Board Business Briefs: Financial and Construction Reports, New Leaders Appointments

The Cherokee County School Board at its regular meeting on Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025, reviewed financial management and construction reports and appointed two new district leaders.

The meeting began with a work session at 5:30 p.m. followed by the regular business meeting at 7 p.m.  Both were livestreamed via YouTube, and the videos are archived on the CCSD website in the Board of Education area online here.

INSTRUCTIONAL RESOURCES IMPLEMENTATION UPDATE

Superintendent of Schools Mary Elizabeth Davis began the work session with an update on the district’s success in connecting the School Board’s vision for instructional excellence from the board room to the classroom. 

“Student learning has truly been our unapologetic shared focus,” she said.  “That focus has started right here in the board room as each of these school board members has contributed to the development of core beliefs, they built a supportive accountability governance model, they authored Policy BAB that calls for clarity in our cohesive system of teaching and learning, as well as supportive accountability for our outcomes, and they set three-year goals for student achievement.  Because of that monumental work we have a new depth of alignment from the board room to the classroom that really is uncommon in public education today and it really has been the driving force behind the unity in governance that this board can point to.”

Feedback gathered from the newly formed Teacher Advisory Council, coupled with the Teacher of the Year focus group and school-based advisories, has highlighted both “strengths and strains” related to the implementation of new English language arts (ELA) and math resources.  The Council, a group envisioned by the School Board, is made up of teachers, selected by their peers, from each of CCSD’s schools and centers who meet with Superintendent Davis quarterly.

“There is a lot that is new, and we know that implementing new materials, approaches, and routines takes time, practice, and support,” Superintendent Davis said.  “We have been listening in to identify focus areas for support and we’re hearing that lesson timing, small group instruction, and phonics instruction in grades K–2 are key spaces where we need to continue to focus our efforts.  These are also areas where we’re committed to providing ongoing support this fall as we grow together in this work.”

The school district in the spring began the distribution to teachers of new resources (textbooks, workbooks and digital resources) for kindergarten to high school ELA and math classes.  Professional development began during May post-planning and continued during July pre-planning to prepare teachers for using the resources.

Superintendent Davis said teachers have shared strong appreciation for the board’s investment in the resources, which were selected based on input from 800 teachers and parents, especially the improvement of print materials (textbooks and workbooks) and the greater use of text annotation that allows.

Challenges identified by teachers include balancing elementary school ELA class time between whole group and small-group instruction, log-in access for online resources, clarity on how to incorporate supplemental materials, and the desire for stronger writing supports.

In response to this feedback, after fall break the district will be introducing additional supports and trainings to aid in the implementation.  These will include optional weekly districtwide teacher collaboration sessions by grade level and subject, greater instructional support for administrators, and connecting parents to resources for helping students with homework. 

INDEPENDENT ANALYSIS OF OPT-OUT CALCULATION

This past February, the School Board was met with the complex and challenging task to determine the future of funding for schools in Cherokee.  Prompted by House Bill 581 in 2024, every school district and municipality in the state of Georgia had to decide whether to apply a tax digest growth cap determined annually by the Consumer Price Index (CPI).  After study and review of long-term projections, the board voted to opt out of this floating homestead exemption as provided for by the law because of the long-term implications to continuing current CCSD operations and funding – 92% of which are directed toward teachers and support staff to serve 40,500 students in 40 schools and centers.

The decision was made following three public hearings and review of the financial implications if the board did not opt out of the statewide proposed floating homestead exemption on property tax.  The anticipated loss of funding, as estimated at the time of the vote, was $10.6 million in reduced local revenue for the first year, and $54.9 million over three years.

In March, the board followed this decision and voted to conduct a third-party review of the projection calculations used to determine that financial impact.  After a request for proposals process, STA PLLC, supported by Paterco, Inc. and Dickey & Associates LLC, was selected to complete the independent analysis.

The analysis report, which was presented to the board at Thursday’s work session and is online here, concluded that CCSD “successfully met all procedural requirements associated with the opt-out process” and that the school district’s long-term estimate of the anticipated financial losses was conservative and much lower than the third-party group’s calculations.

The independent report validated the calculation applied by the school district.  The results, found on page 10 of the report, determined that CCSD could expect $65.8 million less in revenue compared to CCSD’s projection of $54.9 million less over the next three years.  The out-years of 2029 and 2030 were steeper in the projected revenue loss compared to CCSD estimates primarily due to the new availability of reconciled actual tax digest data as opposed to projections, and the incorporation of exemption growth in the projection model.

