The Charleston chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America has announced its endorsement of Francis Beylotte for the Charleston County School District Board of Trustees District 7 seat.
According to the organization, the endorsement marks the first time a DSA chapter has endorsed a candidate in South Carolina.
“Francis Beylotte is the only candidate for this seat with both a bachelor’s in psychology and a master’s in developmental psychology, giving him a clear understanding of our children’s developmental needs,” said Tanner Boggs, Electoral Committee chair for Charleston DSA. “He’s a longtime cadre member, he has spent years fighting for better schools, served on the CCSD Health Advisory Committee, and helped bring the district its first evidence-based, medically accurate health curriculum. Francis also understands what happens when public money is siphoned from our schools. He has stood against TIF and FILOT giveaways that divert millions from CCSD students into the hands of billionaires, developers and war profiteers. Charleston DSA will continue to endorse and elect socialists like Francis who fight for our children, our workers and our rights.”
Beylotte allows data to drive decisions and puts people first, according to the organization.
“Charleston DSA is proud to endorse Francis for School Board,” said Max Sorgenfrey, co-chair of Charleston DSA. “Our members’ excitement for Francis is matched by voters when we’re talking with them at their door. People want change, and Charleston DSA and Francis are here to deliver.”
Francis Marion Beylotte III, who was born and raised in Charleston, believes public schools are the foundations of their communities and should be places where every child can find the support needed to thrive, not just academically, but in every facet of their young lives.
Beylotte has spent his career working in clinical research and mental health practices, experience he says has given him the tools necessary to address the complex issues he would face if elected.
His years of advocacy include support for students, teachers and families across Charleston County. As a father of two, Beylotte said he was inspired to run for a seat on the Charleston County School Board and has pledged to be a board member who is transparent, accountable and focused on student-centered leadership. His campaign says his focus will remain on supporting educators and students, as well as the critical relationship between communities and their schools.
Get involved with Charleston DSA’s grassroots efforts to elect Francis at https://www.charlestondsa.org/