HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Those involved with the Family Community Theatre in Hutchinson may know the name.

Ben Jones of Sterling is seeking the District 7 position with the Kansas Board of Education being vacated by Ken Willard, who is not running for re-election.

Jones is calling his campaign a Crusade for Kansas Kids regardless of who they are and where they’re located. He says he’s a firm believer in fairness and equality and will fight for kids in urban areas just as hard as for rural students.

He believes the focus should be placed on innovating schools. Jones says the community must re-imagine education in a 21st Century context. Jones wants to provide Career Connected Learning opportunities so graduates become the most sought-after candidates for business, industry, colleges, and universities. He wants to encourage those in building trades to start businesses so communities may thrive.

Jones studied Music Education at Hutchinson Community College and Sterling College and currently works as a transportation contractor and musician. He operates his own vocal studio and serves as the Vice President of the Rice County Historical Society and member of the board of directors for the Family Community Theatre in Hutchinson.