Yanelle Powell, who ran unopposed in the most recent election for Milford School District Board of Education, was sworn in on July 7. Powell will replace Jean Wylie who chose not to run for another term. The swearing in was held during the annual board reorganization meeting.
After Powell was sworn in, Scott Fitzgerald was elected president of the board and Matt Bucher elected vice-president. Powell volunteered to be the DSBA Executive Committee Representative with Fitzgerald named as an alternate. Bucher was named as the DSBA Legislative Committee with Ashlee Connell named an alternate.
Born and raised in Milford, Powell grew up near the historic Vineyard Shipyard and attended Benjamin Banneker Elementary School. Prior to her appointment on the board, Powell recalled her first day of kindergarten.
“My mom and I took Pete’s Cab from Columbia Street to Banneker,” she recalled. “I was wearing pink shorts and a white tank top with the words “Fresh as a Daisy” in pink letters with a daisy in the middle. I remember the anxiety I felt when my mom let go of my hand.”
Powell attended Milford schools until going to Sussex Tech for high school. She decided to run for school board to focus on early intervention, family and community engagement and creating a supportive environment for students, staff and family.
“My experience in public health, policy and leadership has prepared me to address literacy challenges and ensure equitable access to resources,” Powell said. “We need to focus on education, not on the never-ending social qualms and politics. I also bring a unique skill set to the board and am committed to open, honest conversations, supporting our educators and partnering with families to ensure every student can thrive.”
Powell holds an undergraduate degree in marketing and is currently pursuing a dual master’s degree in business with a minor in healthcare management as well as a bachelor’s in law, policy and political science in order to prepare for law school. She is an active volunteer with the Milford Museum and Landmarks Commission, Milford Senior Center, Rotary Club of Milford and the Milford Public Library.
“My goals on school board are to strengthen family and community engagement, support early intervention and literacy programs and ensure all students have access to the resources they need to succeed,” Powell said. “I will focus on the unique aspects of our district and create supportive, inclusion learning environments. By working closely with educators, families and the community, we can help every student thrive academically, socially and emotionally.”
