Note: Brown’s response was received over a phone call.
Steven Brown, has a vision for educational inclusivity and equity and has announced his candidacy for a position on the Spartanburg School District Four Board. Brown’s motivation rooted in the belief that “education is a pathway out of poverty,” stems from a desire to provide strong representation for African American students and families throughout the district.
Brown’s campaign message emphasizes the significance of diverse representation on the school board, allowing children and families to connect with the leadership and decisions that shape their education. “We need a strong African American presence on the board so children and families throughout the district can have representation they can relate to,” Brown states.
One of Brown’s primary goals, if elected, is “to advocate for improved services for students with special needs,” a cause he believes is often overlooked. “It appears students with special needs are often overlooked,” Brown remarks, highlighting the need for a more comprehensive and supportive approach to special education.
When it comes to qualifications, Brown draws attention to his leadership experience within the church and his active involvement in community service. He believes “these roles have equipped him to collaborate with fellow leaders, offering insights from various perspectives.” “This diverse perspective,” he asserts, “is vital for effective decision-making that serves the needs of all students.”
In his concluding statement, Brown underscores “the importance of the education system in shaping successful futures for all students.” His campaign seeks to create an environment where every student is equipped with the tools and resources, they need to achieve their potential.
Brown wants to remind the community of the transformative power of education and the need for representation that reflects the diversity and needs of every student and family.
Nathan Craig
Why are you running for the Board of Education? To serve the students, staff, and community of District 4.
If elected, what will be your priorities? To set and support policy that benefits the students, staff and community of District 4.
Is there a particular issue that motivates you to serve on the board of education? No
What particular experiences or skills have prepared you to serve as a board member? I have 14 years of experience in the public school system as a teacher, coach and administrator.
In what school district or community activities/organizations have you been involved? Founding member of Team Heart and Soul, an organization that raises money through athletic events to benefit those in need in the Woodruff community.
Why should you be elected to the Board of Education? To support and serve the students, staff, and community of School District 4.
What differentiates you from the other candidates and/or board members? My experience working at different levels within the District 4 school system as well as my experience working in other school districts.
What should people know about you that makes you the best candidate? District 4 is my home. I am passionate about continuing to provide a structured environment with high expectations for all students that benefits our community.
Election Campaign:
Are you running with any organized slate of candidates? No
Have you received any donations or endorsements from any group(s)? If so, which groups? No
How will you promote your school board candidacy? Word of mouth and campaign signs.
Board of Education Governance:
What attributes and behaviors are essential for school board members? Integrity and thoughtful leadership.
What do you see as the primary work of the board of education? To set policy, support the decisions made by the district leadership, and represent the community.
What is a school board member’s role and responsibility? How does that role differ from the role of the superintendent or administration? A school board member’s role is to set and support board policy with the other board members. The superintendent and administration are in charge of enforcing board policy and making the day to day decisions for the school district.
How can a school board know if its goals are being accomplished and its policies are being implemented? By consistently evaluating the information provided to them through the administration and being present and active in the community.
What is the best way to address differences of opinion on the board or between the board and the administration? Differences of opinion are best addressed in discussion between the board and administration. Ultimately, school board members must remember their responsibilities and those of the administration.
Could you support a board decision you did not vote in favor of? Why or why not? Yes, it is a board members responsibility to set and support the policy for the District.
How can the board be accessible to the community? To specific community groups? Through regular board meetings and being present at school district events.
What is the public relations role of the board? To support the mission and vision of the school district.
How can a board of education best communicate with its constituent groups? Regular board meetings and specific publications.
Achievements gaps have widened since COVID, what ideas can you recommend to address this? The school boards responsibility would be to evaluate and support recommendations made by the district leadership team.
Educational Programs:
What issues do you believe the district needs to address in its academic program and offerings? What changes would you recommend? The school boards responsibility is to evaluate and support the recommendations made by the district leadership team that continue and expand upon District 4’s tradition of academic excellence.
What should the school district do to better prepare students as citizens? Continue to support a structured environment for students to learn.
What can be done to improve student achievement and ensure everyone who graduates is college-ready, career-ready, or ready to enter the military? Continue to evaluate and set policy that benefits all students.
What ideas do you have about the importance of vocational training? Vocational training is extremely important.
