Richard Hooker, Jr.

1. Why are you running for the school board? Leadership and experience matter. My 20 years as a school board member has provided me a broad perspective, understanding unique experience on governance and policy development at the local and state level. I am also running because I have a vision for Cleveland County Schools to become one of the top 10 performing schools in North Carolina. Moreover, I believe I also bring a unique and important perspective to issues such as the achievement gap, workforce diversity, mentoring, black male achievement and parent involvement. 2. What are the big issues the school board will face in the next four years? The challenges of meeting the needs of the 23rd largest school district in the state are numerous and multi-faceted. There are external threats that impact our operation and delivery of services. They include the impact of charter schools funding, private school vouchers, virtual charter schools and legislative agenda which erodes often public confidence. Other important issues that will challenge our ability to govern, set policies and to lead, are upcoming pupil assignments, facility needs and workforce diversity concerns will demand both immediate attention and long range planning. 3. What are we doing right in Cleveland County Schools? What are we doing wrong? There are many, many things that characterize the positive and constructive things going on at CCS. What is noteworthy, for example, is the spirit of collaboration that exists with our community stakeholders. They include, the Community Math Academy, Communities in Schools, Close the Gap Committee, the CCS Education Foundation, Cleveland Community College, Alliance for Health, Partnership for Children and so many other invaluable partners. I would not characterize the fact we are doing anything wrong, however, there is room for continuous improvements. For example, the area of concerns for more transparency and better communication lines to build better public trust are legitimate issues. They also represent opportunities that will better position Cleveland County Schools to fulfill its' mission to "challenge each student with an exceptional educational experience that will lead them to become a productive global citizen by partnering with our community to provide quality learning opportunities."