School Board member Kelly Poole noted her appreciation for the report’s validation of the board’s actions. 

School Board member Chance Beam also noted the analysis is evidence of the board’s commitment to an informed decision-making process. 

“We trusted but we also verified,” he said. “Our job isn’t just to make easy choices – it’s to make the right one, even when they’re hard, and I commend the board for doing that.”

School Board Chair Janet Read Welch thanked taxpayers for their support of public education, both through property taxes and the renewal of the Education SPLOST (Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax).

MONTHLY FINANCIAL REPORT

The board during its work session also heard the monthly financial report for August, which is online here.  This second month of the new fiscal year shows a gap in revenues as compared to expenditures.

Chief Financial Officer Kenneth Owen underscored the importance of the School Board maintaining a reasonable and healthy reserve fund as part of its annual budget specifically to sustain operations through the months of August to December.  He pointed to the temporary operating budget funding gap that occurs each fall due to the timing of local property tax collection, which is received typically in December, and federal funding distribution, which is on a reimbursement basis. 

In the past, the school district had to use tax anticipation notes for short-term borrowing to cover this gap each fall, but due to the School Board’s support of strong financial stewardship, the district no longer has to borrow and can instead use its own reserve fund – like a savings account -- to ensure timely payment of salaries and benefits, utility and fuel costs, and other operating expenses.   

NEW LEADERS

As part of its approval of the monthly human resources employment recommendations, the School Board on Thursday appointed two district leadership roles.

Dr. Shannon Carroll, who currently serves as CCSD’s supervisor of instructional technology, will serve as director of technology field services, a position recently opened by retirement.  A 28-year educator, Dr. Carroll began her education career as a teacher, twice earning school Teacher of the Year honors.  She later served as a teacher on special assignment at the district level for science curriculum and professional development and as CCSD’s curriculum coordinator for math, science, PE, and health.

Dr. Erin Jacobs, who currently serves as CCSD’s curriculum coordinator for science, STEM, health, and PE, will serve as director of assessment, a position recently opened by retirement.  A 20-year educator, Dr. Jacobs began her education career as a high school science teacher.  She later served as the instructional lead strategist at Etowah HS before taking on her current role, for which she has earned honors including a national Discovery Education Leadership Award.

The School Board also:

• School Board member Patsy Jordan celebrated the Special Education and Career Pathways teachers at Creekview HS for their successful collaborative Market Day lesson.  Through the lesson, students learn about operating a small business, create their own products, and then sell them to community members during the Market Day sale event;
• Heard the monthly capital outlay report, which is online here.  All projects, including construction of the new replacement Cherokee HS campus and improvements to the River Ridge HS and Sequoyah HS campuses, are on schedule and within budget.  Superintendent Davis noted that she is gathering feedback at her student, employee, parent, and community partner focus group meetings on future use of the current Cherokee HS campus.  She also praised Cherokee HS administrators for their “spectacular” season of milestone moments, noting the alumni school tours and recent homecoming festivities.  School Board member Kelly Poole commented she is hearing questions from constituents about the future use of the current campus as well as how the new campus’s traffic will be mitigated and looks forward to hearing updates;
• Chief of Staff Mike McGowan outlined the School Board’s process for developing its Legislative Priorities 2026 Report, which details its stand on educational issues that state legislators are expected to consider during the upcoming General Assembly session.  He shared that the board is eager to achieve a positive and collaborative relationship with the local legislative delegation, and he also outlined ideas shared by board members including a stabilization of tax digest growth based on historical data, maintaining competitive compensation for employees, and increasing academic accountability, among others.  School Board Chance Beam recommended the School Board seek local legislation to cap annual residential property value growth for assessing local taxes at 6% annually; 
• Heard a report from Mr. McGowan on the district’s continued efforts to comply with House Bill 845.  He noted the district continues to await, from the Cherokee County state legislative delegation, the list of companies or individuals eligible to perform the requirements of the legislation, as well as a timeline for that work.  The cost to the district is yet to be determined.  School Board Chair Janet Read Welch spoke to the board’s eagerness to work with the delegation to comply with the legislation; 
• Recognized Free Home ES for being honored as one of America's Healthiest Schools.  Learn more here; and,
• Approved a proclamation to honor Constitution Week, Sept. 17-23.  School Board member Dr. Susan Padgett-Harrison thanked the district’s Academics & Accountability team for its work to provide teachers with instructional resources to celebrate the week with learning activities.  She then highlighted lessons that teachers led at schools including Free Home ES and E.T. Booth MS.

