martin for Franklin County school board. I had the pleasure of working alongside Todd for many years and saw firsthand his integrity, forward-thinking approach, and genuine commitment to making a difference. He consistently goes above and beyond, never settling for “good enough” when it comes to doing what’s right. His leadership is grounded in compassion and sincerity, qualities that are essential for guiding schools and supporting students. Todd will be a strong, principled voice on the board and a thoughtful advocate for the community.
Dan Taylor
Traffic Operations, Virginia Department of Transportation
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Join me in achieving Academic Excellence for Every Child
