Candidates for Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools Board of Education answered questions from WFAE about why they should be elected (or reelected).
14 candidates will be on the ballot for three At-Large seats on the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Board of Education. The race is nonpartisan, so political party identification will not be listed. The top three candidates will win a four-year term, with no runoffs.
Here are some opportunities to watch CMS board candidates field questions from community groups. If you know of other candidate forums that are recorded, email ahelms@wfae.org with a link.
Watch candidates Juanrique Hall, Claire Covington, Bill Fountain, Shamaiye Haynes and Annette Albright speak to the Sara Stevenson Tuesday Forum.
Watch candidates Clara Witherspoon, Brian Kasher, Liz Monterrey, Lenora Shipp, Monty Witherspoon and Michael Johnson speak to the Sara Stevenson Tuesday Forum.
Watch candidates Monty Witherspoon, Liz Monterrey, Bill Fountain, Annette Albright, Shamaiye Haynes, Tigress McDaniel, Lenora Shipp, Clara Witherspoon, MIchael Johnson and Claire Covington speak at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church.
Editor's note: The answers originally published were not all of Bill Fountain's answers.
Occupation:
US Air Force Lieutenant Colonel retired
Middle and High School Teacher retired
Involvement with the school district (employment, kids in the system, volunteer, appointed or elected roles):
Volunteer Civil Air Patrol pilot and student mentor.
Monitor CMS standards and programs, addressing shortfalls and successes (2020-present)
Political experience:
CMS School Board District 1 Candidate, 2022
Education and/or political advocacy groups you’re affiliated with:
UNCC NC teacher's license. Taught middle and high school math, social studies, business, marketing and plus high school earth science
Master's Degree, Business Management and Supervision, Central Michigan University
Bachelor’s Degree, Mathematics, Mississippi State University
Other relevant experience:
Air Force Lieutenant Colonel combat fighter pilot, defense planner
Program and Marketing Manager, Fortune 101 company
Experienced middle and high school teacher in North Carolina schools
Political affiliation:
Republican
Do you support the $2.5 billion school bond on the ballot? Why or why not?
County Commissioner Arthur Griffin may have it right. We need to fix old buildings and build new ones, but CMS must fully utilize the current facilities and know where shortfalls exist. Taxpayers need to know their money is being used wisely.
What should the school board do to increase academic achievement for all students? Are there additional measures that should be taken for the groups and/or schools that are farthest behind?
We must focus classroom lessons on an education curriculum designed for academic achievement and post high school success.
What should the school board do to ensure school safety?
Respect the Code of Student Conduct, continue current gun safety measures, and explore other initiatives.
What should the board do to recruit and retain teachers and support staff?
Respecting the Code of Student Conduct will create a more stable learning environment and enable teachers and staff to have greater job satisfaction in safe and productive classrooms and common areas. Teachers tell me, and in my experience, the classroom must be conducive for learning. For those students who do not respect the learning space and receive a suspension, we must offer alternative opportunities to learn so they keep pace with their peers, with the goal of returning them to the classroom.
What should the school board do to create effective, stable leadership in the district?
1. Hold CMS leadership accountable for student performance and transparency.
2. Invigorate the student-teacher-parent relationship to include parental rights and values.
3. Create an environment that values classical education, the child development process, and age-appropriate learning materials.
4. Respect the code of student conduct for safe and productive classrooms while retaining good teachers.
Why should voters choose you from a 14-person slate for an at-large board seat?
I'm committed to working with the CMS Board of Education, Administrators, experts, parents, and decision makers to ensure an education curriculum designed for self-reliance, post high school success, and a safe learning environment. My leadership and teamwork experience, whether in combat, peacetime, or in a competitive business environment, bodes well for helping our students succeed.
As a former teacher, I understand the challenges of teaching, school administration, and parental concerns for the safety and success of their children. We must work together to focus on our children’s academic and emotional success.
Occupation:
Retired School Counselor; Multi Tiered System of Support Specialist
Involvement with the school district (employment, kids in the system, volunteer, appointed or elected roles):
My husband and I grew up in Charlotte, NC, and graduated from Charlotte Mecklenburg School System. Both of our daughters attended Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools, and now our grandchildren. During our daughter's enrollment, I served on the PTA Board and as Vice President of the PTA at Garinger High School when Dr. Turner served as Principal. I retired from CMS in January 2022 from the position of a Multi-Tier System of Support Specialist. Also, I worked as a licensed School Counselor, Graduation Coach, Teacher Assistant, and Afterschool Site Coordinator with Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools.
Political experience:
I ran for School Board in 2022 -District 4
Education and/or political advocacy groups you’re affiliated with:
North Carolina Central University Charlotte Alumni Association
Other relevant experience:
I hold a Master’s degree in School Counseling, School Administration, and Christian Leadership. An NC education license in School Counseling and School Administration
Political affiliation:
Democrat
Do you support the $2.5 billion school bond on the ballot? Why or why not?
