Why me?

So, I have been trying to think of criticisms of me running for the school board. First, I think the idea of a school board being made up of members of the community is important. Schools are a reflection of the community in many ways. In turn, members of a school board should reflect the socio-economic, cultural, and social diversity of an area. However, too often, schools boards to not contain educators. In fact, according to the National School Board Association, 73% of school board members are not educators. In addition, 69% describe themselves and moderate or conservative.

Back to my original point. I am an educator (11 year classroom teacher, M.Ed. in curriculum and instruction from South Dakota State University and Ed.D. in curriculum and instruction from the University of Central Florida, and current professor of education and Augusta University), and although an independent, a liberal. I think that both of these are important to the schools of Columbia County. First, I think that my background in education will serve the district well, Second, I won't let my politics interfere with what is best for the students of Columbia County. The school board is made up of five people that vote on issues. Therefore, one voice will only enhance the conversation.

If you look across the professions, doctors are on medical boards. Lawyers are in the Bar Association. Perhaps it is time that professional educators are on the school board.
My name is Andrew Kemp. I am running for the School Board of Columbia County.