Micah Chapman

Micah Chapman is a Democratic candidate running for election to the Hamilton County Board of Education to represent District 5 in Tennessee [1]. He is competing against Thessela White in the Democratic primary scheduled for May 5, 2026 [1]. The district covers the Brainerd and Tyner areas [6]. Chapman resides in Washington Hills and is a lifelong Chattanooga resident [6].

Chapman works as the Director of Events and Outreach at The Enterprise Center, where he focuses on digital equity and community engagement [1]. He also serves as the executive pastor of Word Empowerment Church [6]. Professionally, he is a Tennessee-certified public manager and is currently pursuing a doctorate in organizational leadership [6].

His community service includes serving on the Head Start Governing Board, where he provides oversight for early childhood education programs [1]. He has held various leadership roles, including President of the Urban League of Greater Chattanooga Young Professionals, Board Chair for the City of Chattanooga Office of Family Empowerment, and Chair of the Washington Hills Community Advisory Committee [1]. Additionally, Chapman mentors young people through Project Ready and TN Achieves [1].

Chapman is a father of two daughters who attend Hamilton County schools [6]. He launched his campaign on a platform of "collaboration over control," emphasizing transparency, educator support, and trauma-informed school practices [8]. His policy framework, referred to as the "5T Plan," prioritizes transparency and accountability, support for educators through competitive pay and advisory councils, trauma-informed success via mental health resources, community togetherness, and preparing students for future careers [8].

Chapman has completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey for the 2026 election [1]. He participated in a panel discussion hosted by the JFK Luncheon Club alongside other Democratic candidates for the Hamilton County school board [7]. The winner of the Democratic primary is expected to win the general seat, as no Republican or independent candidates have filed to run against him [6].

Sources

• [1] Micah Chapman
• [2] Tennessee elections, 2026 - Ballotpedia
• [4] Candidate Lists | Tennessee Secretary of State
• [5] 2026 Election United States Senate - Tennessee - FEC.gov
• [6] School board: Micah Chapman plans to focus on teacher support, trauma-informed schools | Chattanooga Times Free Press
• [7] Democratic candidates for Hamilton County school board talk teacher retention, community involvement | Chattanooga Times Free Press
• [8] Micah Chapman Announces Run For Hamilton County School Board - Chattanoogan.com
• [9] Why I Support Micah Chapman’s Vision For Stronger Schools In District 5 - Chattanoogan.com
• [10] School board: Thessela White hopes to support teachers, strengthen community partnerships | Chattanooga Times Free Press
• [11] Times Opinion: Thessela White is the right choice for school board in District 5 | Chattanooga Times Free Press
• [12] 15 candidates vying for five Hamilton County school board seats | Chattanooga Times Free Press