Community meets Richmond County school board candidates at forum
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - We are 11 days from election day, and in Richmond County, there are school board candidates on the ballot.
The community had a chance to meet these candidates at a forum on Thursday night.
We have more on these candidates and what their priorities are if elected.
School board candidates are bringing urgency to the conversation of what needs to be done.
District 4 candidate, Shontae Boyd, says it’s all about pushing for higher education.
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“I do not feel like we should cut any corners when it comes to giving our kids a good education. Our school district has made great strides within the last few years and with my background, I know I can take us to the next level,” said Boyd.
Candidates like Reginald Forest, District 4 candidate, said he will focus on bringing ability to students and staff.
“Educational excellence in every school is a big ecosystem. It involves everybody from the custodian staff, bus drivers, students and everyone and in between,” said Forrest.
District 5 candidate Monique Braswell says her priority is standing up for policies that are best for students.
“I’m not afraid to stand up to the big guy when it comes down to these children. Children matter to me,” said Braswell.
Another District 5 candidate, Christopher Mulliens, says positive change starts with mentorship.
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“I see how our young kids need us. They want that representation. They want somebody young who looks like them,” said Mulliens. “And I have been resilient about making sure I stay in the community and making sure we are partnering with organizations to do things for kids that they may not have access to in the school system.”
District 8 candidate Dr. Onnie Poe says it is also about bringing awareness to problems so people don’t fall between the gaps.
“Gaps occur when there is no fluidity in communication. When we are not really hearing what happening from all the voices together, and unless we address this our students, teachers and families will continue to fall through the gaps,” said Poe.
District 10 candidate Samantha Valentine says she will bring transparency to the table.
“It is very important that we are transparent about what is going on with our fiscal money because if we can’t talk about it then parents will be a little anxious and worry about what’s going on,” she said.
It’s four seats on the table that will represent the future of Richmond County schools.
It’s up to you to vote who.
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