I agree there is a need to renovate older school buildings and add new schools, but the 2.5 billion dollar bond request is too much to pass onto our taxpayers. A recent Mecklenburg County property reevaluation has caused property taxes to increase, and asking taxpayers to share an additional 2.5 billion would be unfair.
What should the school board do to increase academic achievement for all students? Are there additional measures that should be taken for the groups and/or schools that are farthest behind?
Some schools administer the MAP assessment around third grade. The MAP assessment is a great tool, but the question is, is third grade too late to help students catch up? It is important to assess the whole student as early as kindergarten. Doing so could provide excellent data to measure where students are, both socially and academically. Also, when the MAP assessment is administered in early fall, the next concern is whether there is enough staff support to provide the needed academic interventions. The answer would be no, from my experience working inside a school and serving as the MTSS school-based coordinator. Having the needed staff to implement the intervention with fidelity is essential. Our low-performing schools need additional revenues and resources to support intervention blocks.
What should the school board do to ensure school safety?
Safety levels need to be implemented in every school:
1. Securing points of entry to the campus
2. Interior security cameras surveillance
3. Exterior security camera surveillance
Metal Detectors
4. Hall Monitors ( teachers)
5. Advocate for a better screening system before secretaries buzz people into the school building.
6. Resource officers in all schools
7. PBIS behavior management system established in all schools
What should the board do to recruit and retain teachers and support staff?
The teacher salary increase by the state was disappointing, only 7% over two years. Teachers with 15+ years of experience will get 2% and an additional increase once they reach 25 years. I am saddened that the state valued an increased budget for marketing vouchers over paying teachers who have acquired master's degrees. We need to find the revenues on a local level to provide additional teacher raises and bonuses. The school district in Oregon has created a funding source that allowed them to increase their teacher's pay by 21,000 annually. Oregon's increase in teacher pay began attracting qualified teachers; this year, they have no teacher vacancies. Also, in a recent report, the US Military and Defense Schools are considered one of the top-performing schools in the US, and their data is impressive. While reading the article, one thing stood out to me was teachers pay. They paid teachers well. The district has to stop paying low salaries to the people in the buildings doing the work, which is why teacher morale is low and achievement gaps continue to be an issue. We must increase teacher pay and promote a transformational leadership style for school-building leaders. Many teachers have told me that they left CMS and went to a different district because they were devalued and disrespected, and they took a lower salary.
What should the school board do to create effective, stable leadership in the district?
A successful company begins with a successful leader. This quote applies to successful schools as well. Effective leadership is creating a clear and compelling vision and communicating it to obtain staff and community buy-in. When the leader puts in place a clear vision and then develops a plan of accountability that hold each person accountable to do what they hopefully love, educating children, people will follow.
Why should voters choose you from a 14-person slate for an at-large board seat?
When creating an effective team, team members’ skills and knowledge should complement one another. There needs to be board member who knows the Multi-tiered System of Support framework for every school’s success and the training and knowledge of the importance of educating the whole child. I have the skills and knowledge needed to be an effective team member to support the board in building a successful school district.
Occupation:
Growth Marketing
Involvement with the school district (employment, kids in the system, volunteer, appointed or elected roles):
Future CMS Parent c/o 2037
Political experience:
No political experience outside of community based advocacy. This is my first time running for elected office.
Education and/or political advocacy groups you’re affiliated with:
Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Finance from Florida International University. Bachelor's Degree: Finance with a Minor in Political Philosophy from Florida State University.
Other relevant experience:
I believe that my background will contribute a diverse skill set to the board. With an MBA and over 10 years of experience in business and marketing, I bring a comprehensive skill set. Being bilingual and bicultural enhances my ability to connect with various communities across the county. Additionally, I have held leadership roles and possess expertise in successful cross-functional collaboration to achieve results. I am comfortable creating and managing substantial budgets, akin to the $2.1 billion budget of CMS.
In my spare time, I engage in neighborhood advocacy and volunteer work. Recently, I advocated for speed controls on Shamrock Drive after multiple accidents occurred. A few years ago, I initiated a petition to establish a dog park in my neighborhood, which was subsequently approved.
Political affiliation:
Democrat
Do you support the $2.5 billion school bond on the ballot? Why or why not?
Yes, I do support the $2.5 billion school bond. We need facilities that are conducive to learning, and currently, some classrooms don't even have windows. In order for us to achieve true equity in education, our facilities need to be up to par. Additionally, we have an issue with overcrowding. This bond will enable CMS to construct additional schools and make repairs where they are desperately needed.
