Meet the Candidates
In the upcoming General Election on November 5, 2024, citizens will have the opportunity to vote on three seats of the Richland School District Two Board of Trustees.
Meet the Board of Trustees 2024 Candidates
The responses below were provided directly by the school board candidates and have not been edited or altered by district staff.
If you are a write-in candidate or a petition candidate and would like to submit responses, please email Georgette Council at gcouncil@richland2.org
- Dr. Brenda B. Branic
- Franklin Davis
- Gary Dennis
- Dr. Monica Elkins
- Dionne Fleshman
- Lashonda McFadden
- James Mobley
- Brett Porterfield
- Larry J. Smalls
- Shelley Williams
Dr. Brenda B. Branic
Education: Ph.D in Business Management and Leadership
Occupation: Owner Operator of B Branic Coaching and Consulting. Senior Vice President - Executive Project Manager with Optus Bank.
Community involvement: Coordinated and participated in numerous volunteer projects: MLK giveback day, Feeding the Homeless, Girl Scouts of America, God’s Store House, Sister Care speaker's Bureau, City Year Columbia Board Member; Director Scholarship Service Edgewood Foundation 2008 - present – President Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc, (Columbia SC Alumnae chapter July 2015 – June 2019), Member Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc 2000 – present, Board Member Friends Richland Library (2015- 2021) Board member Edgewood Foundation (2015 – present), Board member Delta House Inc (2008 – 2012 and 2022 - present). Appointed by County Council as a Trustee for the Richland Library Board 2021-2026. Served as the NPHC representative for Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Columbia SC Alumnae 2012 – present; held the positions of Sargent at Arms, Treasurer, Financial Secretary, Vice President, President, Chair of Finance Committee, and Chair of the Social Action Committee. Elections Commission voter clerk and poll manager 2019 - present. Soles4Souls project coordinator. NAACP member
The experiences or skills that I bring to the Richland District Two School Board: Brenda B. Branic, PhD, MBA, owner operator of B Branic Coaching and Consulting, holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Business Management and Leadership, a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) and Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Employed in the banking and insurance industries for over 35 years she has held numerous leadership and management positions that enhanced her professional prowess. Brenda has served on a plethora of non-profit boards. While a Board member for City Year Columbia, she was awarded the coveted red jacket for her tenure and loyal service. Dr. Branic also served on the boards for Palmetto Hospice of Palmetto Richland Hospital, Girls Inc Columbia, Delta House Inc, The Edgewood Foundation, and Richland Library Friends and Foundation where she served as Chair, Vice Chair and Treasurer. Dr. Branic has been instrumental in securing funding, recruiting board members, planning, coordinating, and implementing workshops that enhanced the board member’s knowledge of nonprofits and the community at large and working to strengthen partnerships and programs. As the result of her untiring efforts, Dr. Branic was named the United Way of the Midlands 2020 volunteer. She was appointed by Richland County Council to serve as a member of the Richland Library Board of Trustees where is currently the board Vice Chair. Her passion is customer service and assisting professionals with realizing their full potential through self-actualization. A certified trainer for the world-renowned Myers Briggs Foundation. Dr. Branic reinforces the importance of truly knowing oneself with one-on-one personal assessments. She enjoys individual assessments as well as team building and group facilitation. Dr. Branic earned her Diversity Equity and Inclusion certification from Cornell University which affords her the opportunity to facilitate a myriad of workshops, serve as keynote speaker for various occasions, and conduct business analyses.
My stance on ensuring that the district's budget is spent responsibly and in ways that directly benefit students: Review of all streams of income and budget request will be analyzed to ensure equitable distribution of funds. All schools do not need the same assistance simultaneously. I would work with the fellow board members, the Superintendent, CFO and finance team to review budgetary request. We will give proper consideration to critical needs as well as desires. The needs will outweigh the wants. I would like to review historical data in support of budget requests and determine what the best use of funds are. Formulating partnerships with the district foundation, local businesses, and other like minded foundations will help alleviate stressors on the budget.
