Ethan Ashley, CEO and co-founder of School Board Partners, announced the recognition during the Covington Board of Education this week that two of the board’s members have been named finalists for the organization’s board member of the year.
“At School Board Partners, we oftentimes talk about the fact that the best school board members understand that they’re not simply elected officials,” Ashley said. “They are trustees of their communities, of their community values, their hopes, but most importantly, their community’s children.”
Ashley recognized Edelen for bringing moral clarity, courage, and a deep commitment to students into her work. He praised her willingness to ask difficult questions, embrace accountability, and step into challenging conversations when she believes students need someone to speak up.
“There is this quote that says the credit belongs to the person who actually is in the arena, the person willing to risk criticism, be misunderstood, the person willing to stand up, speak out, and keep showing up anyway,” Ashley said. “Hannah, you’re that person. You’re that type of leader.”
Ashley praised Edelen’s willingness to confront difficult issues and advocate for students, even when doing so is not politically convenient.
“When people need someone to speak up, you speak up,” Ashley said. “When difficult conversations need to happen, you have them, and when accountability is required, you embrace it.”
Edelen has brought experience as an educator, advocate, and community leader to the board. She has been a strong voice for early literacy and student opportunity, including serving as a visible advocate and volunteer for Read Ready Covington. Throughout her service, she has pushed for a district culture that is student-centered, accountable, and unafraid to confront difficult issues.
Ashley also recognized Simpson as a leader who approaches governance through a clear equity lens and remains focused on what is best for students. He praised Simpson’s commitment to listening to parents, students, educators, community members, and people who may not always agree with him.
“Kareem is a trustee of the community,” Ashley said. “That’s exactly how he approaches the work.”
Ashley said Simpson believes leadership begins with listening but also understands that listening must lead to action.
“Kareem believes that leadership begins with listening: listening to parents, listening to students, listening to educators, and certainly listening to our community,” Ashley said.
Since joining the board, Simpson has championed partnerships and opportunities that support students both inside and outside the classroom. His service includes co-chairing the joint Covington City-Schools Recreation Committee and advocating for stronger youth recreation, student supports, family engagement, and equitable access to opportunity.
“He leads with humility, purpose, and with a deep belief in the power of public education and its ability to transform lives,” Ashley said.
“To have Hannah and Kareem both selected as national finalists is an extraordinary recognition for them, for this board, and for the Covington community,” said Board Chair Tom Haggard. “They bring different strengths and perspectives to the work, but they share a deep commitment to our students and a willingness to lead with courage. I could not be prouder to serve alongside them.”
The School Board Member of the Year will be selected during School Board Partners’ 2026 Our Collective Power conference, scheduled for November 13 -15 in Atlanta, Georgia. ‘Our Collective Power’ brings together school board members and education leaders from across the country for professional development, practical governance training, and opportunities to build relationships with fellow public education leaders.
School Board Partners is a national organization founded by former school board members to provide elected board members with training, mentorship, practical tools, and a community of peers committed to student-centered governance.
Edelen and Simpson were elected to the Covington Board of Education in 2022 and are
completing their first terms.
Covington School Board