I believe that leaders don't happen by chance.  They have to be taught to lead and then be given the opportunities by nurturing teachers.  I believe that schools should continue to offer as many of those needed leadership opportunities as possible through various activities, such as classroom assignments and projects, cooperative learning groups, character education, sports, clubs and student government, because these activities are necessary to help grow our young people into tomorrow's leaders.

As a member of the board, I will encourage programs that promote reading and high academic achievement, keeping in mind that education is not "one size fits all."  Moving from Common Core to a more sensible approach to teaching is an integral part of this process. Since reading comprehension is necessary for students to succeed in all areas of learning, it is essential to ensure that these skills are developed at an early age. Continuing to look for innovative ways to help students develop a passion for learning is essential, such as our Career and Technical Education Programs, and our  IHE (instituitons of Higher Education) parternships.  Included in these are our alliance with Johnston Community College at SSS where students will be able to earn college credit in a technical field, and our alliance with Mount Olive College where students at South Johnston will be able to earn college credit in the agricultural field.

 I believe we have great teachers in Johnston County and that we need to retain the teaching talent we have in our schools and equip them to do their job.  I will encourage open communication with teachers and administrators to understand their needs and concerns.

I have business experience with balancing budgets, as well as great problem solving abilities, which will be key in ensuring that funds in the school board budgets are allocated in the best way possible to meet the needs of the schools without adding additional tax burdens to the community.  I also believe that maintaining community schools plays an important role, not just in the lives of the families, but in the budget, as additional busing would increase costs in fuel and maintenance.  It will be essential to work with county commissioners to plan ahead for new schools, as the population continues to boom in our county.

I humbly ask for one of your four votes for Board of Education, so that I can do my part to help grow tomorrow's leaders today, while meeting the needs of the schools and teachers and staying fiscally sound.  Thank you for your consideration.