I'm motivated to want to run for the Richland Two Board of Trustees because: My why is a better, bolder, brighter future for the students. It is important to know all students are treated with dignity and respect regardless of his or her social economic status. Having a district where all students may thrive in an atmosphere that fosters a safe space for all involved is critical to the successful transition of life after K-12. Richland School District Two service area is experiencing exponential growth. My priorities will assist with meeting the moment of growth by producing highly educated adults who will flourish and become productive members of society fueled by meaningful community partnerships, highly functioning administrators, teachers, classified employees and Board members whose desire is to support them and their growth. I would love to boast that our district is the BEST in the state. With future focused leadership, I know we can make that happen. My daughter is a product of Richland School District Two, and my three grandbabies are matriculating through Richland School District Two. I have been an active member of this community for over 25 years and I would like to become a long-term board member with a promise to represent the district in this role with civility and dignity.
Franklin Davis
Education: Master’s in Education
Occupation: As of May 2024, I have retired from teaching after spending the last 25 years in Richland School District 2.
Community involvement: My community involvement included attending events such as student theater productions, choir performances, band and orchestra concerts, and sporting events. I was on the SIC at Pontiac Elementary School for three years as well as three years on Summit Parkway SIC. I was a football booster and involved in many mentoring programs. Also, when I show interest in students' lives and attend their games and concerts, they'll know I care. Attending and participating in events also allows me to interact with parents in a non-threatening and positive environment.
The experiences or skills that I bring to the Richland District Two School Board: I would come to the board with a clear focus on student achievement and supporting our teachers. I have taught End of Course classes, which affect the schools’ report cards. I can advise the board on how rigorous those courses are and the resources that are needed to help our teachers increase rigor in their classes, which will lead to higher test scores. The board needs to be more present in the schools. We must visit and go to the classrooms and see what our teachers are dealing with. How can you create policy and provide support when you have no idea what teachers are dealing with? If elected, I would be able to help board members understand what goes on in a class and what they see when they visit the schools.
My stance on ensuring that the district's budget is spent responsibly and in ways that directly benefit students: By understanding the district’s financial objectives and priorities, I would look for ways to ensure that the available funds we have, will do the most for our students. We have to explore different options using student data to help the board become successful in reaching its stated goal of student improvement across the district.
I'm motivated to want to run for the Richland Two Board of Trustees because: Upon retirement, I was so honored by my colleagues who suggested I run for our local school board. I strongly desire to see positive educational outcomes for all our students. As a school board member, I would work tirelessly to ensure that the district continues to offer high-level education to all students.
Gary Dennis
Education: College of the Air Force: Applied Science Aviation Maintenance Technology
Occupation: I am a retired U.S. Air Force veteran and now a local REALTOR®, owning and operating Gary Dennis REALTOR® / Veteran Powered by Fathom Realty SC.
Community involvement: Since retiring from the military in 2018, I have been actively involved in various community roles. I have currently serve as the President, 15U Coach, Past 12U Coach, and Umpire for the Dentsville Youth Baseball League. Additionally, I held leadership positions as the Secretary and Vice President of the Round Top Elementary School Improvement Council from 2022-2024 and was the Past PTO President at Lonnie B. Nelson Elementary. I have also contributed as a Past Member of both the Richland Two Cell Phone Tower Committee and the Richland Two Parent Advisory Council. In the real estate sector, I was a member and Chairman of the Central Carolina REALTOR® Association Political Action Committee (RPAC), and I served as the Vice Chair and Past Member of the Richland County Planning Commission. Beyond these roles, I have made various donations to school PTOs, libraries, and supported local animal shelters through fundraising. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I also stepped in as a substitute teacher for Richland Two to help address teacher shortages.
