Storm Files for School Board

Storm retires from Legislature, pursues new role in public service

Today, Rep. Sue Storm, D-Overland Park, filed with the Secretary of State for election to the State Board of Education, representing the second district. In January Storm will retire from her current position as State Representative of the 22nd House District.

"Children and educators lose more from ideological division in Topeka than anyone else," said Storm. "All of Kansas' hopes for growth are tied to education- it is the best possible investment in our future. Kansas kids can no longer afford the continued political struggles within the State Board."

Since 1997, Storm has represented the 22nd district of the House of Representatives, which covers portions of northern Overland Park. Throughout her tenure in the Legislature, Storm has worked across party lines to advance educational initiatives. As the ranking minority member of the House Education Committee, she consistently fought to protect school budgets and all students regardless of need. Storm also served on the 2010 Commission, which is tasked with maintaining adequate and equitable funding for the state's public schools.

"Sue has always acted in the best interest of Kansas kids, both as an educator and as a state legislator," said Governor Kathleen Sebelius. "Her experience has been critical to establishing a long-term vision for our schools."

Storm holds a master's degree in special education from the University of Kansas. She received her bachelor's degree in English from William Jewell College. Prior to her service in the Legislature, Storm worked as a secondary education teacher for over 30 years, mostly in Shawnee Mission. She specialized both in English and special education.

"To foster our students' competition in a global economy, we must focus on the issues that hinder our students in reaching their full potential," said Storm. "Teacher retention and recruitment, math and science education and an increased commitment to early childhood education will be critical to student success in future years."

The Kansas Board of Education's second district covers portions of Wyandotte and Johnson counties. This includes all of Shawnee Mission, as well as portions of Turner, Blue Valley, DeSoto and Olathe school districts.