STUDENT DELEGATE WORK SESSION

Thursday kicked off a new series of work sessions with the Student Delegates to the School Board.  Prior to every meeting, from October through May, the group of high school seniors representing each of CCSD’s high schools will meet with the Superintendent’s senior staff to learn more about district operations and career opportunities offered by each division.

For Thursday’s session, School Board members met with the Delegates to talk about their role as leaders and their decision to serve.  School Board members also provided written responses to a series of questions to share more with the community about their role and service, and these are shared below.

Student Delegate Olivia Kennison of River Ridge High School shared the Student Delegate Moment remarks during the regular meeting.  Each Delegate will have a turn at the dais, on a rotating basis, and will share remarks on behalf of the group, adding an opportunity for student voice at every board meeting.

Olivia reflected on what she and her fellow Delegates learned from their work session with the School Board about seeking and serving in public office.

The board members, she said, shared that, in their role, “it's very important to compromise and to listen and to always think what would be best for the students.”

Chair Janet Read Welch

Janet Read Welch is a 33-year resident of Towne Lake who began her volunteer engagement with CCSD in 1998.  She served multiple roles in the Bascomb, Chapman, E.T. Booth, and Etowah PTA organizations, including president of the Bascomb PTA from 2000-2002.   She previously served on the school board from 2005 to June of 2015.   Ms. Read Welch is the proud mom of Drew Read and Lucas Read – both graduates of Etowah HS and has been married to her husband, Jan Welch, since April 2018.

Why did you choose to serve on the School Board?

I became involved with the CCSD because of the Bascomb PTA.  From that role, I realized that I wanted to be a part of something that affected more children and decided that I would love to run for the Board of Education.  When the local seat became vacant, I jumped on the chance to become a board member.  I ran for the board most recently because I wanted to continue my goal of ensuring that every child in our district receives a quality education.

What part of your role on the School Board do you enjoy most?

I love the recognitions we have for students and staff at our board meetings.  I especially enjoy watching the parents/spouses as their loved one is being recognized.  I also appreciate the opportunity to be in the schools and speak with teachers and staff.  It is great seeing firsthand how the decisions that the board makes have a direct and positive impact on our students and their success.  I also appreciate when community members see me out in the community and talk about how pleased they are with our district. 

What is the most challenging part of serving on the School Board?

Oftentimes, parents will contact BOE members about issues they are having with their children or the teachers.  While I appreciate their concerns, I often discover that their first contact was with one of the board members.  In those cases, I do my best to guide them through the proper channels -- speak to the teacher, assistant principal, and principal.  I try to remind every parent that they are best advocate for their child, while also ensuring that they have taken all the right steps to have their concerns/issues resolved. 

What other ways do you enjoy volunteering in the community?

I serve on the Children’s Haven board and the board of the 911 Foundation.  Both of these great organizations speak to my heart and remind me that it truly takes a village. 

What are some of the reasons you love living in our community?

I moved here 34 years ago when Cherokee County was still very rural.  I grew up in a small farming community in east central Illinois, so I was immediately drawn to the small-town feel.  Over these years I have watched it grow and expand.  When people complain about “new people moving in,” I usually ask them if they have always lived here or did they “move in” as well?  I love the local sports rivalries and then learning that those same kids played Little League, YMCA, or youth sports on the same teams.  I attended the Woodstock HS/Etowah HS state championship baseball game a few years when they played at Turner Field.  The players lined up on the baselines for the National Anthem.  I remember thinking how amazing it was that these players have grown up in in Braves territory and they are playing one of the most important games of their high school careers in this stadium against the team that is two miles down the road!  We left the stadium with fans/parents/players from both schools.  The atmosphere was so positive from both teams.  Nearly every car that pulled away from the stadium was headed north – Cherokee County – God’s country – an amazing place to live, work and attend school!  I am honored that voters chose me to be a small part of such a great school district!

Vice Chair Patsy Jordan, District 2

Vice Chair Ms. Jordan is a retired educator from CCSD, with a strong educational background that includes associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and specialist degrees, along with endorsements in gifted and teacher support.  A lifelong member of the Mica/Conns Creek community in northeast Cherokee County, Ms. Jordan attended Ball Ground ES, graduated from Cherokee HS, and is serving her fourth term as District 2 school board member. 

