A NOTE FROM SHAYLA OWODUNNI
Hi there! I am so thrilled you've taken the time to come learn more about me and my campaign! As a dedicated advocate for educational excellence and community engagement, I am passionate about planting seeds of change within Minneapolis Public Schools. Last August, I saw a flyer on my sister's dining table calling for early learning volunteers, and quite unexpectedly, here we are today.
From serving in the classroom I was immediately made aware that we have the most innovative, creative, quick, and personable students and educators in our district - fully capable of academic excellence. I also learned that 'everyday' community members (like me) can help cultivate an environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive and bloom. If you have any questions along the way, please do not hesitate to reach out. I'm in this field for the long haul! Together, I firmly believe we can make a lasting difference for the futures of our Minneapolis children.
Forever rooting for MPS,
Shayla
GROW WITH SHAYLA
Advocate for Educational Excellence
Shayla Owodunni is a Minnesota native with a deep commitment to educational excellence and community engagement. With expertise in early learning, corporate finance, and IT governance, risk, and compliance (IT GRC), Shayla brings a unique and multifaceted perspective to her candidacy for the Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS) School Board Member At-Large position. She is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students, regardless of background or circumstance.
Educational & Professional Background
Shayla is a proud graduate of the University of Minnesota Carlson School of Management, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Business (BSB) with a focus in Accounting and Entrepreneurial Management. She currently serves as a Carlson School of Management Alumni Board Member and Chair of the Carlson 360 Network Affinity Group for alumni of color, leading efforts to advance inclusivity and support diversity initiatives within the Carlson School community.
Shayla is also a trained children's etiquette instructor and the founder of Social Heirlooms, a business that provides modern etiquette education. Her entrepreneurial spirit extends to her flora-inspired lifestyle blog turned biophilic design business, The Plant Penthouse, and her management consulting firm, Corporate Carpentry Consulting, which focuses on IT GRC and program management. These ventures highlight her innovative approach and dedication to creating positive change in various fields.
Beyond her professional journey, Shayla is actively involved in community engagement. She volunteers with the Hennepin County Master Gardener program and is trained in Children's Garden in Residency programming, further nurturing her love for growth and development.
A LIFE DEFINED BY PURPOSE
Passion for Education
Shayla's commitment to education is both professional and personal. As an Early Learning Corps volunteer, she has witnessed firsthand the challenges and triumphs of students and educators. Her passion for literacy led her to create a YouTube channel, "Ms Shayla Reads," aimed at inspiring a continuous love for literacy among children.
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​Shayla's vision for Minneapolis Public Schools is rooted in academic achievement, community collaboration, and financial integrity. Her platform is designed to address the urgent needs of the district while fostering an environment where every student can flourish.