Patrick has personal experience as a student and as a parent in Baton Rouge. Currently, his 9-year-old daughter is attending a local public charter school. His son graduated through the Baton Rouge Catholic school system. As a child, Patrick attended Walnut Hills Elementary (now the BR Center for Visual and Performing Arts), the former Valley Park Middle, Glasgow Middle Magnet, and Liberty High. Patrick is deeply rooted in Baton Rouge and sees the value of investing in our city’s future. Patrick has a listening ear and a proactive attitude. For years we have heard complaint after complaint from students, parents, and teachers. Students aren’t achieving at the levels of our neighboring communities, parents are discouraged by administrative bureaucracy, and teachers want a supportive work environment. We need to heed their concerns. Patrick will listen, ask the tough questions, evaluate the solutions, and implement the best policy. Baton Rouge is at a turning point; if we do not spend the time and energy on improving our school system now, the problems that have plagued our city for generations will continue to plague the generations to come. Now is the time for new leadership. Patrick Martin is that leader! With his proven leadership, personal experience, and proactive vision, academic achievement for all children in Baton Rouge will become a reality.