Tom Long, of St. Cloud, announced Monday he was running for Osceola County School Board, district 5.

“I offer fresh leadership ready to tackle the responsibility of providing our children with a world-class education. As a long time advocate for Osceola taxpayers, I understand that we must become better stewards of your tax dollars. By seeking greater efficiencies, we can provide an overdue raise for our teachers,” Long stated in a press release.

Long, making his first bid for public office, faces incumbent John G. McKay, the current board chairman, as well as challengers Wade Davis, a former St. Cloud City Council member, and Stacy Anderson McCland.

“We can better serve the community by increasing focus on core classes and life skills. I believe we can produce the best schools in the country that will eventually bring valuable economic development and diversity,” Long stated.