What should the school board do to increase academic achievement for all students? Are there additional measures that should be taken for the groups and/or schools that are farthest behind?
The school board has embarked on commendable initiatives with their Student Outcomes Focused Governance “SOFG” Model. Currently, the SOFG focuses on enhancing student achievement among segments below college and career readiness benchmarks, with a specific emphasis on Black and Latino students. Despite some progress, a significant achievement gap remains, exacerbated by Covid-19. The challenge lies in maintaining the model's continuity and ensuring adequate resources, sometimes redistributed, reach the schools in greatest need. If elected, I will collaborate with fellow board members to ensure the work's continuation. Improving student outcomes is a gradual process, necessitating consistent, strategic efforts over time, and a resolute board willing to make tough decisions for sustainable change.
What should the school board do to ensure school safety?
I have participated in several CMS School Board listening sessions in recent weeks. A prominent recurring concern is school safety. An effective way to gauge priorities is by examining a governing body's budget. Collaborating with fellow board members, I will ensure strategic decisions are made to ensure the safety of students and teachers. I'm pleased to note that security features will be incorporated into new school constructions. Moreover, CMS should prioritize fostering a positive school culture. Students should have trustworthy adults in the building to confide in, whether regarding violence rumors, personal struggles, or bullying. The pandemic has strained community relationships, underscoring the need for a welcoming and accountable school culture. This environment should help students address issues constructively and utilize restorative practices, ultimately refocusing on their primary goal: learning.
What should the board do to recruit and retain teachers and support staff?
Numerous educators and staff in Mecklenburg County grapple with housing and living expenses. I'm pleased to learn about CMS's teacher-focused workforce housing initiative.
Low wages and salaries pose recruitment and retention hurdles for CMS in securing skilled individuals. We must persist in advocating to the North Carolina General Assembly for higher educator pay, aligning with other similarly educated fields. Continual advocacy for county funds supplementing CMS employee salaries remains imperative.
Creating conducive learning environments for all teachers is essential. CMS faces high demands for new schools and significant upkeep on older ones. I endorse the 2023 bond proposal to address forthcoming needs for new schools and replacements, fostering pride among educators.
As a Board member, I'll encourage the Superintendent to devise innovative ways to attract fresh talent. We should recruit from diverse universities, offering incentives for varied educational professions. Streamlining HR processes is vital; my business background will be a valuable asset in this aspect, supporting both the Board and the Superintendent.
What should the school board do to create effective, stable leadership in the district?
The school board should establish a stable and effective leadership structure that nurtures collaboration and a shared dedication to the district's success. The Board should work closely with the Superintendent to make sure we are reflecting the vision and values of the community.
This can be accomplished through clear expectations and goals, policy stability, community engagement, conflict resolution procedures, and the cultivation of resilience and adaptability.
Why should voters choose you from a 14-person slate for an at-large board seat?
Public education served as my pathway, as it has for many others, from poverty to success. Now, it's my turn to contribute, ensuring doors of opportunity remain open for those who follow. As a working parent, I'm driven by the desire for the best education for my children. Having experienced the transformative power of education firsthand, I'm passionate about securing that for all. Charlotte is my chosen home, and I'm determined to help shape its promising future, starting within our schools. My vision is for CMS to be where Mecklenburg's future leaders are nurtured.
My extensive education and business background equip me to bring value to the Board. Being the first Hispanic-American member offers a unique perspective, informed by a deep understanding of the immigrant experience as a first-generation individual myself.
My commitment lies in prioritizing student outcomes, building community, and advocating for educators. My goal is to ensure every CMS child accesses the best education possible. I've demonstrated my dedication to representing the entire community, from Davidson to Steele Creek, and from Matthews to Mountain Island Lake. It will be an honor to serve at-large on the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education.
Occupation:
Non-Profit Leadership
Involvement with the school district (employment, kids in the system, volunteer, appointed or elected roles):
I have been active with the school district since 2016 serving in a number of capacities. 2016/17 - Project Lift Parent Advisory Committee
*2017/18 - Founded the Charlotte Community Think Tank (formerly the Westside Education Think Tank, West Charlotte High School Parent Teacher Student Association *2018/19 - Joined North Carolina Association of Educators (affiliate/non-voting member), appointed to CMS Bond Oversight Committee
2019 - 2021 West Charlotte High School Parent Teacher Student Association Vice President, West Charlotte High School Parent Excellence Team
2019-2023 CMS Title 1 Parent Advisory Council Member
*2022 Founded West Charlotte High School Foundation (still organizing), guest lecturer/co-teach at UNC-Charlotte Cato College of Education
*Means still active
Political experience:
Black Political Caucus Education Committee, campaign volunteer for numerous local campaigns including school board
Education and/or political advocacy groups you’re affiliated with:
Black Political Caucus Education Committee
Indivisible Charlotte
Poor People's Campaign North Carolina Association of Educators (Affiliate Member) Charlotte Community Think Tank
Other relevant experience:
I have over 30 years of private sector and Non-Profit Leadership experience. I have been engaged in education advocacy and organizing since 2016 in Charlotte and my learnings and experience has influenced my platform and understanding of what we need to make CMS the best it can be.
