What inspired you to get involved in the school board, and what drives your passion for education?
I was a PTA father and I was always interested in providing a better public education than what I received. I want to provide high-quality education for all children.
Can you share a specific experience or project from your time as a school board member that has been particularly rewarding or memorable for you?
My 12+ years as a board member have been very rewarding. All projects, budgets, negotiations, graduations, school visits, etc. have been amazing and humbling. Recently, I was involved with seeing a HVAC system emergency overhaul from start to finish with weekly office hours at the school, monthly Public Building Commission meetings, Town Council Meetings, Capital Improvement Projects meetings, led to a successful emergency project over the past 14 months.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a school board member, and how have you worked to overcome them?
Civility and collaboration are my board room cornerstones but political tribalism interferes constantly. I work hard to avoid party -line votes even at the harm of my standing within my own party. I'm here for the children and not a party. I continue to be present in the community, schools, and town meetings to advocate for public education.
What are some goals or initiatives you are currently working on in your local school district?
Working on proposing a 10-year plan for our town's 400th anniversary. We need to replace all aging schools and looking to prepare children with global economy skills.
What's your “superpower” (can be in or outside of the boardroom)?
Protective and never being outworked.
What was your first (or most memorable) NSBA event (AC, CUBE, ES, SLS , or AI etc.) and what made it memorable?
My first NBSA board meeting as an elected Director. The gravity of the responsibility was awesome and fuels me today. I get to speak for every child in the country regarding public education.
Outside of your role on the school board, what are some of your interests or hobbies that people might not know about? Or a “fun fact” you would like to share?
I'm a proud Sigma man (Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.), I love playing competitive slo-pitch softball (37 years and counting), and I'm striving to be the first black chief officer with my town's 194 year old VFD. I also enjoy investing.