Should various pathways to success be emphasized like military, college, workforce? Yes
What is the role of schools in teaching children about topics such as: sex education, cyber-safety, AIDS, wellness, justice, civic engagement, bullying? The role of schools is to teach the standards set forth by the South Carolina Department of Education.
What are your thoughts on your school district’s programs for special education students, English Language Learners (ELL), and gifted students? The school district is working very hard to ensure there are programs to support all students, including those eligible for student services.
What are your thoughts on lunch shaming? Shaming in any capacity is unacceptable.
What are your thoughts about discipline shaming? Shaming in any capacity is unacceptable.
School Board Issues:
What is your vision for education in this community? For School District 4 to continue to offer a structured environment with high expectations in all areas for students to learn and achieve at the highest level.
What do you see as the major issue(s) facing your school district? Public education? The major issue facing School District 4 is the rapid growth. The biggest issue facing public education today is the added responsibilities society continues to place on school districts.
What are your areas of concern regarding student achievement in your district? Growth
Do you have specific suggestions for improvement? Continue to hold high expectations for students in all areas.
Given all the issues that arise, how can the board stay focused on student achievement? Consistently adhering to their responsibilities as a school board.
How does a school board balance the need to provide a quality education with the need to respond to the local taxpayer burden? While increasing taxpayers burdens in never easy, the school districts responsibility is to ensure a quality education for the students of School District 4.
What are your thoughts on the current and the proposed budget for your school district? I think District 4 does a good job of maximizing the funds they have for student benefit.
As a board member, where would you look to make budget cuts? In areas that are unnecessary or are not directly benefiting students.
Are there any areas you would not consider cutting? It would be very difficult to make cuts in any area that would directly decrease the benefit provided to students for their education.
How would you determine your budget priorities? Student success is at the forefront.
What changes should be made on the state and local level regarding public education? State and local decision makers need a better perspective on the challenges present in the everyday classroom.
What are your thoughts about the new high school constructing plans? It is an exciting time for the community and School District 4.
Bobby Edwards
Why are you running for the Board of Education?
I am running because I spent my entire professional career as a teacher and administrator, and I feel that I have much more to give to students, parents and staff members. I hope to see District 4 progress, while at the same time, honor the traditions that we hold dear.
If elected, what will be your priorities?
I will focus on providing educational opportunities that educate the entire student. I believe all students should be exposed to learning usable skills at the local career center. I hope to improve employee morale and workload. Equality for all students and staff members will be a priority, in order to ensure that all situations are handled in a fair and consistent manner. I will work to ensure there is accountability at all levels of the district education system.
Is there a particular issue that motivates you to serve on the board of education?
I have always had a servant heart and I want to serve the students, parents and staff of Spartanburg School District 4.
What particular experiences or skills have prepared you to serve as a board member?
Having taught in a classroom for sixteen years, I understand that education of students begins with building positive relationships with students. It has been my experience that students perform at a higher level, and have fewer disciplinary actions, when they feel safe, valued and cared for in the classroom.
As an administrator for more than twelve years, I have fostered relationships with students, parents and colleagues. I participated in the day-to-day operations of Spartanburg County’s largest Career and Technology Center. As the Assistant Director, my role gave me experience in budgeting, procurement, curriculum and professional development, personnel and many other operations of the Center.
In what school district or community activities/organizations have you been involved?
I currently serve as Deacon Chairman at Antioch Baptist church, assistant treasurer, assistant teacher of the Next Generation class and choir member. I served as a Boy Scout leader for more than ten years. I served as Fire Commissioner for the former Enoree Fire Department.
Why should you be elected to the Board of Education?
I am a product of Spartanburg School District 4. I am well respected in the community and am very approachable when people bring me their concerns. I am loyal, trustworthy and my professional career experiences make me more than qualified for the Office of School Board Member.
What differentiates you from the other candidates and/or board members?
My real-life experiences in the classroom and administration set me apart from the other candidates and/or board members. Several have spouses, as I do, or family who teach in the district, but I possess the knowledge and experiences in an actual school setting, while others do not.
What should people know about you that makes you the best candidate?
I am well qualified for the office and I truly want an educational system that is best for students, parents, and staff members of District 4
Election Campaign:
Are you running with any organd slate of candidates?
No. I am not affiliated with any of the other candidates.
Have you received any donations or endorsements from any group(s)? If so, which groups?