Political affiliation:
Democrat
Do you support the $2.5 billion school bond on the ballot? Why or why not?
Yes, our schools need funding to replace old buildings and to make necessary capital improvements. Many of our buildings are very old and need to be replaced or improved. It is important to support resources for our schools and especially for needed capital asset needs.
What should the school board do to increase academic achievement for all students? Are there additional measures that should be taken for the groups and/or schools that are farthest behind?
1. Pass policies to support an evidence based framework that supports equity and has proven success in transforming schools and communities to close the achievement gap and lift academic achievement. Make this model available to all communities without a forced mandate. Communities can opt-in (Community Schools Model) https://www.communityschoolsrevolution.org/
2. Adopt behavior interventions to support positive behavior and decrease suspensions and prevent incidents of violence (such as restorative justice practices) https://www.weareteachers.com/restorative-justice/#:~:text=In%20traditional%20justice%2C%20this%20is,a%20mediator%2C%20usually%20a%20teacher.
3. Work with the philanthropic community to develop a sustainable infrastructure for arts and enrichment to support music, arts, theater, and career exploration including entrepreneurship.
4. Strengthen the Learning Community: Give the LC Superintendent full autonomy to oversee his/her learning community. This person would be accountable for selecting a curriculum to meet the needs of students in their LC, learning community culture, equity, community engagement, and academic achievement.
What should the school board do to ensure school safety?
CMS made significant investments in new technology.
We have to be more informed about community related issues that often spill in to the school community. We can accomplish this by working with the city and county grassroots organizations that are focused on violence interruption and intervention.
Give middle school students more healthy outlets such as clubs, sports, and tons of enrichment to keep them busy and out of trouble.
Expand training to the entire school to be violence interrupters and interventionist.
What should the board do to recruit and retain teachers and support staff?
Teacher pay is extremely important and we must continue to advocate for better pay. We can also improve working conditions and school culture by allowing teachers more flexibility to teach vs. teaching to a test, improve behavior by implementing evidence based behavior and learning interventions for struggling students, create on-site amenities such as car washes, dry cleaning services, mobile massages and more. Allow teachers adequate breaks and time to plan their lessons. Bring community assets in to the school to support wrap around services and support for teachers. Make the school a place for learning and also a place of positivity for all who are learning and working.
What should the school board do to create effective, stable leadership in the
district?
Our new superintendent is setting standards for leadership that are focused on student outcomes. As a board we have to hold the superintendent accountable for ensuring that those in leadership are equipped and able to lead effectively.
Why should voters choose you from a 14-person slate for an at-large board seat?
We need to have a school board that understands how education uniquely ties in to community and workforce development and community building.
I am one of the most knowledgeable community members who has not worked or currently working for CMS. My experience has allowed me to establish a platform that is informed by that experience and how we need solutions as opposed to pointing out what is wrong with our school system. I am a proven leader in education and bridge builder.
I am solutions oriented and believe working with parents, teachers, school leadership and staff, along side the community, then we can do better for children, their families, and our community-one evidence based solution at a time.
Occupation:
Minister
Involvement with the school district (employment, kids in the system, volunteer, appointed or elected roles):
I am the parent of a kindergarten student in CMS. I also provide a variety support for students and families in need.
Political experience:
School board at-large candidate
Education and/or political advocacy groups you’re affiliated with:
I am a member of the BPC and African American Caucus of The Mecklenburg County Democratic Party.
Other relevant experience:
I support two schools with supplies, hygiene products, and other relevant resources on a continual basis
Political affiliation:
Democrat
Do you support the $2.5 billion school bond on the ballot? Why or why not?
Yes. The bond will provide new buildings for outdated schools and improve safety of learning environments.
What should the school board do to increase academic achievement for all students? Are there additional measures that should be taken for the groups and/or schools that are farthest behind?
The school board should be laser focused on student outcomes. The board should use every resource available to attract, retain, and support teachers.
What should the school board do to ensure school safety?
The board must continually develop strategies that ensure safe learning environments that go beyond visual representations of safety.
What should the board do to recruit and retain teachers and support staff?
The board should continue to improve incentives for teachers and support staff. Additionally, the board should educate and encourage the community to put pressure on the North Carolina legislature to appropriately fund public education.
What should the school board do to create effective, stable leadership in the district?
The superintendent should have every available resource to leverage.
Why should voters choose you from a 14-person slate for an at-large board seat?
