MPS School Board Candidate Forum
Montgomery residents head to the polls next week. Voters in District Four and Seven will choose who they want to represent them on the school board.
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Montgomery County District Seven candidates tell what they bring to the table when it comes to serving on the board.
Arica Watkins-Smith says, “We know that in the district, our children need more exposure so they can be engaged in the learning process. Kinda like learning without walls, making sure there are more hands-on opportunity.”
Phyllis Harvey Hall wants to get schools in her district off the failing schools list.
“I would like to be that bridge to help bring change where we can restructure without having to give up our schools and communities,” said Harvey-Hall.
Roberta Collins was appointed to replace the late Beverly Ross on the board last year. And she would like to keep her seat.
“I have such a love for the students after I have taught nearly 40 years in the classroom. So, as I said before, I want to continue this quest for the students in MPS because this is something I really love,” said Collins.
As for the District Four race, there are issues candidates want to address as well.
“I’ve been on the board for 10 years and I feel like we have a lot to accomplish and a lot of things to finish. And I’m not a quitter, so I’m here to see it to the end,” said Incumbent Mary Briers.
Michael Cheatam wants to improve test scores.
“Working at the university, I am able to see that they are not able to read up to the level that they should be. These things have to be changed,” said Cheatam.
Justin Clarke says failing schools is an important to the school board and to the citizens of Montgomery.
“One of the first things I would do is find a way for schools to be accountable,” said Clarke.
Anthony Evans is also running for District Seven. He was not able to be at the forum.
The election is March 1st.
