Hello, my name is Thessela White, and I’m running for Hamilton County School Board, District 5—Focused on our future leaders.

I believe every student, no matter their background, deserves a champion who will fight for their future. I am proof of what happens when a student receives a quality public education. I’m a proud graduate of Hixson High School and an example of what a quality public education can achieve. I earned my Bachelor of Arts from the University of Memphis and returned home to Chattanooga to reinvest in the community that invested so much in me. This community helped nurture me, and now I’m answering the call to serve it—with the same heart, energy, and commitment it gave me. 

I have dedicated my life to empowering young people. Currently, I serve as a mentor and ambassador for Big Brothers Big Sisters. I am a sustaining Board Member for the Chambliss Center for Children, and this is my 6th year serving as the State Chair for the NAACP’s ACT-SO program. Through these programs, I’ve seen firsthand how access, encouragement, and advocacy can change the trajectory of a student’s life. I want to bring that same transformational energy to our school board.

I am a Servant Leader who collaborates, listens, and ignites change. 

I believe in a public education system that fosters well-rounded individuals—one that prepares students for college and career, and provides a high-quality education where they feel safe, supported, and inspired to thrive.

As Your District-5 School Board Representative, I will champion to:

  • Prioritize student achievement – Championing programs that prepare students for success in college, careers, and life.

  • Support great  teachers and retain talent – Promoting work-life balance, providing compensation, and encouraging advancement 

  • Build strong school-community partnerships – Collaborations  with local organizations, businesses, and volunteers

This is personal for me. I’ve walked through the hallways of our public schools—I know the power of a strong education. I’m running to ensure every student in District 5 has that same opportunity—and more.

Let’s build stronger schools and continue to invest in our future leaders. I’m ready to serve.