I have proven leadership abilities and and a history of community involvement. Furthermore, I will focus on student outcomes.
Hall has not responded.
Occupation:
Retired Educator/Principal
Involvement with the school district (employment, kids in the system, volunteer, appointed or elected roles):
Elected Charlotte -Mecklenburg School Board At Large Member
Political experience:
Serving as a current member at large on the Charlotte- Mecklenburg School Board
Education and/or political advocacy groups you’re affiliated with:
Black Political Caucus/ Mecklenburg Democratic Women Council/ State Employee Credit Union Education Committee/Mecklenburg Democratic Council
Other relevant experience:
Careered Educator with over 35 years of experience in CMS; Teacher at Elementary & Secondary levels (Science); Professional Development Trainer at CMS; Assistant Principal (7 years) ; Principal - 15 years - (2009 - 2014 named strategic Principal for various schools in CMS); Former HOA Vice President & Treasurer; State Employees Credit Union Advisory Board; Various church auxiliaries (Youth Scholarship Committee/ Church Business Board)
Political affiliation:
Democrat
Do you support the $2.5 billion school bond on the ballot? Why or why not?
Yes- I am a supporter of the school board bonds. As an at-large member of the school board, I strongly advocated for the 2.5 million school bond to be on the ballot. I believe in the public school system and the need to ensure that all children get the sound basic quality education they deserve as prescribed by the NC Board of Education. We need school buildings that enable innovative teaching and learning, promote safe environments, and support student enrichment activities, therefore maximizing student achievement. The bonds are extremely important and especially where there continues to be much growth and development.
What should the school board do to increase academic achievement for all students? Are there additional measures that should be taken for the groups and/or schools that are farthest behind?
We must stay focused on our Student Outcomes Focused Government (SOFG) work. We must continue to effectively monitor our goals and guardrails to support increased levels of student achievement (student outcomes). We have four major areas (pillars) that must be addressed to ensure this happens. These are: academic excellence, people excellence, operational excellence, and engagement excellence (parents, families, communities) with a strong a focus on investing in our people. We must continue to increase our hiring and retention practices for quality educators. We must continue to focus on the whole child - diversity, equity and inclusion, social and emotional learning to make certain our students are ready for the future.
What should the school board do to ensure school safety?
We must continue to hold accountable that all school personnel are following school safety plans, policies and procedures to ensure every student is in a safe and orderly environment conducive to learning.
What should the board do to recruit and retain teachers and support staff?
Placing a principal with strong leadership and management skills as the key instructional leader in every school to create a productive working environment for faculty and staff; Reducing class sizes and providing more teacher support in the classroom; building the capacity of our personnel through meaningful professional development; empowering teachers to engage in the process; but most importantly continuous advocacy for improving teacher pay, and providing incentive for teacher growth and success measures.
What should the school board do to create effective, stable leadership in the district?
I believe we have done just that by hiring a highly qualified, certified, experienced leader at the top who is developing a strong leadership team at the top and throughout the district.
Why should voters choose you from a 14-person slate for an at-large board seat?
As a highly qualified career educator with experience as a teacher both at the elementary and secondary levels, and a principal for fifteen years ( and other administrative positions) with over 35 years of service, I have a proven track record of leadership with the ability to improve student achievement. This experience, I have now taken to the School Board where I have served for the last four years. The work on the Board has provided me with a clear understanding of governance from the classroom to the boardroom and everything in between. This is the real work for improving student outcomes. I should hope this is why voters would choose me over the fourteen candidate. I bring this unique prospective and I want to continue this journey on behalf of all children in CMS. This is always my ""WHY""!
OMAR HARRIS
Harris has not responded.
Occupation:
K12 Education Management Planner
Involvement with the school district (employment, kids in the system, volunteer, appointed or elected roles):
I’m married, a parent of two CMS school children, a scientist, business owner, served in CMS leadership for 7.5 years, was named one of CMS 50 brightest employees, was named an Obama White House Champion of Change, and today provide environmental health and disaster response services to the federal government and schools. My daughter was senior class president at Providence HS during COVID and my son is in CMS athletics. My wife, Liza, worked at the Brace YMCA childcare center for years and is front office at a children's speech and PT clinic today. I spent 6-years as a volunteer art appreciation volunteer teacher for CMS elementary students. CMS hired me to identify chronic building problems making children and staff sick in CMS buildings and to develop the necessary solutions. My CMS program became a USEPA National Model of Sustained Excellence and I became an award winning national USEPA Tools for Schools faculty. I called community hearings to pressure CMS to come clean on Lead Drinking water results CMS failed to release and organized the community coalition of parents, local organizations, clergy and more who presented to the Superintendent about CMS withholding student health data from parents.
