Blackwell, Reed discuss education at Political Forum

The two candidates, vying for the lone contested seat of the Stephens County Board of Education, during the Political Forum, last week, demonstrated a strong urgency in their desire to lead.

Candidates Joel Blackwell and Kay Reed were both motivated to run for election because of a child enrolled in the Stephens County School System.

Both candidates were asked to define their idea of a balanced education.

Blackwell suggested he would like to see an education system that incorporates the interests of students from all walks of life.

Reed stated that students should be prepared for the jobs the students want to do; rather than simply prepare students for a college or vocational education.

The two candidates were also asked what occupations or skillsets have prepared them for joining the BOE.

Blackwell, who previously worked as a welding instructor, said he has seen students who were not prepared for the workforce after high school.

“When I was teaching, I would have students who were straight out of high school, and I would talk to them and hear their concerns about being prepared,” Blackwell said.

Reed, who works as an independent insurance contractor, said it was her experience in watching her grandchildren that she learned not all children want or learn the same.

“I have a 5-month-old granddaughter and a 3-year-old grandson, and I don’t think my grandson is going to be interested in reading and math. There needs to be a way for our students to be prepared for the workforce or ready to pursue the path to doing what they want to do,” she said.

The General Primary Election is slated for May 22, for questions regarding voting, contact the Stephens County Registrar’s Office via phone at 706-886-8954.