8/31/2020 1:01:00 PM School Board Election Is Important
Wayne Howard Staff Writer
This November's General Election will include a choice of four members on the Lincoln County Board of Education. The membership of the School Board as most call it is always important--the money spent for schools is the biggest of the departmental budgets as a portion of the total County Budget.
This year, the new board, with four seats and therefore a majority up for election, will also likely decide on the new superintendent for Lincoln County Schools. Dr. Lory Morrow is retiring in October, and while Dr. Aaron Allen will take the post on an interim basis, the decision on a permanent successor will likely be made after the new board takes office in December.
In an earlier article, we looked at the candidates for District 1. This time, we're introducing those running for the District 3 seat. District 3 runs from Lincolnton northward to the county line and eastward, taking in the northern parts of Lincolnton and Ironton townships. While five of the seats on the board are allotted to district representation, everyone who votes can vote in all the races.
We asked the candidates to supply us information about themselves. The following is from the three candidates seeking the District 3 seat. The one who gets the most votes in the Nov. 3rd election--whether a majority or not--will be elected.
Kirk Herbertson
Kirk is the current District 3 representative. He was first elected to the post four years ago. In reponse to our request, he told us:
"I am running for re-election to the School Board to be a voice for the special needs kids in our school system--ADD, ADHD, down syndrome, cerebral palsy, autism, etc. I am special needs myself with high functioning autism and want to be a voice for the special needs in our schools. I know what they go through--the bullying they get, the loneliness they feel...I want to be their voice when they can't be. I am not only for them--I am for the other students as well. I am 53 years old and involved in many community activities: I am a photographer for the Lincoln Herald; I am involved with the Lincoln Theatre Guild; I am active in our church with children's ministry, choir, and various activities; I volunteer at Cardinal Healthcare in the activities department; I do clowning for special events, birthday parties, church activities...I also do photography/videography for weddings. I am willing to help anybody in any way I can. I have sung with the Olde Town Carolers and have taken voice lessons with Sandy Eldredge; I am also known as Santa's elf in the Lincolnton Christmas parade and at Santa's house at Christmas time in downtown Lincolnton.
Christina Sutton
Background: East Lincoln High School Graduate Gaston College - Associates degree in Fire Science Local business owner of North Gate Cleaning Co. Substitute teacher/cafeteria worker for Lincoln County Schools two time Lincoln County Schools Volunteer of the Year 9 years PTO service in various capacities including PTO President, Vice President, and multiple Chair positions
Why I decided to run for school board: As a Lincoln County native, wife of 20 years and mom of two Lincoln County School students (middle and high school), I understand what children need from our school system to have the best opportunity for success. I believe in public schools and the quality education that our children receive from exceptional staff members. I want to be a positive team player on the School Board whose heart is for our students and the staff that works tirelessly for their futures.
What I hope to accomplish: -Improve county relationships. -Ensure that ALL students have every opportunity for success whether choosing a trade, continuing higher education or joining the military. -Create an atmosphere that grows the best possible future leaders of Lincoln County.
Why I would be the best choice for District 3: My many years of hands-on service from the classroom to the cafeteria have provided me with a unique perspective that makes me the perfect fit for the Lincoln County School Board. I have led diverse groups to champion campaigns to raise funds for school-wide needs while building productive relationships with school administrators and staff. I'm proud of our community and the families in it and will work hard to see our children succeed.
Jason Beckley
Jason earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Financial Management from UNC-Charlotte in 2002. He returned to his alma mater and continued his education in finance by earning his Master’s Degree with a concentration in Business Finance. Jason graduated with honors in May of 2010. Having the powerful combination of both practical and classroom experience, Jason focuses on retirement planning, business planning and wealth management strategies.
"My family and I have resided in Lincolnton for the past 18 years. My wife Alicia and I are the proud parents of two daughters, Lucia and Caileigh, who are both products of Lincoln County Schools.
"I want to give back to my community as a School Board member. I will use my professional expertise, community volunteer experience, understanding of the county, and direct but respectful style to develop collaborative solutions to our big challenges. If that sounds like the kind of person you want as a School Board member, I hope you will vote for me on November 3rd."
A link to our earlier article about the District 1 candidates is posted below. We'll be posting articles about the candidates for the other seats. We hope voters will take time to learn about the candidates and make informed choices in the election. A map of the School Board districts is seen at the right; in addition to the district representatives, there are two at-large seats on the board.
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