john merrill

Campaigned to create upward mobility in Baltimore, primarily by ensuring that every student goes to an excellent school. Team knocked on over 50,000 doors and earned nearly 40% of the vote in competitive primary. Campaign was endorsed by the Baltimore Sun, dozens of community leaders, elected officials, and labor unions. Received over 1200 individual contributions, totaling over $220,000.

Instructed over 350 students in three years as a classroom teacher. Taught ninth grade IB MYP Individuals and Societies and 10th grade IB MYP U.S. History. Received the highly effective designation, the highest professional rating possible. Led effort that raised over $2.2 million to build new 13,000 square foot library. One year after the new library opened student achievement on the IB Extended Essay, a rigorous independent college-level research project, increased by 158%. Coached and facilitated prospective families through the high school choice process, planned and executed prospective student days, open house days, and led middle school outreach program. Visited over 50 middle schools during the 2015-2016 school year.

Supported the Chief of Staff in monitoring and managing the day-to-day operation and coordination of activities and services for $1.2 billion organization with over 80,000 students and 10,000 employees. Represented the Chief of Staff and served as liaison with all departments on matters relating to administration, management, operations, and strategic planning. Coordinated special projects including the development of a research-based and comprehensive vision for system-wide improvement in Baltimore City Public Schools titled, Building a Generation: City Schools Blueprint for Success; a grassroots enrollment campaign with the Baltimore Teachers Union and City of Baltimore; building renovations and transformations with the Heart of America Foundation; and student athlete development with Under Armour, the InSideOut Initiative, and the Fund for Educational Excellence.