Position/philosophy statement
I believe every child deserves a safe and quality education I will always put the student’s best interest in every decision I make.
Current Occupation
Board Member Buncombe County Board of Education
Age (optional)
67
Campaign Phone
8282733001
My experience reflects a lifelong commitment to serving schools and our community. I currently serve as a District 6 Board Member for Buncombe County Schools, as well as a board member of the Buncombe County Schools Foundation and the Mountain Child Advocacy Center. I am also an Associate Member of the Children’s Wellbeing League. My dedication to education began as a volunteer and continued through leadership roles as a PTO President, advisory council, and booster club member. Professionally, I retired after a 40-year career in banking, where I served as a Senior Vice President with First Union, Wachovia, and Wells Fargo. After retirement, I was a substitute teacher. These experiences have provided me with a broad perspective on education.
As a District 6 Board Member for Buncombe County Schools, I have the privilege and responsibility of representing students, families, educators, and our community in decisions that shape the future of our schools. My role includes listening to the concerns and ideas of families and educators, reviewing and making informed decisions on policies and budgets, advocating for student achievement and wellbeing, and working collaboratively with fellow board members and school leadership. I believe effective school board service requires thoughtful leadership, accountability, open communication, and a strong commitment to ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed.
One of my greatest priorities as a school board member is making sure we address the critical needs of our students, particularly mental health and the growing needs of our Exceptional Children. Our students cannot learn and thrive if they do not have the emotional and mental-health support they need. I believe we must continue to strengthen access to school counselors, social workers, psychologists, behavioral specialists, and community-based mental-health resources so that students can receive help before challenges become crises. Buncombe County Schools already recognizes the important role these professionals play in supporting students and families. Advocating for state and federal funding continues to be a priority of mine.
Recruiting and retaining exceptional teachers and staff must remain a priority for Buncombe County Schools. We need to be intentional about attracting a diverse pool of talented candidates who bring different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives and who reflect the students and communities we serve. At the same time, we must create an environment where educators and staff want to stay by providing competitive compensation, strong professional development, supportive leadership and a culture in which their contributions are valued. By listening to our employees and investing in their success, we can strengthen our schools, reduce turnover, and ensure that every student benefits from having highly qualified teachers and staff.
I support strong, accessible pre-K programs because quality early childhood education gives children a strong foundation for success in school and beyond. Pre-K helps children build early academic, social, and emotional skills while developing confidence and a love of learning. I believe every child should have the opportunity to enter kindergarten prepared to learn and succeed, regardless of their family’s circumstances. Supporting high-quality pre-K is an important investment in our children, our families, and the future of our community.
I am seeking reelection because I believe my experience, relationships, and commitment to our children are especially important as Buncombe County Schools moves into a new chapter. With Dr. Jennifer Reed now serving as superintendent following Dr. Rob Jackson’s retirement, continuity and strong board leadership will be important as we work together to support our students, teachers, and families.
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