I have not received any donations or endorsements from any group or individual.
How will you promote your school board candidacy?
My son-in-law will be assisting with my campaign. We will be advertising with fliers, coroplast signage and word of mouth.
Board of Education Governance:
What attributes and behaviors are essential for school board members?
School board members should be courteous, approachable, and intelligent. Board members should be of high moral character and individuals with integrity.
School board members should care about the students and what is best for them. They should be thinkers and see the bidder picture, while paying attention to detail. Board members should research any changes before agreeing to make them and not rubberstamp initiatives.
What do you see as the primary work of the board of education?
I see the primary work of the board of education as being good stewards of the taxpayers’ monies. I believe the board should represent the citizens and their interests in matters of education. The board should work to provide oversite of the school district and ensure that all initiatives are implemented as intended.
What is a school board member’s role and responsibility? The role and responsibility of a member should be to ensure that students are afforded every opportunity to be successful in their educational efforts while attending District 4 schools. The school board should maintain accountability for the superintendent, administration and employees of the district.
How does that role differ from the role of the superintendent or administration? The board’s role is a broad role in the operation of the district. The superintendent and administration are responsible for the day-to-day operation of the district and its schools and employees.
How can a school board know if its goals are being accomplished and its policies are being implemented?
They can review data associated with the policies and practices to determine if they are working and being implemented in the best fashion. Board members should also be visible in the schools and interact with staff and students to determine if the goals are being met.
What is the best way to address differences of opinion on the board or between the board and the administration?
The board, superintendent and administration should meet to discuss the difference of opinion and ask themselves the question, “Is this what is best for the students of District 4?”
Could you support a board decision you did not vote in favor of? Why or why not?
I could support a decision that I did not vote in favor of if that decision would not harm students, staff or the reputation of the district. I understand that the school board must work together and be a united front.
What is the public relations role of the board?
The public relations role of the bord and its members is to be visible, accessible and approachable to the stakeholders within the district.
How can a board of education best communicate with its constituent groups?
I think the Visions newsletter is an excellent way to get information out. Also, I feel that board members should be actively involved in the community and attend district functions as regularly as possible.
Achievements gaps have widened since COVID, what ideas can you recommend to address this?
The effects of COVID regarding student achievement were noticed almost immediately in the education community. By afterschool learning centers could provide additional instruction to those who are behind.
Educational Programs:
What issues do you believe the district needs to address in its academic program and offerings?
Based on feedback that I have received for members of the community, there is a need for expanding course offerings in academics and exploratory classes. I feel that the district could do a better job of utilizing R.D. Anderson Applied Technology Center.
What changes would you recommend?
Provide access to more course offerings to students. During my time at the career center, I encountered many WHS students. Many of which have gone to college, have a career, or joined the military to utilize the skills that they acquired at R.D. Anderson. I would hope to see the number in attendance at the center continue to grow and the center be a more integral part of the education of District 4 students.
What should the school district do to better prepare students as citizens?
Courses in personal finance, life skills, citizenship could help to prepare students to be good citizens.
What can be done to improve student achievement and ensure everyone who graduates is college-ready, career-ready, or ready to enter the military?
I believe that current resources such as R.D. Anderson, could be better utilized to help ready students for college and careers. JROTC would help to prepare , students for a career in the military.
What ideas do you have about the importance of vocational training?
Based upon my experience, I have seen that about seventy percent of students are missing out on Career and Technical Education. The students within that group often leave high school with no plans to go to college or the military. If they are not exposed to the career center, many end up leaving high school with no usable skills and often find themselves in low-level, low-skill, entry level positions.
Should various pathways to success be emphasized like military, college, workforce?
Yes. The South Carolina Department of Education established those pathways several years ago.
What is the role of schools in teaching children about topics such as: sex education, cyber-safety, AIDS, wellness, justice, civic engagement, bullying?
In todays’ society, the school is required to educate students in these areas. The education system has been charged to educate the ‘whole’ child and these areas fall within that charge.
What are your thoughts on your school district’s programs for special education students, English Language Learners (ELL), and gifted students?
I think the district does a good job in some areas and could use improvement in others. For instance, students who suffer from dyslexia shouldn’t have to go to other districts, counties or private schools to receive their instruction at their parent’s expense, when the district is receiving taxpayer monies for that student.
