I’m motivated by Horry County’s rapid growth and the need to keep schools strong and student-focused. My priorities are managing growth, improving academic outcomes, supporting teachers, strengthening parent involvement, and maintaining safe, fiscally responsible schools. I will continue data-driven planning, expand CTE and fine arts, and ensure resources stay focused on student success.

Schools need strong mental health support. I support expanding counselors, psychologists, and social workers, adding Rehabilitative Behavioral Health Services positions, and exploring Certified Peer Support Specialists to fill service gaps. Early intervention and strong partnerships with families and community providers help students stay focused, support teachers, and create safer schools.

Students come first. Enhancement of literacy must be the priority. During the COVID recovery, literacy scores in reading and math increased in District 1 public schools, however, we are still 13th in below-grade level reading and math nationally. I intend to recommend and push for funding to introduce tutors into our schools to enable a continuing education program improving not only our statistics, but preparing our students, and through them a better future for our communities.

More! Teachers and children, all face mental health challenges. From the adult "how will I stay financially okay, and the students seem extra raucous this year" to the child issues of fear, depression, and anger, we all share similar issues. I will propose more board member visitation to schools to interact with staff and students, locate and use additional mental health resources, and ensure both teacher and student safety is monitored diligently.