Democrat Tim Wood, an advocate for those with disabilities, has announced his candidacy for the 45th House District, which includes northwest Douglas County.

The position is currently held by state Rep. Tom Sloan, R-Lawrence, who is seeking re-election to an 11th term.

Wood, of Lawrence, said he is running to make sure Kansas has a top-quality education system.

“Kansans value strong schools and believe our Kansas children all deserve a first-rate education,” he said.

Wood has worked for the Disability Rights Center of Kansas for the past four years as the campaign manager for the agency’s End the Wait project, which sought to eliminate waiting lists those with disabilities who were seeking state services.

Sloan faces Jeremy Ryan Pierce, of Lawrence, in the August GOP primary.