As an educator in Springfield, it felt as though our world was falling in around us in the early months of 2026. A series of decisions made by district leaders were not adequately checked by the school board, and the result was the unimaginable decision to massively cut teaching positions in the middle of the school year. As this school year has begun, I’ve been heartened by the Springfield School Board’s renewed commitment to provide oversight, not simply a rubber stamp.

As teachers were dealing with the ramifications of the failure of administration and the elected officials who were supposed to keep them in check, we got more bad news. The Springfield City Council was moving to defund the library. These cuts specifically hit the teen program, one last bastion of a safe third space for teens to go in this town. To educators, this was another sign that some members of Team Springfield did not have in mind what was best for the people of Springfield.

To many, this is when Callee Ackland proved herself as a leader, a fighter and an advocate for the average Springfield resident. Unlike many who find themselves in volunteer positions on boards and councils, Ackland has a vision for Springfield that tackles issues that have been too long ignored. 

Along with newer issues like keeping data centers from sucking up our electricity and protecting our privacy by ensuring AI-enabled cameras aren’t watching your every move, Ackland wants to do the timeless basics of good governance. 

Ensuring renters can afford to rent decent livable spaces, filling potholes and paving roads, and ensuring city resources go to programs that help the average Springfield resident; these are what a member of the City Council needs to be focused on.

I am looking forward to seeing what Callee Ackland can do for Springfield once she’s on the council.

Brandon Ferguson
President, Springfield Education Association