The experiences or skills that I bring to the Richland District Two School Board: My diverse experiences and skills have uniquely prepared me to serve as a member of the Richland Two School Board. With 20 years of service in the U.S. Air Force, I’ve developed a strong foundation in leadership, discipline, and problem-solving, equipping me to navigate complex challenges and make thoughtful, well-considered decisions under pressure—essential qualities for a school board member. My experience living and working in Europe and Asia has further enhanced my ability to collaborate with individuals from diverse cultures and backgrounds, fostering inclusivity and understanding, which is crucial when serving a community as varied as Richland Two. As a parent with two children currently attending Richland Two schools, I have a personal connection to the concerns and needs of district families. This firsthand experience drives my commitment to advocating for policies that prioritize student safety, academic excellence, and transparency in the district’s decision-making processes. Beyond being a parent, I’ve committed myself to community involvement by serving as President and coach in the Dentsville Youth Baseball League, as well as holding leadership positions in school councils and PTOs. These roles have allowed me to work closely with parents, educators, and community leaders to enhance educational opportunities and support for our children. Additionally, my involvement in educational policy and district committees, including my service as Secretary and Vice President of the Round Top Elementary School Improvement Council and participation in the Richland Two Parent Advisory Council and the Cell Phone Tower Committee, has deepened my understanding of how the district operates. This experience enables me to contribute meaningfully to board discussions and initiatives. As a REALTOR® and successful businessman, I bring strong financial management and organizational skills to the school board. My work with the Central Carolina REALTOR® Association Political Action Committee (RPAC) and as Vice Chair of the Richland County Planning Commission has further honed my ability to manage budgets and navigate regulations, critical elements of responsible governance. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I stepped in as a substitute teacher to help address staffing shortages, further reinforcing my commitment to supporting our schools. My focus on student safety, a key issue in my campaign, is rooted in both personal experience and a deep dedication to creating secure and supportive learning environments for every student. Together, these experiences and skills give me a well-rounded perspective, enabling me to advocate effectively for students, families, and educators while promoting transparency, safety, and academic success in the Richland Two School District. Moreover, as a retired individual and business owner, I have the time and flexibility to fully dedicate myself to the responsibilities of this role, ensuring that the work is done right the first time.
My stance on ensuring that the district's budget is spent responsibly and in ways that directly benefit students: To ensure the district’s budget is spent responsibly and directly benefits students and teachers, I will focus on several key strategies. First, I will advocate for increased transparency and accountability in the budget process. This means making sure that all spending decisions are communicated clearly to the public and that parents, teachers, and community members have opportunities to provide input. Regular financial reports and audits will also be essential in tracking spending and identifying areas where resources could be used more efficiently. I will also prioritize directing funds toward classroom resources and programs that have a direct impact on student success. This includes ensuring that students have access to up-to-date textbooks, technology, and supplies, and that schools provide safe, conducive learning environments. I’ll work to make sure teachers have the necessary tools and materials to be effective in their roles. Another key area of focus will be supporting competitive compensation for teachers and staff to attract and retain high-quality educators. Ensuring teachers are well-compensated is critical for maintaining a strong, dedicated workforce that can effectively educate our students. Lastly, I will push for targeted funding to support programs that address students' specific needs, such as mental health services, special education, and extracurricular activities, which are vital to providing a well-rounded education. By focusing on these areas, I aim to ensure the district’s budget is managed responsibly and that financial decisions are made with the direct benefit of students and teachers in mind.
I'm motivated to want to run for the Richland Two Board of Trustees because: What motivates me to run for the Richland Two Board of Trustees is my deep rooted commitment to ensuring that every child in our district has access to a safe, high quality education. As a parent of two children currently attending Richland Two schools, I have a personal stake in the success of our students and firsthand experience with the challenges that families, educators, and students face on a daily basis. I want to advocate for policies that prioritize student safety, academic excellence, and transparency to ensure that the district’s decisions benefit all students. My wife, who works as a reading interventionist in the district, and many of our friends are also part of the Richland Two community. This connection gives me a unique sense of responsibility to advocate for the best outcomes for our children, educators, and families. Through my experiences, I’ve come to understand the struggles faced by both military and non-military families, and this perspective fuels my dedication to serving and supporting the community. Additionally, my military background has instilled in me a strong sense of duty and service. I want to bring that responsibility to the school board, ensuring that resources are used effectively and that decisions are made with the best interests of students, teachers, and families at heart. My motivation is driven by a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the district, fostering an environment where every child can thrive academically and personally. Running for the Richland Two Board of Trustees allows me to leverage my experience, skills, and passion to strengthen our schools, advocate for safety and transparency, and support our teachers in providing the best possible education to our students. Furthermore, as a retired individual and business owner, I have the time and flexibility needed to fully dedicate myself to the responsibilities of this role and to ensure the work is done right the first time.
