He lives in the Princeton Lakes neighborhood with his wife, Breonna, and their two sons, Jayden and Jayce. Jonathan’s commitment to public education runs deep, shaped by his own experience as a former APS teacher and by the daily realities he sees as a parent raising children in this district. His decision to run is grounded in a belief that every child deserves a quality seat and every community deserves schools that reflect their full potential.

Jonathan began his career as an elementary school teacher at EL Connally in APS, where he taught with urgency, love, and a deep belief in the brilliance of all children. Since then, he has served in education leadership roles across the country, helping schools and nonprofits build stronger systems for learning and equity. He has led national initiatives focused on culturally responsive leadership, supported family engagement strategies, and helped direct philanthropic investments toward community-driven solutions. Jonathan earned his doctorate in Education Policy and Leadership from American University and holds degrees from Georgia State and Syracuse University. Today, he serves as the elected parent representative on the D.M. Therrell GO Team and sits on the APS Facilities Planning Stakeholder Committee, where he helps shape policy and advocate for neighborhood schools.

His campaign, All In for Every Child, is rooted in the belief that a better APS is possible, but only if we lead with courage and clarity. Jonathan’s platform focuses on early literacy and math proficiency, expanding college and career pathways, strengthening student safety and mental health supports, and ensuring teachers have the tools, training, and compensation to thrive. He knows firsthand what it takes to turn vision into action, and he is committed to building a school system that prepares every child for life, not just a test.

This campaign is about more than a seat on the board. It’s about showing up for communities and building a movement for equity, excellence, and shared accountability. Jonathan is asking neighbors, parents, educators, and community members to be part of that movement by showing up, donating, volunteering, and speaking out for what our children deserve. 

Jonathan Leon is not a career politician. He’s an APS parent, a former APS teacher, and someone who has lived the promise of public education. He is running because he believes in Atlanta’s children, and he knows that with the right leadership, our schools can become the foundation of a stronger, safer, more just city. Now is the time to act, and with your support, we can go all in for every child.