2014 Board Applicant Ashcraft

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Jan Ashcraft Email: JANLCA424@gmail.com Resident: Mount Pleasant, South Carolina Occupation: VP (Chief Cook and Bottlewasher) at Self employed-Ashcraft Irrigation and Landscaping Experience with business, Parent/Legal Guardian of JICHS Student, Resident of SC College and Training: Associate Degree in Histology, College of Charleston, Trident Technical College and College of Allied Health Sciences/MUSC Previous Years of Charter Board training and experience at James Island Charter High School as PTA/PTSA volunteer 1. Why do you want to serve on the James Island Charter High School Board of Directors? I want to serve on the James Island Charter High School Board of Directors to support the charter and opportunities for our principal, teachers, staff and students and to ensure and encourage the mission of JICHS! 2. Describe your work and volunteer background and how it prepares you to be a member of the school board. Currently, and for the past 16 years, I am self employed with my husband in grounds maintenance and landscaping. I communicate and consult for our contract obligations. With 2 step daughters and 2 of our own, this has also allowed me the time to volunteer in elementary and middle schools as well as JICHS. I have had the privilege of serving on the JICHS Board of Directors in 2005-06, 07-08, 08-09 and this past year. I have also served on the selection committee for two other years. I previously began my full time employment with the state of South Carolina in 1979 at MUSC for 22 years. At MUSC I worked in Pathology, Anatomy and Cell Biology and for the last 13 years I functioned as the primary technician in Pediatric Developmental Neurogenetics for 16 post doctoral students from around the world and a known leading scientist that published 12 or more papers per year! It was an amazing experience! 3. Define the difference between your responsibilities as a board member and the responsibilities of the Principal. The responsibilities of a board member begins with direct communication with the Principal. The board must ensure there are policies in place for the needs of the school's operations. A board member acts to ensure the fiscal accountability of the charter school as well as to oversee how well the duties and goals of the school are performed. The responsibility of the Principal is to perform day-to-day operations of the entire school. In a charter public school, the Principal operates very similar to a superintendent in the traditional public school system.

2014 Board Applicant Ashcraft

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4. What do you consider to be the most important issue for the school and school board to focus on in the upcoming years? The most important issue for JICHS to focus on in the upcoming years is communication: communication between the staff and faculty to the principal and communication between the principal and the board of directors with the ultimate concern being the welfare of the students! We must evaluate and ensure the integrity of the old and new concerns of JICHS, from structures to academic achievements. We must also stress continuity: the importance of the charter and its significance in the community and perhaps most importantly, the charter's opportunity for the students, teachers and parents. 5. What do you see as the most important factors affecting student achievement? What is your role - what will you do - as a school board member to bring about improvement in these areas? The most important factors affecting student achievement involve teamwork! The teachers must have the tools they need and time to teach their students effectively. Students (and parents) need the experts (faculty, staff and principal) to offer opportunity, encourage them and provide guiding steps to achieve academic, athletic and appropriate personal goals. Testing/preparation and class size are vital concerns! I certainly hope to play a role as part of this team: 1-listen 2-ask questions 3-evaluate. 6. What do you see as your greatest strengths, and what positive additions can you bring to this board? I believe that my positive energy and attitude can be of benefit to the board. My perspective is open

minded and unassuming. While my previous BOD experience may be beneficial, my strong willingness

to work in unison with others is a valuable trait. I work to "make things work". In this case, it is the

charter school and all that work to have it stay successful!