Why did you choose to serve on the School Board?

I chose to run for the school board because I wanted to make a meaningful difference for students, teachers, and staff.  My career in education began as a Special Education paraprofessional 50 years ago.  I progressed through the ranks, serving as school secretary, central office payroll clerk, and school bus driver before returning to night school to become a certified teacher.  These experiences provided me with a thorough understanding of the challenges faced in each role and shaped my ability to make informed decisions that support the people I serve.

What part of your role on the School Board do you enjoy most?

One of the most rewarding aspects of serving as a school board member is the opportunity to visit schools, engage with staff, and connect directly with students.  As a former teacher, I deeply valued it when board members took the time to visit classrooms, and I have made it a priority to continue that tradition.  Whether I am reading to students, participating in special events, or attending drama performances from elementary through high school, these moments highlight the pride, talent, and dedication within our community.  They are celebrations not only for students, but also for parents and staff, and I am grateful to share them.  Just as importantly, I am honored to serve the people who elected me to be their voice.  Supporting my constituents, whether by addressing concerns or simply offering a listening ear, is one of the most significant responsibilities and privileges of this role.  I love the Cherokee County School District and consider it a privilege to represent the people who have placed their trust in me.  Although District 2 elects me, my service extends throughout the entire district.

What is the most challenging part of serving on the School Board?

The most challenging aspect of being a school board member is making decisions that impact numerous stakeholders, including students, parents, teachers, and the broader community.  Every choice carries weight, and often, no decision will satisfy everyone involved.  Balancing the needs of students while also considering the needs of staff, finances, and state requirements can be challenging.  It requires listening with compassion, doing thorough research, and maintaining integrity even when the decision is unpopular.  Another challenge is separating personal feelings from what is best for the entire district.  At the heart of it all, the most significant responsibility — and the greatest challenge — is ensuring that every decision keeps students at the center.

What other ways do you enjoy volunteering in the community?

Serving my community has always been close to my heart.  For 48 years, I have been a pianist at my church, and I enjoy volunteering in schools — whether reading to students, calling bingo games, or participating in special events.  I also find joy in cooking for the elderly and helping brighten their day, as well as caring for my 98-year-old mother alongside my sister.  Another passion of mine is history; I served as a past president of the Ball Ground Historical Society and continue to enjoy capturing our community’s stories through historical interviews.

What are some of the reasons you love living in our community?

I love living in the Mica community of Cherokee County, eight miles from the city of Ball Ground, because it has always been my home.  Unlike many, I have lived on the same property my entire life.  Growing up on a farm gave me a special lifestyle that I still enjoy today.  From my backyard, I can watch cows grazing and donkeys awaiting their evening treats — it’s a serene and peaceful view.  In the late afternoons, the deer wander in, and the baby calves run and play.  In the summer, it is a specialty to grow my own food and prepare it for the winter.  Life in a rural community is truly special, and I feel blessed to live it every day.

District 1: Kelly Poole

Ms. Poole of BridgeMill is elected by District 1, which includes Holly Springs and the Sixes community.  An accountant with experience in government and nonprofits and their audits, Ms. Poole joined the School Board in 2015 to expand upon her longtime service to local schools through the PTA.  Her daughter and son are CCSD graduates.

Why did you choose to serve on the School Board?  

I chose to serve on the board due to a longtime involvement with PTA.  When my family moved to Canton in 2004, the PTA was a great way to get involved in schools and learn about my new community.  One of the pillars of PTA is advocacy.  After I saw the way advocacy could enact change, I knew that I wanted to bring that to a bigger audience.  Advocating on behalf of our students, their families and our teachers has become my most important role on the board. 

What part of your role on the School Board do you enjoy most? 

There is so much to enjoy about being on the school board, but if I had to pick one it would be graduation.  It is celebrating and closing the door on the chapter of what so many professionals have invested in daily to get these kids across the finish line.  There are so many hours of blood, sweat, and tears that go into that moment and make it one of our most special events.

What is the most challenging part of serving on the School Board? 

The most challenging part of being on the school board is not being able fix everything immediately.  I'm a doer, so having to take time to study processes and not act immediately is a challenge. 

What other ways do you enjoy volunteering in the community? 

