Hello, fellow Nature Coast Democrats and education advocates! This week, the Citrus County Democratic Women’s Club hosted a pivotal forum featuring candidates for the Citrus County School Board District 2. The gathering spotlighted Laura Gatling-Wright, Dale Merrill, and Victoria "Vickie" Smith, who shared their visions for the future of our local education system. Ken Frink is also a candidate but was unable to attend due to a separate engagement. Here's a breakdown of what went down, and my take on each candidate's stance.

Laura Gatling-Wright: A Teacher's Heart and Mother's Resolve

Laura Gatling-Wright, a lifelong Citrus County resident, opened with a personal narrative that resonates with many of us. Born and raised here, Laura is a testament to the power of local education, having transitioned from a student in our schools to a dedicated teacher within the same system. Her experiences as a mother and educator fuel her campaign, with a particular focus on ensuring a safe, supportive, and equitable learning environment for all students.

Laura’s stance on addressing student behavior, enhancing staff support, and securing fair wages for educators underscores a commitment to fostering an educational environment where students and teachers alike can thrive. She emphasizes the need for fair and consistent policy enforcement, especially concerning student behavior, a concern sparked by her own son's encounter with bullying. Laura also brought forward staff retention possibilities such as better maternity leave and better insurance options.

Dale Merrill: Bridging Education with Future-Readiness

Dale Merrill brings a unique perspective to the table, combining legal expertise with a passionate advocacy for behavior management and vocational training. Recognizing the diverse needs of our students, Dale advocates for specialized education plans for children with behavioral and learning differences, stressing the importance of preparing all students for success beyond the classroom.

Dale's personal journey, from software industry professional to lawyer to a single parent of an adopted child with disabilities, enriches her approach to educational policy. Her insights into the intersection of education, behavioral management, and societal outcomes highlight the need for a comprehensive strategy that includes better support for teachers and specialized programs for students facing unique challenges.

Victoria "Vickie" Smith: Advocating for Change from Within

Vickie Smith's extensive experience as a teacher and union leader in Citrus County brings a crucial voice to the forefront of this race. Her dedication to advocating for teachers, support staff, and students shines through her campaign. Vickie’s focus on revising disciplinary policies to protect all students, especially in handling bullying and ensuring fair treatment, aligns with a broader vision for a more inclusive and supportive educational system.

Vickie’s criticism of the current administration's staffing and budget priorities speaks to a need for a realignment of resources to directly benefit classrooms and student support services. Her proposals to enhance teacher and staff retention through better pay and supportive policies underscore a comprehensive approach to improving our schools.

My Take: Education Beyond Partisanship

What strikes me most about this forum is the shared commitment among the candidates to elevate the quality of education in Citrus County. Each brings a unique perspective, yet all underscore the importance of addressing immediate challenges like teacher retention, student behavior, and educational accessibility.

As a Democrat, I'm inspired by the discussion's focus on non-partisanship in education. The unanimous opposition to Florida Amendment 1, advocating for non-partisan school board elections, reinforces the belief that education should transcend political divides, focusing solely on what's best for our students and community.

Looking Forward

As the election approaches, it’s crucial for us to stay informed and engaged with the candidates’ platforms. Education shapes the future of our community, and the choices we make at the polls reflect our values and aspirations for Citrus County’s children. Let’s champion candidates who embody the spirit of service and equity that defines the best of our community.

Stay tuned for more updates, and remember, your vote is your voice—let’s make it count for education.

Social Media Links for Candidates who spoke:

Laura Gatling-Wright: https://www.facebook.com/laura4ccsb

Dale Merrill: https://www.facebook.com/daleforschools

Vickie Smith: www.facebook.com/vote4vickie