Education

"When we invest in education, we're investing in our neighbors' futures - their careers, their earning power, and a local workforce that makes our county competitive for the jobs and businesses of tomorrow."

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Regular Engagement with the School Board & Educators

The school board controls curriculum and day-to-day operations. A county commissioner's job is to listen, not to direct. That requires showing up consistently - not just at budget time - and building a real working relationship with the people who run the schools.

Schedule regular meetings with the school board to hear their needs and priorities firsthand
Meet with school leaders and staff to understand conditions on the ground
Bring concerns from the community back to the school board's attention - and carry the school system's needs forward to the board of commissioners

Capital Investment & School Infrastructure

One of the county commission's clearest responsibilities to the school system is funding capital projects. Aging buildings and deferred maintenance aren't school board problems - they're county problems. The commission controls the capital budget, and that comes with real accountability to the schools.

Prioritize the school system's capital needs in the county's long-term facilities plan
Advocate for funding that lets the school board build and maintain the infrastructure their students and staff deserve
Push for transparent timelines and accountability on school construction and renovation projects
Explore state and federal grant opportunities to reduce the burden on local taxpayers

A Strong Voice in the County Budget

Education funding in Rutherford County runs through the county commission's budget process. That makes every budget vote a vote on what schools can do for students. The school board's requests deserve to be heard and taken seriously - not treated as a line item to cut.

Ensure the school board's budget requests are heard and seriously considered
Push back on funding decisions that shift costs onto educators and families
Work to maintain and grow the county's per-pupil investment alongside enrollment changes

Supporting Workforce Pathways

Students can't pursue what they've never been exposed to, and the county can help change that without dictating to educators. By bringing employers and community college partners to the table, the county expands options and lets the school board lead.

Facilitate connections between local employers and the school system to expand apprenticeship and internship options
Support deeper coordination between Rutherford County Schools and Isothermal Community College
Champion skilled trades as a respected career path alongside academic tracks

Help shape the agenda

Phil wants to hear from parents, teachers, school board members, and school employees in District 5.

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