2014 Board Applicant Bolus

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Keith Bolus Email: dkboluslaw@bellsouth.net Resident: Folly Beach, SC Occupation: Lawyer, D. Keith Bolus Attorney at Law Experience with business, Parent/Legal Guardian of JICHS Student, Resident of SC College and Training: B.A. College of Charleston M.P.A., College of Charleston, and J.D., USC School of Law 1. Why do you want to serve on the James Island Charter High School Board of Directors? I graduated from James Island and my children have either graduated or attend the school. I have a very strong desire to see JICHS not only succeed but to excel academically and athletically. I believe that active community and parental involvement is essential to the success of the school. 2. Describe your work and volunteer background and how it prepares you to be a member of the school board. I am a self employed attorney with over 25 years of experience in a wide range of legal areas. I have been on the Board for a total of 3 years and have found that a legal background is almost essential to fully understand the complex issues that the Board addresses. 3. Define the difference between your responsibilities as a board member and the responsibilities of the Principal. The Board defines school policy and the Principal is in charge of executing and administering the policy. The Board ensures school compliances with all of requirements as mandated by law. The Board also is responsible for developing strategic plans for the school and adopt and approve the annual budget. The job and methodology of teaching is in the control and decision making of the Principal and the professional educators. 4. What do you consider to be the most important issue for the school and school board to focus on in the upcoming years? To ensure that the Charter is in compliance with all State and Federal requirements. To ensure the successful completion of the school building program to include future funding for school building improvements. 5. What do you see as the most important factors affecting student achievement? What is your role - what will you do - as a school board member to bring about improvement in these areas? To ensure that the School not only keeps the excellent teachers it has, but continues to hire the best.

2014 Board Applicant Bolus

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6. What do you see as your greatest strengths, and what positive additions can you bring to this board?

I have served on the Board for a total of 3 years and I know the issues that the Board will face for the

year. I believe that the school has made remarkable positive progress and I would like to continue to be

a part of it.

2014 Board Applicant Brandenburg

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Mark Brandenburg Email: mark.c.brandenburg@comcast.net Resident: Johns Island, South Carolina Occupation: General Counsel at The Citadel Experience with business, Experience with K-12 Education, Parent/Legal Guardian of JICHS Student, Resident of SC College and Training: BA, English, The Citadel JD, Duke University School of Law Approximately twenty years as a practicing attorney. Nine years service on Buist Academy Foundation, four as chair 1. Why do you want to serve on the James Island Charter High School Board of Directors? I am interested in becoming more involved in JICHS. I believe my experience as an attorney, and particularly my experience in education law, provides me with a unique perspective to assist the school. 2. Describe your work and volunteer background and how it prepares you to be a member of the school board. I have served as counsel to The Citadel, both as outside and in-house counsel, for approximately fifteen years. In that position, I have regularly worked with The Citadel's governing board, and therefore understand the role of a board member, as compared to an officer or other employee of the school. I have also served on the Buist Academy Foundation, and while not exact, that experience provided an opportunity to serve in an oversight position with the school, similar to the role of a Board member at JICHS. 3. Define the difference between your responsibilities as a board member and the responsibilities of the Principal. A board member is responsible for setting the overall direction of the school, from a broad - policy-based - standpoint. The Principal is responsible for implementing policy, and accomplishing the day-to-day supervision of the school. 4. What do you consider to be the most important issue for the school and school board to focus on in the upcoming years? Finances will always be the underlying challenge to JICHS, CCSD, and education in general. Constantly increasing federal and state regulation, however, compounds the challenges faced by teachers and administrators, taking both away from the school's core mission to educate students.

2014 Board Applicant Brandenburg

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5. What do you see as the most important factors affecting student achievement? What is your role - what will you do - as a school board member to bring about improvement in these areas? Parental involvement is fundamental to a school's, and each individual student's, success. However, the JICHS Board's ability to increase parental involvement is limited. The school's website and weekly announcements create some sense of community for parents, but those tools are the responsibility of the administration, rather than the Board. Nonetheless, by regularly soliciting input from parents, at venues including but not limited to board meetings, the Board can at least offer other opportunities for parental involvement. 6. What do you see as your greatest strengths, and what positive additions can you bring to this board? As noted above, I have fifteen years of experience in working with a governing board, including nine

years of working from an administrator's standpoint. This experience will help focus the JICHS Board on

policy, rather than implementation.