Dr. Monica Elkins
Education: an Ed. D in Educational Leadership and School Administration Doctorate Degree
Occupation: I am a retired school principal. Currently, I am self employed as a National Professional Development Trainer where I provide training to school staff, students and parents in Restorative Practices, Classroom Management, Conflict Resolution and Curriculum and Instruction
Community involvement: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc Eastern Star Life Member- VFW Ladies Auxiliary Post #4262 Court Appointed- Guardian ad litem Volunteer- Richland County Sheriff's Department-Youth Arbitration Program Life Member- NAACP South Carolina Schools Board Association (SCASA) South Carolina Association for School Administrators (SCASA) Richland County Education Association-, Retired (RCEA-R)
The experiences or skills that I bring to the Richland District Two School Board: Currently, I serve as the Chairwoman on the school board and with the most years of experience (12 years on the school board). I have served as a teacher and school principal with 30+ years of experience in public education. I have served as a teacher and school principal with 30+ years of experience in public education. Also, I've had the opportunity to teach at the collegiate level; USC Upstate- Classroom Management to student teachers. Columbia College- Masters Program In Learning Styles to Veteran Classroom teachers. Basically, I love working with children and growing teachers to their fullest potential. Therefore, education is embedded in my DNA from my childhood to a lifetime.
My stance on ensuring that the district's budget is spent responsibly and in ways that directly benefit students: I will continue to ensure that we approve a budget that includes student academic programs, classroom instructional materials and resources. As well as the budget on school safety. Students preform at their fullest potential when they are comfortable and feel safe. As well as the budget on school safety. Students preform at their best when they feel comfortable and safe.
I'm motivated to want to run for the Richland Two Board of Trustees because: I love and believe in all children. Therefore, I want to be an advocate to ensure that students are fully supported and prepared for their future after high school. (College, Military or the Workplace. Nevertheless, I am a teacher at heart who has boots on the ground. Therefore, I will be a voice for teachers to ensure that they are treated like professionals, advocate for higher salary, uninterrupted planning periods, etc. Also, I started my career as an Instructional Assistant, therefore I know that Classified and Support staff(bus drivers, cafeteria workers, etc) are our front line employees and deserve to have a voice at the table (That’s me) Finally, it's so important to support parents. I know the power of a strong and positive partnership with parents; who are the First Teachers to our students. It increases student achievement and decreases student discipline.
Dionne Fleshman
Education: Masters of Business Administration, Mercer University
Occupation: President & CEO, The DESA Group, Inc.
Community involvement:
Richland / Lexington Disabilities and Special Needs, Member then Board Chair, 2021-Present Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, Member, 1994-Present South Carolina Alzheimer's Association, Ride to End ALZ, Ride Ambassador, 2022-2024 Green view Dolphin Swim Team, Member then Board Member, 2021-2023 Palmetto Cycling Coalition, Board Member, 2018-2019 March of Dimes of the Midlands, Board Member, 2016-2017 Communities in Schools (CIS) of the Midlands, Board Member, 2013-2016 South Carolina Education Policy Fellow, 2008-2009 Leadership Columbia, 2007 Leadership South Carolina, 2008 Society of Human Resources Management, Member Human Resources Certification Institute, Member
The experiences or skills that I bring to the Richland District Two School Board: Parent of Academically Gifted and Academically Challenged sons, Graduate of Spring Valley high School, Business owner since 2007, Human Resource Professional certification, Project Management Certification and a Desire to Improve the educational life of all students in Richland District 2
My stance on ensuring that the district's budget is spent responsibly and in ways that directly benefit students: Constant review of all expenditures, allocations and requests for funds. Questioning how money is spent and analyzing how the money is spent compared to the needs and expenses of the students
I'm motivated to want to run for the Richland Two Board of Trustees because: I am running to Improve the Educational Life of all students in Richland 2, the academically gifted, the middle of the road and the academically challenged student.
