Change Address

VOTE411 Voter Guide

Rutherford County School Board Zone 1

School board members determine how the district functions, including approving the budget, curriculum, and school zones. They hire and evaluate the Director of Schools. The school board is responsible for adopting the policies that are followed throughout the school system. The policies they approve follow federal and state laws.

Click a candidate icon to find more information about the candidate. To compare two candidates, click the "compare" button. To start over, click a candidate icon.

  • Candidate picture

    Jeanice McCord
    (D)

Biographical Information

What do you see as the main responsibilities of a county school board member?

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing the Rutherford County Schools at this time?

If elected, how would you address that challenge?

Campaign Mailing Address 139 murray lane
LaVergne, TN 37086
Campaign Phone 6158730241
Campaign Website http://www.jeanice4zone1.com
Why am I running? Today I’m running for School Board in Zone 1 because I believe our public schools deserve strong, thoughtful leadership that puts them first
About Me I’m a Tennessee native, graduate of MTSU, but most importantly, a mother community advocate, and lifelong supporter of public education. I am a mom on a mission, not a politician on a pedestal. I believe that public schools should have the resources and funds needed, and that all students should be protected and that we support our educators with transparency and communication
Rutherford County school board members are elected officials responsible for setting the district's overall educational policies, approving the annual budget, and overseeing the superintendent. Board members establish the strategic direction and goals for the school system, adopt curriculum standards, approve personnel policies, and ensure the district complies with state and federal education laws. Board members also represent the interests of their constituents by attending public meetings, engaging with community members, and acting as a liaison between the public and school administration. Members vote on major decisions like school construction projects, contract approvals, redistricting, & the adoption of new academic programs.
Rutherford County Schools faces several significant challenges, including rapid population growth that strains classroom capacity and requires ongoing school construction to keep pace with demand. Teacher recruitment and retention remain difficult as salaries compete with neighboring districts and the cost of living rises. We also grapple with increasing student diversity, requiring expanded English language learner programs and special education services. Mental health support for students has grown in urgency post-pandemic, and managing school safety and security continues to demand resources and attention along with infrastructure issues and transportation shortages.
If elected, I will prioritize competitive teacher pay and retention incentives to keep quality educators in our classrooms. I will advocate for strategic school construction planning that stays ahead of our county's rapid growth. I will push for expanded mental health resources and counseling staff in every school, while supporting robust special education and English learner programs. I will champion intellectual freedom and ensure students have access to diverse ideas and perspectives. I will advocate to strengthen school safety measures, whether that fear comes from gun violence or policies that put their well being at risk.