What are your thoughts on lunch shaming?
Lunch shaming is wrong. Often parents or guardians struggle to make ends meet. The child cannot help their socio-economic status. I applaud the districts’ providing free breakfast and lunch to all students in recent years. Several parents have told me how much they appreciate this program.
What are your thoughts about discipline shaming?
Discipline shaming is wrong and a completely unacceptable practice. All students should not be disciplined for the actions of fellow students. Discipline, whether it be a student or staff member, should be firm, fair and consistent.
School Board Issues:
What is your vision for education in this community?
I hope to see more successful, educated citizens in our community. I envision an education system that doesn’t focus on a test score more than the human being taking that test. I want an education system in which all within the system are treated equitably, valued, understood and can voice opinions without fear of retribution.
What do you see as the major issue(s) facing your school district?
Class size, teacher retention, unwillingness to accept change, and equality.
Public education?
Teacher retention, student safety and the mental health crisis.
What are your areas of concern regarding student achievement in your district?
Once again, student achievement should not be solely based on standardized test scores. Student achievement should be measured as a progression over time.
Do you have specific suggestions for improvement? The school board and administration must work together to begin initiatives for supporting staff wellbeing, possibly using Spartanburg 6’s Wellness Center as a model. Develop plans to aid in teacher retention, recruiting and staff development. Possibly offer financial incentives for veteran teachers and new hires. Show appreciation for teachers and staff more than one week per year; they are the true heroes of the district. Teacher morale seems to be at an all-time low across the nation, it would be things like these that could help to improve morale, thus increasing retention and recruitment.
Given all the issues that arise, how can the board stay focused on student achievement?
Attend regular meetings, stay informed about trends in education and get out in the schools and be present. It sounds simple but it is effective.
How does a school board balance the need to provide a quality education with the need to respond to the local taxpayer burden?
The school board needs to ensure that the district is operating on a manageable budget. The board must be good stewards of all funding, local, state and federal. The board cannot allow frivolous spending when constituents are struggling with their own finances.
What are your thoughts on the current and the proposed budget for your school district?
The budget as it stands operates the district within its financial means.
As a board member, where would you look to make budget cuts?
I would have to closely examine the budget before determining where cuts should be made.
Are there any areas you would not consider cutting?
I would not consider cutting funding of the Arts. Art, Chorus, Band and others provide students opportunities to express themselves, they aid in improving math skills, language skills and add life experiences. Another area where cuts should not be made is Career and Technology Education. These courses provide real-life experiences and hands-on activities which provide students with skills that can help them later in life, whether it be in their career choice or skills to use around their own homes.
How would you determine your budget priorities?
I would look at needs assessments to determine where the greatest needs are.
What changes should be made on the state and local level regarding public education?
While I understand that test scores are tied to funding, I would like to see more of a focus on the student. I would like to see less governance from the state and federal governments and return that ability back to the local board.
What are your thoughts about the new high school constructing plans?
Honestly, I like the layout of the new high school. However, the trends showed projected growth in this area nearly a decade ago. Measures should have been taken at that time to get the construction started in a timely manner. If measures had been taken at that time, the district would not have schools that are bursting at the seams today.
Elaina Hyatt
Occupation: Educator
Why are you running for the Board of Education?
District Four has always been a district that others seek to emulate. As a board member, I will work to ensure the practices of our district are ethically sound while still providing our students with opportunities and experiences that are equal to or better than our surrounding districts. I will also work to ensure our teachers and staff feel supported and appreciated.
Is there a particular issue that motivates you to serve on the board of education?
There are many issues that need to be addressed; however, the main focus should always be “doing what is best for our children.” If we address issues with this sole motto in mind, issues will become less of an obstacle and more of an opportunity to provide the tools needed for our students’, teachers’, and staffs’ success.
What particular experiences or skills have prepared you to serve as a board member?
In addition to being a District Four alumni, this year will make my 16th year in education. I have taught in Spartanburg County District’s 4 and 6 and am currently serving in Laurens County School District 55. I have taught k-12 Special Education as well as Career and Technology Education, been a school administrator, and am currently a Special Education Coordinator. Although, I believe firsthand experience and opportunities are crucial for success, these opportunities have been provided me due to my education. I hold an Associate’s Degree in Marketing, a Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education, a Master’s Degree in Administration and Leadership and a Specialist Degree in Superintendency.