Lashonda McFadden
Education: Masters of Public Administration- pend; University of South Carolina Columbia, South Carolina Bachelor of Arts: Political Science Business Administration East Tennessee State University Johnson City, Tennessee Masters of Public Administration- pend; University of South Carolina Columbia, South Carolina Bachelor of Arts: Political Science Business Administration East Tennessee State University Johnson City, Tennessee
Occupation: Administrative Specialist, Prisma Health- Midlands
Community involvement: Bibleway Church Atlas Road Member & Volunteer (2008-present) Spring Valley High School Cheer and Band Mom (2018- present) Richland County (CRC) Greater Columbia Community Relations Council (2017-2020) LIFE2: Educational Summit (2024)
The experiences or skills that I bring to the Richland District Two School Board: Richland School District Two Board Member (2020- present) -Board Secretary, 2024 Fiscal Year -Legislative Committee Chair 2023-2024 Member 2021-2022, 2023-2024 -Safety and Security Committee Vice Chair 2023-2024 Member 2022-2023, 2023-2024 South Carolina School Board Association (2020-present) -Board Legislative Contact 2.0 2023-2024 -Delegate, Legislation Advocate 2021, 2022, 2023 South Carolina School Improvement Council, District Representative -Spring Valley High School SIC -Lonnie B. Nelson Elementary School SIC Palmetto Health Community Improvement Department -Community Advocate -Teen Talk Behavioral Instructor Washington County Department of Health and Human Services -Social Counselor 2 -HUGS Nurse (Help Us Grow Successfully) -Families First Coordinator
My stance on ensuring that the district's budget is spent responsibly and in ways that directly benefit students: I will continue to review our annual audit reports and monitor the district budget. I have also incorporated using the new South Carolina Revenue and Fiscal Affairs Office, Education Funding Dashboard. The Richland Two Board of Trustees, was able to approve the 2024-2025 fiscal budget with a zero millage tax increase. We funded over 90% of the superintendent’s request and priorities. We were able to accommodate our annual variance of $15M, by allocating $5M per year for three consecutive years. This ensures that funds are available to maintain teacher’s salaries and current programs. Since my tenure as a member of the Richland Two Board of Trustees, we have not increased taxes. We have approved the annual budget with zero mill tax increase. The board approved initiatives from the Richland Two Chiefs of Staff departmental goals. -The Operations Department efficiently spent the funds in our 2018 Bond Referendum to build and renovate our schools with safety features and other technological innovations, such as metal detectors. -The Academic Department presented favorable accountability documents for the ESSER funds (Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief) which was approved by the board. -The Human Resource department was able to adjust the teacher salaries above state minimum requirements and align classified employees salaries with market trends. - The Finance Department implemented the state procurement policy after the board’s vote of approval and diligently cooperates with all other departments to ensure fiscal accountability. -The Office of the Superintendent and Deputy Superintendent submitted the updated Five-Year District Strategic Plan. This document guides our district and includes our mission, vision, and goals while highlighting our academic and budget priorities. The board approved the District Strategic Plan. I will ensure the district’s budget is spent responsibly by continuing to review, monitor, and approve departmental expenditures.
I'm motivated to want to run for the Richland Two Board of Trustees because: Richland Two is a dynamic suburban community. The demographics, population, and infrastructure are changing drastically and swiftly. It is my belief, that if you want to change a nation, you teach the children. Our communities are changing and so are the needs. There was a great industrial boom in the late 1800s/ early 1990s. After WWII, suburban communities were established all over America. Men were home from war and were eager to grasp the American Dream. Production of small appliances, refrigerators, washer & dryers, and television kept employment rates high and the community growing. Construction workers, plumbers, and electricians were needed for homes and the skyscrapers being built from the east coast to the west. After 100 years, those buildings are now dilapidated and need to be demolished or renovated. There has been a massive introduction of technology resulting in the need to reconfigure our electrical systems. Recognizing where we are as a society and seeing the direction the community wants to go is the main role of a board member. The students we educate should be able to perform on a global scale. However, it is our desire to educate students who want to come back to our community and invest their purpose, talents, gifts, and passions into this area. Our culture has shifted to a digital age. Programs with Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Computer Science, and Information Technology have grown over the past few years. Trades like Construction, Electrical, Automotive, Plumbing, and Engineering are making a major comeback. This collision of old and new is reflecting in our society. The combining of these elements are sure to prove beneficial to the everyday life of citizens. College is important but not necessary or applicable for all journeys of life. I will to continue to support academic success in higher education for our future teachers, business owners, doctors, lawyers, administrators, and political scientists. As a transplant, to this community, my family is proud to call Richland County, Columbia, South Carolina our home. We had the opportunity to choose where to spend the rest of our lives and we chose the northeast area of Richland County. I want to continue to ‘Collaborate and Cooperate’ with parents, teacher, business owners, citizens, and other government leaders, to help the children in our community love each stage of their life as they grow to become essential members of our community.
