Sandhills Sentinel spoke with those pursuing Moore County Board of Education seats in November.
All candidates were provided a list of questions that they responded to in written form. Questions for each candidate are identical, and the candidates’ submitted answers have not been altered in any way. The order of candidates reflects the order they will appear on the ballot.
Stacey Caldwell
How long have you lived in Moore County?
The military brought us here in 2001. (19 years)
What is your educational background?
Education Background History: Parents were Educators, Teacher Assistant, Special Education Teacher Assistant, Bachelors Degree in K-8 Education, Currently North Carolina Certified K-8 Teacher, Taught in Moore County Schools from (2001-2009), Preschool Teacher in Moore County (2010-2015), Reading Buddy for Moore County Schools (2009-2011), Military Liaison for Vass Lakeview Elementary, Serving on the Pet Responsibility Team (2011-present) (Our team goes to schools in Moore County and teaches children on how to become responsible pet owners.)
Have you ever served in an elected office?
Yes, appointed in 2014 (summer) and elected in 2015.
For incumbents- What would you have done differently if you had the chance?
Motivation is reflecting on the past, celebrating the accomplishments, and looking into the future on where we will be. This question is hard for me answer because you can’t change the past but you can make the future better. Every decision we make will always affect someone positively or negatively. I can honestly say I made every decision based off what is best for every child. Did I disagree and vote against certain decisions? Yes. For instance, the redistricting, I voted against it, but I got out voted. As a Board member, I have to support the decision made because we all need to work together to make Moore County the best it can be. There is always a need for growth and improvement, but being negative isn’t the answer. Instead of complaining, we need to come together and see how we can improve.
What unique qualities will you bring to the office?
The qualities I bring to the office is my educational background, I have worked in Moore County public schools, being a military spouse, a parent, and a having been a volunteer in the schools since 2009.
Why are you the best candidate for the office?
I feel that I am the best candidate because of my background in education and having the experience of being a board member. I am not a politician. I have no hidden agendas. I do not believe I have to be in the limelight or grab the attention because I am not in this position for me, I am in this position for the children. I am compassionate, positive, and dedicated. I support public schools, I support teachers, and I believe every child deserves the best education we can possibly give them.
Brandon Coleman
How long have you lived in Moore County?
9yrs
What is your educational background?
Civilian-Associates Degree, Military-Extensive
Have you ever served in an elected office?
No
For challenger of an incumbent- What is one thing your opponent did while in office that you would have done differently?
I would have been a lot more fiscally responsible while still providing world class education.
What unique qualities will you bring to the office?
Outside the box thinking. I’m not a ‘go along to get along’ individual. I have no hidden agendas other than to do what is best for the children of Moore County.
Why are you the best candidate for the office?
Moore County schools used to be rated very high however with the current BOE our schools are now poorly rated. I know our schools can be outstanding and with proper fiscal responsibility, school choice, parents having a voice our schools can be the envy of North Carolina. I have lived all over the U.S. and the world and I know what a good education looks like and how we can be competitive.
Early voting is from Oct. 15- 31. The election is November 3.
You can find more information on the Moore County Board of Elections website.
Contributed photos: L, R; Stacey Caldwell and Brandon Coleman.
Article by Sandhills Sentinel Journalism Intern Stephanie M. Sellers.
