With a little more than a month before general elections, the Liberty County Board of Education is gearing up for its races Nov. 4 with candidates vying for three open seats.
Superintendent Dr. Judy Scherer said being informed about school board candidates and participating in the election is important to the county because board members and their decisions directly effect the education of the county's youth.
"We want people with integrity, a heart for kids, and basic principles like honesty," Scherer said. "My goal is to have people who are dedicated to education and children of the community."
However, with the financial crisis impacting the Georgia schools, there are added challenges for those looking to uphold and improve the county's education system and future goals.
"The big issue is going to be budget cuts from the state," Scherer said. "And how to best utilize these funds for every student."
She said other issues include how to plan and deal with enrollment growth and how to complete school renovations, in particular the renovations of Bradwell Institute and the completion of Liberty County High's new Donell Woods Stadium.
Despite a long list of things to do and consider, Scherer said her main focus — and hopefully that of future board members — remains on student education.
"Continuing to improve student achievement is our number one goal," the superintendent said.
Open school board seats include the seat for District 1, for which Verdell Jones is running unopposed as incumbent Mattie Hicks opted to not to run after serving 22 years. The race for the District 2 seat is between Carolyn Smith Carter and incumbent Charlie J. Frasier. The race for the District 3 seat is between Marcus Scott IV and incumbent Carol Guyett.
No board of education candidate forums have been announced.