Political experience:
I have served as student body president of two colleges, was student Board of Trustees member at Community College with full voting, motion, and closed session privileges. I was the founding secretary of the Illinois Student Association and served as the Master Sargent at Arms of the United States Student Association, both groups student lobbies. I was the first student to lobby congress using the USSA internet when internet first came out. I have been named an Obama White House Champion of Change for my efforts. I was appointed by two Secretaries of the Environment to the NC environmental stewardship oversight committee. I was on the statewide school sanitation code committee. I served on the Mecklenburg Environmental Stewardship Committee, the Metrolina Council of Governments Clean Fuels Coalition, the Mecklenburg County Livable Communities group, Keep Mecklenburg Beautiful Board of Directors. I have represented the United States on a technical exchange with China with the American Conference of Government Industrial Hygienists. I produced over 80 issues based advocacy films for the not-for-profit and arts communities. I served as national faculty on the USEPA Tools for schools program and was on the curriculum development team for the USEPA AHERA K12 program.
Education and/or political advocacy groups you’re affiliated with:
National Safety Council, American Industrial Hygiene Association, Board of Certified Safety Professionals, NC Health Hazards Control Unit, NAACP Chapter Member, Sierra Club, OSHA Training Center Authorized Standards Instructor, AHERA Instructor, Healthy Schools Network
Other relevant experience:
I am an accredited instructor in the federal AHERA environmental health training program for K12 schools since 1990. I teach all modules and all disciplines. I have owned a multi-state accredited bi-lingual safety academy in Washington DC. I have served in a management planner capacity for Chicago Public Schools, DC Public Schools, CMS and many more schools and school districts. I am authorized to teach all AHERA discipline by the NC Health Hazards Control Unit. I was the academic coach to the National Champion Men's collegiate Soccer team as a grad student.
Political affiliation:
This is a non-partisan race. I ride blue waves (Democrat).
Do you support the $2.5 billion school bond on the ballot? Why or why not?
Not this year. CMS needs the money, but we are not getting the best Bond package out of the process it was developed under. I believe the Bond should be put off for 1 year so the new Board can have it updated to get the best possible use out of this massive amount of new tax to be collected.
I can’t ignore that Hugh Hattabaugh had no real ties to this community or our interests. I don't see a situation where there was no senior leadership vision making this package the best possible outcome for our community. Instead of leadership vision, we are told what to do with $2,500,000,000 in the COMPLETE absence of leadership vision. I don’t like that.
Two major improvements to this Bond could be, the addition of the 155,558 square foot abandoned CMS Education Center that has been empty for 12 years and hardening our schools. The Education Center Building has excellent parking, is accessible by public transportation, and is equivalent to over 155 classrooms in space. It is awful that this sat empty for 12 years and that should be changed. We also need to make our schools safer with this Bond package.
What should the school board do to increase academic achievement for all students? Are there additional measures that should be taken for the groups and/or schools that are farthest behind?
The School Board needs to change its own culture first. For instance, meeting at target schools in need of additional resources to achieve our community's goals would be a good start in the Board being less pampered at the meetings.
Also, anything that is not required to be on the agenda needs to be handled at the staff level until we get control of the emergencies that have gone unresolved for too long! Board time is too precious to be spent on issues other than our top priorities.
The Board needs to focus on making schools safer and improving academic performance WHERE IT COUNTS with a laser focus on the problem areas and providing the necessary solutions to bring the performance up. I am against lowing academic goals at the school board level.
What should the school board do to ensure school safety?
The school board should ensure that the Bond package has hardening (making more protective) of our schools as a renovation line item in the Bond that results in all schools receiving updates for security purposes after a proper evaluation has been made to determine what is best possible updates on a campus by campus basis. I have used weapons detectors in schools since the 1990's and find the deterrence a good insurance policy in my case.
What should the board do to recruit and retain teachers and support staff?
CMS needs to develop leadership skills that value teachers and support staff and that show teachers they are valued through nurturing their talents. Pay increases are in large part not in the control of the Board of Education, the money is just not there. So that means CMS needs to be more in touch with leadership approach, meaningful helpful policies, engaging the community where volunteer efforts can be helpful and the provision of meaningful professional development training and advancement for teachers. Having a good relationship with the County only helps in this regard.
What should the school board do to create effective, stable leadership in the district?
The first step is a RESET at the Board of Education level. A cultural overhaul. The school board itself has to show community leadership before the community or CMS staff can expect the school district to show leadership itself.
Once the school board itself has started fresh, realigned and streamlined then the direction of the board during meetings will be much more helpful to the executive staff in the execution of their mission of running the school system.
We have to CHANGE the SCHOOL BOARD FIRST to CHANGE CMS!
Why should voters choose you from a 14-person slate for an at-large board seat?