2014 Board Applicant Bullock

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B. Lynn Bullock Email: bunnilynn@gmail.com Resident: Charleston, South Carolina Experience with business, Experience with K-12 Education, Parent/Legal Guardian of JICHS Student, Resident of SC College and Training: University of Pennsylvania Pastor, Entrepreneur, Early Childhood Education 1. Why do you want to serve on the James Island Charter High School Board of Directors? I desire to serve on the JICHS Board of Directors so that the voices of all members of the JICHS community may be adequately represented, especially that of the minority community. My passion is for the advancement of all students, teachers, administrators and the School as a whole.I desire to assist the students in their overall student-body experience so that their high school experience will be one that they will treasure for a lifetime. Additionally, I plan on being an advocate for the educators, as well as the administrative staff, so that they have the support and tools that they need in order to launch our children successfully into society. 2. Describe your work and volunteer background and how it prepares you to be a member of the school board. I am a business-owner, a pastor, a mother of three children- one of whom was born with special needs. I have spent over 20 years in the secular community, working for major financial institutions. I have also worked as a substitute teacher, and interim teacher, a pre-school teacher (in which I was named "Teacher of the Year"). I have served as an active PTA member for years at my children's schools. I have served on the Parent-Teacher Advisory Committee for my children's school, in which we made decisions for the school based on the needs and desires of the teachers, students and parents. This caused substantial increase in the school life and parent involvement. I have served as cheerleading coach for many years, most recent at James Island Middle School. 3. Define the difference between your responsibilities as a board member and the responsibilities of the Principal. The board member is appointed to assist in the advancement of the school, based on the needs of the school as expressed by the administration, educators, students and the community. The Principal is appointed to lead and direct the school towards the goals that he and his staff and the governing body have established. The Board member is not to "rule over" the Principal, but should assist him in his endeavors to make our school one of excellence.

2014 Board Applicant Bullock

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4. What do you consider to be the most important issue for the school and school board to focus on in the upcoming years? I feel that the most important issue for the school and school board to focus on in the upcoming years is academic achievement for ALL students. This would include ensuring that the high-achieving students are adequately challenged to their fullest potential, as well as providing resources for students that are struggling to meet their academic goals. All students should have greater opportunities for real-life experiences and training through off-site trips, more clubs for students to participate in, etc. Another issue is re-igniting excitement for our school. I also believe the issue of over-crowding needs to be addressed immediately. 5. What do you see as the most important factors affecting student achievement? What is your role - what will you do - as a school board member to bring about improvement in these areas? The most important factors affecting student achievement are 1. sufficient support for students that may need extra assistance; 2. additional guidance for the students and parents is needed; 3. adequate and timely bus transportation is needed; 4. more technology is needed for our students' advancement; 5. more involvement from the JICHS community; 6. support for the teachers- they know exactly what they need to meet the goals that they have been given. Their voices need to be heard and action needs to be taken based on their recommendations. ,As a board member, I would push the above areas by first getting the JICHS community involved and hearing what they have to say; I would involve them in the process by making sure they are aware of what we are dealing with as community, and listen to their recommendations; I would work on bringing the information that is needed to bring forth a SOLUTION to the issues, and not just TALK about the issue. 6. What do you see as your greatest strengths, and what positive additions can you bring to this board? My passion for my children's education and the success of all of their peers is one of my greatest

strengths. My heartfelt concern for the educators and all that they face is also one of my passions. The

fact that I know that our school's success rely's on EVERYONE involved in the education of our students,

and that the Board is not to be used to advance my own personal agenda is definitely another one of my

strengths. I attended a very successful high school and an ivy-league college, so I have been exposed to

what it takes to bring our school up to another level of excellence. Lastly, because of my cultural

heritage, I can fairly speak and represent ALL cultures, which is another one of my strengths. I believe in

JICHS, and I know together, we can go higher.