4. In what school district or community activities/organizations have you been involved?
I was the 2022-2023 Teacher of the Year for Woodruff Elementary School. I am a member of Council for Exceptional Children, and I am very active in my church. At church, I serve on the Personnel Committee, am a youth leader, children’s church teacher, and choir member. I am an active advocate for women and children who are victims of domestic abuse.
Micha Kelley
Occupation: Real Estate Agent
About me: I have been married for 20 years this October and have 2 children that attend District 4 schools. I have been active in the schools and community for almost 10 years.
Previous Political or Public Service: No political experience. I have served on the PTO at Woodruff Primary and Woodruff Elementary. I have also served on HOA board in my community.
Why do you want to serve on the District 4 Board of Trustees?
I want to serve on the District 4 Board of Trustees because education is the foundation of a successful future. I am passionate about ensuring Woodruff students have access to quality education, regardless of their background or circumstances. I want to ensure Woodruff students are being offered equal opportunities as students in neighboring districts. We need to educate our students on different career paths and help them make the best decision for their future. I am a problem solver. I have a proven track record of identifying and solving problems. I am not afraid to challenge the status quo and think outside the box. I am confident that I can use my skills to help the school board make sound decisions that are in the best interests of students.
District 4 has a tradition of solid structure, discipline, and academic rigor and was once known as one of the best districts in the state. I want to make sure we continue these traditions. I plan to keep the best and improve the rest!
What are the top issues you will focus on as a trustee?
If elected to the Board of Trustees, I will focus on these top issues.
Opportunity: I would work to ensure we do what is best for the student. I want all students to have access to a quality education and opportunities like RD Anderson and the Master Skills Center. I would focus on reducing class sizes, more electives at the high school, and the option to take a foreign language in middle school. I want to bring clubs like First Tee to the Primary and Elementary students. We must research what other schools in the state and nation are doing and see what is successful and what we can do better. We have to make certain our students can compete for scholarships, college acceptance, and when applying for jobs after high school graduation.
Technology: I would seek ways for District 4 to better prepare students for the technological world we live in. Technology has become a crucial aspect of modern education, and our students are behind. We need professional development opportunities for teachers to enhance their technological skills and learn how to integrate technology in the classroom effectively.
Teachers: I support providing more professional development for teachers and making sure they have the resources they need to teach, such as curriculum and classroom materials. I would also work to ensure that all teachers feel supported and valued. I want to give teachers a voice in decision-making and start a teacher forum. The teachers are with these students and know what each one excels at and their struggles. Many teachers have left the district because they did not feel valued, supported, or heard.
I have a heart for people and the children in our district. I want to give the students the tools they need to be productive members of society and achieve their goals and dreams.
Why should you be elected to the board of education?
I love people and have two children who attend District 4 schools. I am ready to work to help District 4 prepare for the growth ahead. I constantly research any topic brought before me to educate myself so I can better understand and ensure I feel comfortable discussing it or making any decisions. I want what is best for the students. I want teachers to love their job here and not want to retire or leave. I will ask questions and have the hard conversations that have been avoided. I am willing to speak for parents. I delivered a speech to the board in January. In over ten years, I was the first to bring a concern before the Board of Trustees at a monthly meeting. I took the time to research and present the data and concerns I and other parents had. The impact of the facts I presented resulted in changes made at the high school, from curriculum offerings to allowing the senior students to leave early in the afternoon, and several other changes. District 4 must continue to evaluate what is best for the student and be willing to make changes when necessary.
Sandy Norman (incumbent)
What attributes and behaviors are essential for school board members? Confidentiality, Integrity, Empathy, Love and Availability
What do you see as the primary work of the board of education? Oversee the school and represent the interests of those in the district. To oversee board meetings and take action that both serves students and aligns with the district’s priorities.
What is a school board member’s role and responsibility? How does that role differ from the role of the superintendent or administration? They establish the vision and goals for the school and set standards for the performance of schools and the superintendent.
How can a school board know if its goals are being accomplished and its policies are being implemented? Monthly reports from school and district leaders.
What is the best way to address differences of opinion on the board or between the board and the administration? Being open and honest with no hidden agendas
Could you support a board decision you did not vote in favor of? Why or why not? Yes, because the board must be unified at all times.