I have provided safety and support services and training to K12 schools and their leadership helping make school safe for children and staff since 1990. I have served as an award winning member of USEPA National Faculty in the USEPA Tools for Schools program providing training and classes for School Board Members and executives around the United States.
I have solved chronic problems inside CMS schools that changed how CMS builds schools. I got people off of antibiotics in their classrooms by caring enough to make it happen. I earned awards for teaching school districts from coast-to-coast how to make schools more productive and how to identify problems that impede the education process.
I want the best CMS has to give made available to all CMS children and families. And I want ALL CMS families and children respected and made to feel at home anytime they are interfacing with, or at, CMS. I, Brian Kasher, am asking to be your VOTE FOR CHANGE on the SCHOOL BOARD.
Visit www.VoteBrianKasher.com for more info on me, my beliefs, and what I want to see our school system doing to improve performance.
PEGGY A. CAPEHART
Capehart has not responded.
Occupation:
Business Consultant & Minister
Involvement with the school district (employment, kids in the system, volunteer, appointed or elected roles):
Parent
Political experience:
N/A
Education and/or political advocacy groups you’re affiliated with:
None at this time
Other relevant experience:
I have worked in the corporate space, non-profit space, as well as own my own business. I have had to create policy that impacts a multiplicity of people. As a Doctoral Candidate in Strategic Leadership I have amassed the necessary skills that will provide expertise in governance, collaboration, and operational excellence.
Political affiliation:
Democrat
Do you support the $2.5 billion school bond on the ballot? Why or why not?
While I believe schools need to be revitalized, rebuilt, and remodeled, I cannot in good conscience support the $2.5B bond package at this time. The current bond package will cause a yearly tax increase on Mecklenburg County's most economically vulnerable populations. Statistics show most families are living paycheck to paycheck. Right now is not the time to increase the financial burden's of the citizens of Mecklenburg County.
What should the school board do to increase academic achievement for all students? Are there additional measures that should be taken for the groups and/or schools that are farthest behind?
When we look at closing the academic achievement gap, the board is currently working to use its Student Outcome Focus Governance (SOFG) model. Now, what does that mean? Student Outcomes are the goals identify within a given period. That board will look at guardrails and frameworks that should address the gap. I believe that board should look at re-instituting a more classical education model back into the classroom. Data shows public schools that have used this model has seen an increase in academic success, an increase in SAT scores, and a decrease in behavioral issues in the classroom. Using this model will provide the groups and/or schools that are farthest behind a framework to be successful.
What should the school board do to ensure school safety?
There a number of ways the school board can create policies that will ensure and increase school safety: Create policies that will create a central reporting mechanism, active training for faculty and staff will teach them what to look for when readily assessing threats, counsel at-risk individuals, teach conflict resolution and more. Resource officers can be instrumental in teaching and/or modeling these skills in the school.
What should the board do to recruit and retain teachers and support staff?
The successful recruitment and retention of teachers and support staff boils down to what I call the "3 C's": Currency, Culture, and Community. The district has to find innovative ways to increase the financial status of teachers since the state has failed to do so. Culture: The district has a responsibility to create a culture where teachers (and staff) feel valued, heard, supported, and most importantly safe in their schools. Finally Community. The Community has to support teachers & staff by being actively involved and holding leadership accountable. Businesses and community partners have the opportunity to provide assistance to enhance teachers and staff's experience.
What should the school board do to create effective, stable leadership in the district?
First, the board has to stop the revolving door of superintendents. Historically, there have been 6 Superintendents in the last 11 years. That level of turnover cannot create stability. Next, empower the superintendent in word and actions.
Why should voters choose you from a 14-person slate for an at-large board seat?
Throughout this election cycle, you will hear many tout their historical experience but they lack expertise. Some may boast of their marketing skills but we don't need anyone making a sales pitch and providing more talking points. We have reached an inflection point where we need reform. We need change. We need someone on the board with an achievable plan. As a business owner that specializes in strategic planning and a doctoral candidate in strategic leadership/operations management, I am confident that I have the expertise necessary to provide governance and leadership on the board. I have a collaborative approach and willing to work with current board members to bring about the necessary changes that will improve student outcomes and provide a pathway to prosperity for our students. For more information about myself and my platform please connect to my website www.michael4cms.com
Occupation:
Judicial Services Coordinator
Involvement with the school district (employment, kids in the system, volunteer, appointed or elected roles):
I was formerly employed with the district and have four children go through CMS. I have two grandchildren who will attend CMS within the next 2 years and two grandchildren who are currently attending. I have been a registered volunteer in the system for many years.
Political experience:
I ran for BOE D1 unsuccessfully in 2017. I also ran for BOE At-large unsuccessfully in 2018.
