Q&A: Camden Bedinghaus, Manatee County School Board District 5 Candidate

• What sets you apart from the other candidates seeking this post?

I bring a combination of youth, recent experience as a student, professional experience in journalism, and a strong drive to get things done. At 23, I would bring a perspective from a generation that has recently experienced the public education system firsthand. My work as a journalist has also taught me to ask tough questions, research issues, communicate clearly, and hold people accountable. Most importantly, I am running with a clear focus on putting students first and making sure our schools prepare them for both academic and real-world success.

• What issues do you intend to address during your campaign?

My campaign is focused on three priorities that I call the CAM Plan: Common-sense Academics, Accountability & Transparency, and Mastery of Real-world Skills.

First, I want to address the literacy crisis by strengthening early reading intervention and ensuring students are making meaningful progress. Second, I want greater transparency and accountability in how our schools use taxpayer dollars, select vendors, and measure student outcomes. Finally, I want schools to do more to prepare students for life after graduation through financial literacy, career preparation, AI literacy and safety, and practical skills such as cooking and household responsibilities.

• What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

I graduated Cum Laude from the University of South Florida with a degree in Economics while building experience in journalism and public service. I served as a USF Campus Council Representative, where I represented fellow students and gained experience in advocacy and student government. As a journalist, I have interviewed elected officials, candidates, and community leaders while covering political and civic issues. My professional experience has required me to communicate with people from different backgrounds, work independently, meet deadlines, and ask difficult questions. These experiences have prepared me to listen, analyze information, communicate effectively, and advocate for the people I represent.

• What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." — Joshua 1:9

That verse reminds me that doing what is right will not always be easy, but we should not allow fear to keep us from doing what we are called to do. It has encouraged me to step forward, take responsibility, and stand for what I believe is right, even when it is difficult.

• Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I am not running simply because I am young. I am running because I believe my generation deserves a voice in the decisions shaping our schools and our future. I want to bring a fresh perspective while respecting the experience of the teachers, parents, administrators, and community members who have invested in Manatee County Schools for years.

I believe strongly in academic excellence, parental involvement, fiscal responsibility, and preparing students for the real world. Most importantly, I believe every decision made by the School Board should ultimately be measured by one question: Does this help our students succeed?