James Mobley
Brett Porterfield
Education: Coastal Carolina University-Bachelor of Arts in History, 2007
Occupation: I.T. Infrastructure Manager - Blanchard Machinery Company
Community involvement: Deacon - Zion Pilgrim Baptist Church- Arthurtown Community Mentor - Develop Carolina Life Member - Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity,Inc Recording Secretary - National Pan Hellenic Council at Columbia, SC Secretary- National Baptist Deacons Convention - Region 1 Past State Director -Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity,Inc - South Carolina
The experiences or skills that I bring to the Richland District Two School Board: Professionally, I am a trained project manager and facilitator. I have served on over 10 boards over 17 years serving as a staff officer, committee chair, and president. I am currently the chairman of the Coastal Carolina University- Edwards College Board of Visitors. I am also the chairman of the Divine Nine Foundation of Columbia, SC. I have written and developed constitutions and Bylaws, board policies, budgets and standard operating procedures.
My stance on ensuring that the district's budget is spent responsibly and in ways that directly benefit students: As a board and/or the finance committee, we should be developing and maintaining a detailed and transparent budgeting process. We should work to align fiscal responsibilities with the district’s strategic goals and conduct regular, independent audits that assess accuracy and compliance. Our financial goals should directly align to supporting the educational mission of supporting our students.
I'm motivated to want to run for the Richland Two Board of Trustees because:
I am passionate about Richland School District 2 and our children. I am service minded, solutions oriented and driven to achieve the best possible outcomes. By electing me to the school board, the community gains a champion for public education. I will serve knowing that it is not about self but the continuation of the success of our students. My modus operandi has always been to seek a deep understanding of an institution’s culture and then to help build or strengthen that culture. And that is my vision for R2.
Larry J. Smalls
Education: Benedict College Computer Science; Midlands Tech Accounting.
Occupation: Senior Loan Officer/ Personal Banker; Palmetto Citizens FCU.
Community involvement: Life Group leader; Grace Life Church; Legislative committee RCSD2; Emerging leaders and Education committee; Palmetto Citizens.
The experiences or skills that I bring to the Richland District Two School Board: Extensive financial background (22 years); management experience (bank and finance); held leadership positions; good interpersonal communication skills; adept in public speaking.
My stance on ensuring that the district's budget is spent responsibly and in ways that directly benefit students: Providing oversight as well as continuous collaboration with the chief financial officer; reviewing financial reports to ensure accurate accounting as well as weighing in on budget drafts to ensure that the budget reflects the needs of the community. Financial transparency.
I'm motivated to want to run for the Richland Two Board of Trustees because: To provide a viable education for our students in order improve student outcomes; improve test scores; provide a safe environment for learning, and to insure financial investment capabilities for our classrooms. Also I'm a parent with two kids in the district.
Shelley Williams
Education: Masters +30 Educational Administration and Leadership (K-12)
Occupation: Office of Special Services Instructional Coach
Community involvement: Richland Two Education Foundation CFI Family Advisory Board Former Richland Two Charter High School Chair Junior League of Columbia Girl Scouts Columbia Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
The experiences or skills that I bring to the Richland District Two School Board: I bring a wealth of experience and skills that position me to serve effectively as a Richland Two board member. As an educator with over a decade of experience, I understand the challenges facing our schools firsthand. I am Gifted and Talented endorsed, Read to Succeed certified teacher and coach, and have worked as a literacy coach, which has given me deep insights into curriculum, instruction, and student support. Additionally, my leadership roles as former Chair of the Richland Two Charter High School Board and a member of the Richland Two Education Foundation have provided valuable experience in managing budgets and overseeing district policies. I am also skilled at building relationships and partnerships within the community, which is essential for fostering collaboration and supporting district initiatives. These experiences, combined with my passion for education and advocacy for all students, make me well-equipped to serve on the Richland Two School Board.
