Memphis-Shelby County School Board member Frank Johnson announced on Facebook that he’s officially dropping out of the District 7 school board race, citing health issues and the recent death of a family member.¶
Johnson said in the announcement that he decided to discontinue his bid for re-election to recover from a recent stroke, as well as to grieve the loss of his sister who passed away last week. Johnson, a community activist and former educator, was elected to represent District 7 in 2021, replacing longtime board member Miska Clay Bibbs, who left the board in August of that year after being elected to the commission.¶
Johnson thanked his campaign team and voters for their support thus far, adding that he “will be back better than ever” sometime in the future. He did not further clarify his plans moving forward, however.¶
“My service on the Memphis and Shelby County School Board has been part of a long and continuing journey of advocacy for the people of Memphis and Shelby County. While my commitment to serve on behalf of the citizens of this great city is unchanged; after much consideration, I have decided to discontinue my bid for re-election to the District 7 School Board seat,” he said in his post.¶
“Going through such a difficult health journey has taught me to listen to my body. Losing my sister has taught me to listen to my heart. With your support, I am taking these steps to heal both so that I may return to serve the people of Memphis with all the vigor, strength and passion you deserve.”¶
Johnson's decision leaves four candidates running for the District 7 seat including community leader Chavez Donelson, educator and community advocate Danielle Huggins, longtime educator and founder of Project Let's Read Towanna C. Murphy, and Respect the Haven Community Development Corporation Executive Director Jason Sharif.¶
