VOTE David B. Shepard
for orange county School Board, district 1

Firefighter and dad committed to safer schools and real opportunities

Meet David

I’m David B. Shepard — a firefighter, paramedic, and proud father of two young children. For over 14 years, I’ve served Orange County through public safety, showing up in moments of crisis and leading with compassion, creativity, and grit. I’ve trained new paramedics, taught CPR, and earned promotions through hard work and hands-on leadership. Now, I’m stepping forward to serve in a new way: by reimagining public education for every student in our community.

I was born and raised in Northwest Ohio, and moved to Orange County in 2012 with a simple goal — to live in the community I serve. That same commitment drives my campaign today. As my son entered OCPS, I saw him struggle with school the same way I did. And I saw something else: the programs that helped me succeed — trades, life skills, hands-on learning — were disappearing. I knew it was time to step up.

I believe every student deserves a path to purpose. That means promoting trade careers and internships as aggressively as we promote college. It means restoring home economics and life skills classes that reflect today’s workforce. It means building partnerships with local industries and creating clear pathways from the classroom to real-world opportunity.

As a father, I want my children — and yours — to be exposed to entrepreneurship, public safety, skilled trades, and higher education from elementary school through graduation. I want schools that inspire, equip, and empower. I want public education to be the premier choice for families in Orange County.

If elected, I’ll prioritize:

Advocating for student safety
Career pathways from elementary school to workforce readiness
Access to trade and vocational education
Strong parent–teacher relationships that support student success

My leadership is guided by faith, family, and opportunity. I stay connected to my community through service, and I believe in lifting others forward whenever possible. Because family is where you’re irreplaceable — and our schools should reflect that same care.

“Failure is just an educational experience that didn’t go my way.”
— Joe Namath, National FFA Convention 2005

Let’s build schools that work — for every student, every future, and every dream.

an abstract photo of a curved building with a blue sky in the background

Election for OCPS is:
Tuesday, August 18th

David Shepard: Student Focused

Father. Firefighter. Advocate for Opportunity.

Career Pathways

Students should be introduced early to the many paths available after graduation. David supports clear, age-appropriate career pathways that guide students from elementary school through workforce readiness.

Student Safety

Every student deserves to feel safe and supported at school. As a firefighter and paramedic, David brings real-world experience in emergency response, prevention, and preparedness to advocate for safer schools.

Life Skills and Hands-On Learning

Students need skills they can use beyond the classroom. David supports restoring life skills and hands-on learning programs that prepare students for today’s workforce and real-world responsibilities.

Trade and Vocational Education

College is one path, but it is not the only one. David will advocate for expanded access to trade and vocational education so students can graduate with practical, in-demand skills.

Real-World Opportunity

Education should connect learning to purpose. David supports partnerships with local industries, public safety, and businesses to create real-world opportunities through internships, exposure, and mentorship.

Parent–Teacher Partnership

Strong schools are built on strong relationships. David believes parents and teachers must work together to support student success through communication, trust, and shared accountability.

VOTE David B. Shepard for orange county School Board, district 1