My stance on ensuring that the district's budget is spent responsibly and in ways that directly benefit students: To ensure the district’s budget is spent responsibly and in ways that directly benefit students, I would prioritize the following strategies: 1. Focus on Student-Centered Spending: Direct funds toward initiatives that have a proven impact on student learning, such as classroom resources, technology, and support services. 2. Regular Program Assessments: Continuously evaluate programs to ensure they are effective and delivering value. Programs that aren’t benefiting students should be restructured or eliminated to free up resources for more impactful initiatives. 3. Transparent Budgeting: Advocate for an open, transparent budgeting process where the community, educators, and stakeholders have input. This ensures accountability and that financial decisions are made with students’ best interests in mind. 4. Efficient Use of Resources: Ensure operational efficiency by identifying areas where costs can be reduced without affecting classroom instruction. 5. Long-Term Planning: Focus on long-term fiscal sustainability to avoid short-term fixes that may lead to larger issues. Responsible financial planning will ensure consistent support for student achievement over time. By emphasizing student-focused investments and maintaining transparency and accountability, I will ensure that every dollar is spent with the goal of enhancing education for all students in Richland Two.
I'm motivated to want to run for the Richland Two Board of Trustees because: I am motivated to run for the Richland Two School Board of Trustees because I am passionate about ensuring all students have access to a high-quality education that meets their diverse needs. As an educator, parent, and advocate, I understand the pivotal role schools play in shaping the future of our children and community. I also deeply value the contributions of teachers and am committed to supporting and empowering them with the resources and respect they need to thrive. Additionally, I see the importance of connecting our schools with local businesses to help students gain the skills necessary for future employment. By strengthening partnerships with the business community, we can ensure that capable students are prepared for careers right out of high school, helping to bridge the gap between education and the workforce. My commitment to equity, fiscal responsibility, and community engagement will help ensure that both students and teachers are set up for success.
Richland School District Two Board Candidate Forum
Election Day is November 5, 2024. Richland School District Two will have three seats available on the school board. There are ten candidates running to fill those seats. Who will be selected to help govern our district? That is your decision. Here is an opportunity for you to gain information about the candidates before you vote. Tune in October 1, 2024 for this livestream event to learn first-hand the the vision of those looking to govern our district. Then please go out and vote!
Need to register to vote?
Here are the deadlines:
- Register online at scVOTES.gov before midnight, Monday, October 14 (requires SC Driver’s License or DMV ID Card).
- Download a voter registration form from scVOTES.gov. Complete and return the form to your county voter registration office:
- By fax (must be received before midnight, Monday, October 14).
- By email attachment (must be received before midnight, Monday, October 14).
- By mail (must be postmarked by Monday, October 14).
- Register in person at your county voter registration office. Most offices will close at 5:00 p.m. on Monday, October 14 for in-office registrations. Check locally for specific hours.
Upcoming Meetings
Board Policies Related to Campaigning
Policy GBI Staff Participation in Political Activities
In connection with campaigning and/or holding public office an employee must not do the following:
- Use school system facilities, equipment, or supplies
- Discuss their campaign with district personnel, students, parents/guardians, or citizens during normal work hours
- Use any time during normal work hours for campaigning purposes, either through his/her own activities or through the activities of a colleague
Policy KHE Political Solicitations in Schools
The board prohibits campaigning in schools by individual candidates or parties for municipal, school board, county, state, or federal elections with the following exceptions:
- Schools may organize all-candidate forums for educational purposes.
- School space may be rented after school hours by a candidate or party on a commercial basis.
The board prohibits the posting or distributing of campaign materials associated with elections on district property with these exceptions:
- Campaign materials may be posted and distributed in that part of a school rented for a campaign meeting or being used for an all-candidate forum. However, all political materials must be removed from school premises at the end of any such meeting.
- Campaign materials may be used as classroom teaching aids when approved by the principal and on the condition that support for an individual or political party is not solicited.