I am an active member of the Rotary Club of Canton, Transfiguration Catholic Church, and Cherokee County Republican Women.  You will often find me helping with donations of time or giving monetarily to these organizations.

What are some of the reasons you love living in our community? 

I love living in our community because the people we serve are amazing.  There are so many instances that I see people helping or giving selflessly of their time, treasure, and talent.  We truly are blessed to call Cherokee County home. 

District 3: Chance Beam

Mr. Beam, a Woodstock resident and local business owner, was appointed to the School Board in February to represent District 3.  As a dedicated entrepreneur, he has successfully operated multiple businesses, contributing to the growth and development of youth sports and athletics in the community.  His coaching efforts have helped over 1,200 players advance to college or professional baseball and softball.  Mr. Beam and his wife, Christine, have one daughter who attends River Ridge HS and one who is a 2025 graduate now attending Lipscomb University.

Why did you choose to serve on the School Board?

I stepped up to serve because I believe every student in Cherokee County deserves safe schools, excellent teaching, and clear pathways to college, careers, and the military.  I’m a parent and a small-business owner, so I see both sides: the classroom realities and the community’s expectations.  I wanted to bring a steady, accountable voice to fiscal stewardship, transparent decision-making, and policies that empower teachers while keeping families informed.  My north star is simple: plant seeds today that our kids — and their kids — will benefit from tomorrow.

What part of your role on the School Board do you enjoy most?

I enjoy solving hard problems with smart, mission-driven people.  The best days are when I’m in schools listening to teachers and principals, celebrating student achievements in academics, arts, and athletics, and then translating what I’ve heard into practical policy — things like safety improvements, clear curriculum supports, fair and competitive procurement, and stronger career-tech pathways.  I also value open communication with parents; when we explain the “why,” trust grows.

What is the most challenging part of serving on the School Board?

The hardest part is balancing worthy priorities within finite resources — especially when trade-offs affect different schools in different ways.  Complex topics — budgets, policies, compliance — don’t always fit into a sound bite.  Slowing down to share data and context, even when the issue is urgent, is essential and not always easy.

What other ways do you enjoy volunteering in the community?

I stay engaged through youth sports — mentoring and supporting student-athletes, hosting clinics, and helping families navigate development and recruiting.  Whenever possible, I pitch in at school events and community forums — any setting where listening first can lead to better outcomes for kids.

What are some of the reasons you love living in our community?

Cherokee County blends small-town relationships with big-time opportunities.  We have strong schools, vibrant youth sports and arts, active faith and civic organizations, and a growing economy that still feels neighborly.  People show up for one another here — at games, performances, fundraisers, and graduations.  It’s a place where families can put down roots, where teachers and coaches are community heroes, and where working together still means something.  That’s why I’m proud to serve 

District 4: Robert “Rick Steiner” Rechsteiner

Mr. Rechsteiner of southwest Cherokee, known by his nickname Rick Steiner from his professional wrestling career, has served for 19 years on the School Board.  A Realtor and longtime youth sports volunteer and supporter, he is elected by District 4, which includes Etowah High School and southwest Cherokee.  His three sons are CCSD graduates.

Why did you choose to serve on the School Board?

I chose to serve on the School Board because I am committed to ensuring that every student has access to a high-quality education and that teachers and staff have the support and resources they need to succeed.  My goal is to create a positive, productive learning environment and to leave the district stronger than I found it.  Serving on the board allows me to advocate for students, support educators, and be an active part of shaping the future of our schools and community.

What part of your role on the School Board do you enjoy most?

What I enjoy most about serving on the School Board is seeing the smiles of students, teachers, and administrators when their achievements are recognized at board meetings. I also value attending events such as Special Olympics Awareness Games Day and student performances, which highlight the talents and spirit within our schools.  Most of all, I take pride in serving as a bridge between my constituents and the school district, ensuring their voices are heard and represented.

What is the most challenging part of serving on the School Board?

The most challenging part of serving on the School Board is ensuring that the Superintendent and staff are held accountable to make decisions that are in the best interest of students while balancing limited resources and competing priorities.  It can be challenging to address concerns from multiple stakeholders, maintain transparency, and make tough decisions that impact the entire district, all while keeping the focus on providing the best possible educational experience for every student.

What other ways do you enjoy volunteering in the community?