How can the board be accessible to the community? To specific community groups? I have an open-door policy and always let the community and community groups know they are welcome to all board meetings.
What is the public relations role of the board? Service and communication between the school and the community.
Why are you running for the Board of Education? I can be a voice for all students, staff, and the community.
If elected, what will be your priorities? To make sure that the schools are safe for students and staff and to make sure that everyone receives the opportunity to be treated equally.
Is there a particular issue that motivates you to serve on the board of education?
What particular experiences or skills have prepared you to serve as a board member?
In what school district or community activities/organizations have you been involved? District 4, I am currently a school board member seeking re-election.
Why should you be elected to the Board of Education? I’ll stand up for parents and children, open door policy for all. I believe in equal opportunities for students and staff, and I have a heart for young people.
What differentiates you from the other candidates and/or board members? I will speak up for the students and staff, and I don’t mind asking the hard questions.
Why are you running for the Board of Education? I am running for the District 4 school board because have enjoyed serving the last 8 years and being a part of the growth and improvements in our district. I would love to get the opportunity to serve another term.
If elected, what will be your priorities? My priorities, if elected, would continue to be the best education for our students, and to be a voice for our teachers, bus drivers, support staff, and administration. However, my top priority would be to see our new High School completed.
Is there a particular issue that motivates you to serve on the board of education? I have no particular issue to motivate me for running again other than to be a part of one of the best school districts in our state. We have a lot to be proud of in our district, great education opportunities, clean facilities, and great teachers leading our children.
What particular experiences or skills have prepared you to serve as a board member? I feel that I am a good listener to the concerns of the community and that I have an open mind to bring their concerns to the table. I have and will continue to make myself available to anyone with questions or issues.
In what school district or community activities/organizations have you been involved? I have served on District 4 school board for 8 years. I try to be involved with attending most events and activities in our district, especially sporting events. I am an active member of Bellview Baptist Church and the Men’s group. We serve monthly at the Agape center and I also participate in preparing meals at the soup kitchen.
Why should you be elected to the Board of Education? I think I have a viable interest in our school district having graduated from WHS in 1972. I have a vested interest here because of family who are currently or have graduated from Woodruff, a daughter who worked here for 17 years, and a wife working in the district for many years. I also have 8 years of experience and training on the board.
What differentiates you from the other candidates and/or board members? There are several factors that differentiate me from other candidates the first being that I have 8 years of experience and have graduated the training through the SC School Board association. I also graduated from Woodruff High School and currently have family as faculty and students. Being a lifelong member of Woodruff, I have community connections. I am retired and with that would be available throughout the day. Finally, I am and have been willing to address controversial issues with the board.
What should people know about you that makes you the best candidate? I feel that most people who know me will attest that I am sincere and true to my word. I am always available for anyone and will try to be the voice for anyone who may have a question or issue. I would want people to know that I am striving to be the best board member I can be and that it’s my desire to always make our children our top concern.
Rhonda Sumner
My name is Rhonda Sumner, and I am running for District 4 school board. I am running for the school board because I love children. I was born and raised in the Enoree, Woodruff area. I graduated from WHS in 1979. I have a BA in elementary ed from Clemson University and a master’s degree in gifted education from Converse College. I taught at WPS for 17 years. My dad, Don Sumner, was a principal at Woodruff and on the school board. My mom, Betty Sumner, was a teacher for 33 years, with the majority of those years teaching at WES. So, my parents instilled in me a love for children’s education and community. I believe that the attributes and behaviors that are essential for board members are to be accessible to the students, parents, and teachers; I believe that it is essential to listen and to listen intently and to make decisions to the best of my ability. I believe that the Lord has placed us here for such a time as this for the benefit of the children. The board is here to be a liaison between the students, the parents, the administration, the teachers, and the community.
I have not received any donations for my candidacy. I will promote my candidacy by “word of mouth” and by being accessible to my family, friends, and community.
Woodruff has always had high academic standards, sports standards, and art standards. I believe that the students should “stay the course” on whatever their gifts and talents are—whether it be college, vocational school, arts, sports, gifted education, special education, career readiness, or military education. There is something special inside every child, and we as educators need to help them walk through the open door. That is what education is all about. Discipline is an integral part of education. A teacher cannot teach effectively unless there is discipline in the classroom. My parents taught me that years ago. In order to have discipline, there has to be mutual respect and trust between the teacher, the students, the parents, the community, and the administration.
