Melanie Meren, Fairfax County School Board

What does it take to help guide a school system that serves more than 180,000 students and manages a $4 billion budget?

For Melanie Meren, it started with showing up.

Serving her second term on the Fairfax County School Board, Melanie represents the Hunter Mill District and helps make decisions that shape the educational experience of families across one of the largest school systems in the nation.

In this episode, Melanie shares her path from engaged parent to community advocate to elected leader. We discuss the challenges and opportunities facing public education, why schools are the bedrock of thriving communities, and how parents, students, and residents can make their voices heard.

Most of all, Melanie reminds us that strong schools don't happen by accident. They happen when communities choose to get involved.

Learn more about Melanie's work at melaniemeren.com.