I genuinely enjoy volunteering in our schools and attending special events throughout the district.  Whether it's cheering on students at performances or competitions, or simply being present at school functions, I find great joy in supporting their hard work. The students are always my motivation -- they remind me why I serve and inspire me to stay committed to making a difference in their lives.  I also enjoy speaking with kids in the community about my career, answering their questions, and encouraging their goals.  Many of our students have a strong interest in wrestling, and I love connecting with them about their passions and future opportunities.

What are some of the reasons you love living in our community?

Cherokee County has been my home for 37 years, a place where I have built both family and community roots.  I had the privilege of raising three sons who attended Cherokee County School District schools, benefiting from its excellent education and supportive environment.  It was a wonderful place not only for learning, but also for raising a family.  Now, as a proud grandfather, I want the same high-quality educational opportunities and nurturing community experience for my grandson that my children enjoyed.  Maintaining and supporting these standards for future generations is a commitment I hold close to my heart.

District 5: Erin Ragsdale

Ms. Ragsdale of Towne Lake joined the School Board in 2023, bringing to the role experience as a teacher, speech language pathologist and school and community volunteer.  She is elected by District 5, which includes Woodstock HS, Towne Lake, and downtown Woodstock.  Both of her children are CCSD students.

Why did you choose to serve on the School Board?

I really wanted to be of service in my community. In particular, I wanted to be a voice for our classroom teachers; building a bridge of sorts between the board and the realities of a public school classroom.  At times, there can be too wide a gap between the board/central office and the actual classroom setting.  Having supported and heard teachers provides our students with the best possible education.

What part of your role on the School Board do you enjoy most? 

I enjoy the collaboration in working with my fellow board members, school officials and community to provide the best education possible for our students.  Listening to various viewpoints and ideas, even if they differ from my own, is key in striving for the best possible education outcomes.

What is the most challenging part of serving on the School Board? 

I think the most challenging part of being on the School Board is balancing the needs of our students with the needs of our community and stakeholders.  Everyone has different ideas and feelings based on their personal experience.  As a board member, I have to weight all those ideas and feelings and then make decisions that best serve our students while considering the needs of everyone.

What other ways do you enjoy volunteering in the community? 

Besides serving on the School Board, most of my additional volunteer efforts revolve around my family life, such as school events for my children or church events.

What are some of the reasons you love living in our community? 

I love the Cherokee County community because of its people.  I have lived in several parts of Georgia.  What struck me when our family moved to Cherokee was how nice everyone was.  From store clerks to pizza drivers to neighbors, everyone is so warm, helpful, and friendly.  Our family loves it here.

District 6: Dr. Susan Padgett-Harrison

Dr. Padgett-Harrison of Canton, who took office in 2023, served as an educator with CCSD for 29 years in roles including teacher, assistant principal, Cherokee HS principal and district curriculum supervisor and assessment director.  An adjunct Kennesaw State University and Piedmont University lecturer and longtime community volunteer, her family includes three CCSD graduates, including one who serves as a CCSD educator, and 12 grandchildren.

Why did you choose to serve on the School Board? 

To make a difference.  I have a lot of experience in the field, and I can give input to my fellow board members from that perspective and learn from their experiences in different fields as well, too, for us to make the best decisions for teachers, students, and parents.

What part of your role on the School Board do you enjoy most? 

Visiting schools!  Those smiling faces and interactions -- no matter the age -- bring joy and purpose to the work.  I am also impressed with the talent and work ethic we have in our district from so many dedicated professionals.

What is the most challenging part of serving on the School Board? 

Listening to those who do not know the vested interest they have in an educated population even without having students in the system.  What we do creates the next police officer, firefighter, teacher, mechanic, electrician, grocery store worker ... or the oncologist who saves their life.  Teachers and administrators enhance the values parents instill at home with respect, work ethic, kindness, and an appreciation for those who will be their community.

What other ways do you enjoy volunteering in the community? 

I love working with several groups such as Rotary Club of Canton, Empower Cherokee for developmentally disabled adults, Cherokee Retired Educators Association, and serving as a deacon for my church.

What are some of the reasons you love living in our community? 

I moved here as an 11th grader at Cherokee High and was raised in poverty -- one of eight kids to parents who only finished the eighth grade.   And Cherokee County welcomed me and encouraged me along the way with education and opportunities to serve.  I am always aware that moving from an 18-year-old married poultry line worker to a doctorate from University of Georgia would not happen everywhere.  So many acts of kindness -- big and small -- changed the trajectory of my life.  Each day when I would drive to work viewing the mountains and the beauty of this area, I counted my blessings.