Education in this community is important to the vitality of the community because our children are the future. Diligence, honesty, determination, and perseverance should all be pillars of education in this community. Budget priorities for the district need to be balanced on what is actually necessary for the education and well-being of the students.
I was given a great opportunity last year to be able to homeschool my 12-year-old grandson. During that process, I was able to pinpoint and recognize some areas that needed improvement. He and I went back to the basics with textbooks in his subjects, reading the classics, and memorization. That made a big difference. My hope is that I opened up a whole new world of education for him, and it was truly a joy for me.
I like a quote from one teacher, “When someone is taught the joy of learning, it becomes a life-long process that never stops, a process that creates a logical individual. That is the challenge and joy of teaching.” Again, I love the children, and the school board stands as an advocate for the students, the parents, the teachers, the administration, and the community. It would be an honor to serve all of these people by being elected to the school board. I am dependable. I am honest. I will stand for what’s right in whatever situation that may come. I would appreciate your vote on November 7th.
Kathleen Welch
Current Occupation: Realtor and Entrepreneur
Years Living in Woodruff: 7 years
Previous Political or Public Service: I have not held or run for public office before. I have worked for a public university.
Why do you want to serve on the District 4 Board of Trustees:
The Woodruff area will grow substantially over the next few years as the new BMW plant comes online. This growth will bring many opportunities and challenges to the Woodruff community and the school system. I have lived in other communities where the growth was mismanaged and the negative impact on schools and children was substantial. Reversing the effects of the bad decisions took significant time and resources, which most communities, including Woodruff, cannot afford. I aim to focus on our fantastic opportunity over the next few years to keep the best of Woodruff (believe me, Woodruff is a gem!) and address what isn’t currently working.
As the mother of two girls, June and Jackie, who attend Woodruff schools, I care deeply that they and their peers have the best education possible and a range of career paths after graduation. My parents were both teachers, and I have worked in higher education at two major universities focused on outreach to employers. This background gives me a unique perspective that will be very helpful to the Board during this pivotal period. Over the next few years, we will have a unique opportunity to retain the best of Woodruff traditions while reconsidering and, if appropriate, restructuring the slate of educational opportunities Woodruff offers. If elected to the Board, I plan to ensure our children are prepared to compete and thrive in the global economy.
What are the Top Issues You Will focus on as a Trustee:
The two critical issues The District Four Board of Trustees should focus on are retention/support of teachers and staff and ensuring the curriculum is aligned to provide career path opportunities for all students. Not every child wants or should go to college. Trade schools, entrepreneurship, and the military are great avenues for employment, and we must ensure these options are available for the students. Additionally, I want to look at how District Four can improve its support of athletics and extracurricular activities that enrich our children’s social and leadership skills. More funding will be available as the tax base increases; it will be critical to carefully consider how these funds are allocated to the various programs. None of this will be easy to do, and the current Board is working hard to ensure District Four’s success in these areas. But I think a fresh perspective is valuable in any organization, and I would welcome the opportunity to contribute during this pivotal period.
Marie Rhodes Williams
Background/Reasons for Seeking Election:
Why are you running for the Board of Education?
I’m running to be a District 4 Trustee because I have a vested interest in this district. I am a graduate of Spartanburg 4, I taught for nearly a decade in the district, and I have children here. I believe that our schools are a crucial part of our community, and I would like the opportunity to help guide them into this new season of change and growth.
Is there a particular issue that motivates you to serve on the board of education?
I believe that public education as a whole is under much scrutiny. Teachers, students, and families need to be supported by their community and their administration. It takes all of us working together to produce an environment for students to become their best selves and be ready to face the world beyond school walls.
What particular experiences or skills have prepared you to serve as a board member?
I believe as a former student, parent of students within the district, and former teacher, I bring several perspectives to the table. Not just my own perspectives but the ability to listen and see from all points of view on issues at hand.
What should people know about you that makes you the best candidate?
I am passionate about maintaining the Wolverine spirit. Our district is facing unprecedented growth. With growth comes change. It is crucial to face these changes with a heart for doing what is best for our students. I believe that with careful considerations and strategic planning, we can maintain a sense of community and pride among everyone in District 4.
