Incumbent
Yes
Education
Phd in Philosophy, Masters in Theology, Bachelors of Theology and Bachelor of Business Administration (Organizational Mgmt)
City of Residence
Dunnellon, FL
Campaign Phone
3528046871
I believe my experience, my heart for service, and my commitment to our community have prepared me well to continue serving on the Marion County School Board. Since 2018, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside fellow board members to help lead a district of approximately 46,000 students, 7,000 employees, 64 schools, and a billion-dollar budget. My background in business, public service, and ministry has taught me how to listen, bring people together, solve problems, and make thoughtful decisions. Every decision I make is guided by one question: “What’s best for our students?” I remain committed to ensuring every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.
Great teachers are the foundation of great schools, and if we want to attract and keep the very best, we have to make sure they feel valued. That starts with competitive pay and benefits, but it also means giving them the support they need to succeed. We should reduce unnecessary paperwork, strengthen mentoring for new teachers, provide meaningful professional development, and recognize excellence in the classroom. Just as important, we must maintain safe, respectful learning environments where teachers know they are appreciated. When educators feel supported and respected, they’re more likely to stay in Marion County and invest in our students for years to come.
I believe the best leaders spend more time listening than talking. That’s why I make it a priority to be present in our schools and throughout the community. Whether it’s visiting campuses, attending community meetings, hosting town halls, or simply answering emails, phone calls, and messages on social media, I want people to know their voices matter. I listen to teachers, parents, staff, students, and community members because the best decisions come from understanding different perspectives. I also rely on facts, data, and fiscal responsibility to guide my decisions. My commitment is to lead with transparency, treat everyone with respect, and always put the best interests of our students first.
I am a proven community leader who serves with Integrity, Trust and Commitment. I believe in being accessible and available to the community and seek to be available to all.
Incumbent
No
Education
Graduate of Florida Internation University, Miami Florida, Public Administration
City of Residence
dunnellon florida 34432
Campaign Phone
352-804-1047
I am a 4 year Air Force Vietnam veteran attaining the rank of SSgt. E5. I am a graduate of Florida International University with a degree in public administration. I was a Postal Service Manager for 36 years and Postmaster Dunnellon. I am an experienced leader and manager.
Restore dignity, appreciation, respect and institutional support for skilled and dedicated teachers. With budget constraints work for pay increases and merit pay for top flight teachers. Give teacher control and authority in the classrom, backed by the administration.
I believe in managing by "walking around", getting to know the real world of public education. The job of the school board is oversight, responsible for the budget, performance overview and achieving of goals. The Supt. and the staff are the ones who are mandated to teach and reach goals using the resources the school board has allocated to them. Communication and monitoring is the key and knowing the progress in all areas of the school district.
Marion County School District is not performing well and has not for over a decade. The district is always in the bottom third of the 67 Florida School Districts and is serious financial straits. The school district must make tough choices and be managed better. The infrastructure is in serious condition and needs serious , immediate attention. Marion County needs an experienced manager and concerned citizen to be a change agent on the board. The status quo is not acceptable.