Education and/or political advocacy groups you’re affiliated with:
My highest level of education is a Master’s Degree in Organizational Management and Leadership Development. I am a registered unaffiliated voter.
Other relevant experience:
I am currently a community advocate for safe schools; this is work I have been doing since 2016 after being violently assaulted by students while employed with CMS. Additionally, I served as the Education Chair with the NAACP-Charlotte Branch where after 5 years of failed efforts by others to secure a new track for Harding University High School, I was able to secure the commitment to install a new track after two meetings with CMS officials. I am the only candidate that has worked the school-to-prison pipeline. I understand why and how it happens and how to prevent this unwanted outcome.
Political affiliation:
Unaffiliated
Do you support the $2.5 billion school bond on the ballot? Why or why not?
Albright did not respond.
What should the school board do to increase academic achievement for all students? Are there additional measures that should be taken for the groups and/or schools that are farthest behind?
The person charged with closing the academic achievement gap for all is the Superintendent. The board members must set clear goals and hold the Superintendent accountable for reaching those goals. The Superintendent is the SME not the board members.
What should the school board do to ensure school safety?
To ensure school safety,, the BOE must set policy that reduces and deters acts that create unsafe academic environments. The BOE must hold the Superintendent accountable for ensuring that all policies are adhered to and the consequences for breaking policies are documented, consistent, and fair.
What should the board do to recruit and retain teachers and support staff?
Board members must put forth due diligence to ensure that CMS is a highly successful and competitive district that attracts highly qualified educators. Board members must also work to lobby legislators to include funds to increase teachers pay in annual budgets.
What should the school board do to create effective, stable leadership in the district?
Board members should first be the example of effective and stable leadership in the district. Leadership starts at the top and an organization will take on the characteristics of its leaders.
Why should voters choose you from a 14-person slate for an at-large board seat?
Voters should vote for me from a 14-person slate for an at-large seat because I have a proven track record in this city for being a strong advocate for students and parents. I possess the ability to work collaboratively with all stakeholders while doing what is needed to increase student outcomes. I will remain engaged and committed to open dialogues and transparency with constituents; even when constituents don’t agree with me, I will ensure they understand the why of decisions I make on behalf of parents and students. I am committed to being the change in leadership and governance that this district needs.
CLAIRE COVINGTON
Covington has not responded.
Occupation:
Collaborative Scientist, Lawyer, Economist, Business Coach
Involvement with the school district (employment, kids in the system, volunteer, appointed or elected roles):
I have been a proctor and volunteer for both CMS and Guilford County Schools.
Political experience:
I have run for public office before. I have not yet been elected.
Education and/or political advocacy groups you’re affiliated with:
I maintain a strict "unaffiliation" to ensure the highest standards of integrity, objectivity and effectiveness
Other relevant experience:
I am a doctoral level Scientist, Economist and now a Lawyer. I am preparing to sit for the bar to obtain my license to practice law. My interdisciplinary background is nearly unrivaled and highly beneficial to the scope of work required for school board effectiveness.
Political affiliation:
Democrat
Do you support the $2.5 billion school bond on the ballot? Why or why not?
Yes, the necessary facilities improvements and equipment replacements and the like require it.
What should the school board do to increase academic achievement for all students? Are there additional measures that should be taken for the groups and/or schools that are farthest behind?
The school board should analyze and consistently monitor academic achievement and the Superintendent must closely adhere to the reports to implement policy and curriculum, manage personnel, and add additional measures where such is deemed beneficial toward improving student outcomes for students at schools that are farthest behind.
What should the school board do to ensure school safety?
Enforce the State Action Plain for School Safety and support the School Safety Task Force
What should the board do to recruit and retain teachers and support staff?
Dr. Hill, the new CMS Superintendent, and school administrators are tasked with hiring. The board, however, can lend support in that regard through a clear plan of action and policy to ensure that curriculum goals, student outcome goals and all other working parts in the function of the school system are met. This includes group cohesion and increasing morale, which are both necessary to successfully recruit and retain and support staff.
What should the school board do to create effective, stable leadership in the district?
The board MUST employ objectivity in policy planning and enforcement and work as a unified front to improve student outcomes. The objectives thereunder serve the overarching goal of improving student outcomes. Stated above, the board should promote group cohesion and morale which will lend greatly toward effective, stable leadership
Why should voters choose you from a 14-person slate for an at-large board seat?
In addition to being the most academically qualified, my objectivity and focus on student outcomes is arguably unrivaled. It's germane to my life's work and passion. My commitment to equity in learning as a member of an intersectional group is also arguably unrivaled. I am a Black woman from the hood who achieved uncommon academic and professional feats, with a versatile background, and still humble enough to embrace continued learning to be most effective in the capacity of public service. All "dem babies" deserve quality, transformative education, and the leadership style through which I thrive is transformative.