2014 Board Applicant Cox

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Marcus Cox Email: Drwar2002@gmail.com Resident: Charleston, South Carolina Occupation: Associate Dean at The Citadel Experience with K-12 Education, Parent/Legal Guardian of JICHS Student, Resident of SC College and Training: Bachelors of Science and Master's of Arts degrees, Southern University and A&M College Masters of Business Administration and Doctor of Philosophy, The Citadel and Northwestern University South Carolina Association of Public Charter Schools Board Training 1. Why do you want to serve on the James Island Charter High School Board of Directors? I have always been a strong proponent of a quality education. As a Father, college administrator and professor, I believe that the value of a good education has never been more important today. James Island Charter High School (JICHS) offers students the unique opportunity to receive an International Baccalaureate (IB) degree, which reflects a high quality, international educational experience. In addition, JICHS has a long history of providing a quality education to countless students in Charleston County for many decades. It is an award winning secondary school focused on providing a safe environment, diverse curriculum, and rewarding extracurricular activities that are transformative. I am motivated by JICHS past success and the desire to contribute to that rich legacy and future challenges through sound governance, thoughtful strategic planning, and realistic goals and benchmarks. 2. Describe your work and volunteer background and how it prepares you to be a member of the school board. Over the past ten years, I have devoted a great deal of time and energy to the success of students in Charleston County School District, and several community service organizations. I have served as Chairman of the Governance Board of Charleston Development Academy Charter School, 2008-2009, Advisory Committee Member on the Charleston County School District Superintendent’s Plan for Excellence, 2004-2005, Board of Directors of the Coastal Community Foundation, 2011-2014, Board of the Directors at Nassau Street Learning Center, Charleston, SC, 2007, and Guest Speaker on various student programs and celebrations at Military Magnet Academy, Buist Academy for Advanced Studies, Sanders-Clyde Middle School, and Burke Middle and High School. More recently, I was asked to serve on the Charleston County School District Boyz To Gentlemen Advisory Committee to contribute to the design and implementation of Boyz to Gentlemen Academies and Mentoring Programs throughout Charleston County highlighting issues of academic achievement, discipline, and improved engagement, specifically with African American and Latino/Hispanic male students. As a college administrator and professor of history at The Citadel, I have extensive knowledge and experience working with community and technical colleges and 4-year higher education institutions throughout the State.

2014 Board Applicant Cox

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3. Define the difference between your responsibilities as a board member and the responsibilities of the Principal. The James Island Charter High School terms of agreement explicitly empowers the Board of Directors to manage the business and affairs of JICHS. More specifically, the Board shall sign school contracts, ensure compliance with requirements for a charter school and with all Federal and South Carolina laws, maintain a positive relationship with Charleston County School District, develop strategic plans, adopt and approve the annual budget, exercise oversight of curriculum, and assist in fund raising for school athletics and activities. On the other hand, the Principal of JICHS has oversight responsibilities of the day-to-day operations which includes curriculum and budgetary issues, the implementation of learning programs, teacher evaluations, extra-curricular activities, school schedules, and other matters delegated by the Board of Directors. Therefore, I do not believe in micro-managing the Principal in relation to his/her duties and responsibilities. The Principal should feel that he/she has a certain level of autonomy and independence to exercise professional judgment. If the Board of Directors are unsatisfied with the job performance of the Principal, it will then pursue a pre-determined process to correct such behavior and implement a plan to move forward. The Board of Directors and Principal must work together in a spirit of mutual respect and cooperation in order to reach institutional goals and achieve student success. 4. What do you consider to be the most important issue for the school and school board to focus on in the upcoming years? James Island Charter High School is a community-centric public school that provides education and facilities for the community. Parents, teachers, and local community leaders govern it. That being said, it is very important that the school board operate with transparency and a mutual respect for all constituents. Parents, community leaders, and JICHS faculty and staff should always feel welcome to attend in board meetings, actively participate, and feel free to advocate for specific initiatives and policies. Given the nature and purpose of charter schools, this is absolutely essential to the future success and viability of the school. Public mistrust or apathy is detrimental to the mission of JICHS and the ability of members of the Board of Directors to fulfill their fiduciary responsibilities. School governance should start with transparency, accountability, and a genuine spirit of cooperation and respect. 5. What do you see as the most important factors affecting student achievement? What is your role - what will you do - as a school board member to bring about improvement in these areas? I believe that student achievement is predicated on several things. First, students should have the opportunity to learn in a safe, clean, and orderly environment. School security is of the utmost importance. Students should be protected from internal and external threats and predators and be completely free of acts of harassment. Second, JICHS should employ faculty that are committed, energetic, and focused on student achievement. School faculty and staff have tremendous influence on students and their potential success and therefore should conduct themselves with a high level of integrity, professionalism, and respect. Academic curriculum is also associated with student achievement. JICHS should work to expose students to an academic curriculum that not only educates them, but helps prepare students for educational pursuits at technical colleges and 4-year higher education institutions.

2014 Board Applicant Cox

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As a school board member, I believe that each of those areas should be assessed on a regular basis to achieve optimal success. Fortunately, I have extensive professional experience in strategic planning, marketing strategy, budgeting, accountability, and curriculum development and assessment. I am prepared to use my knowledge and experience to assist JICHS Board of Directors to ensure that all students are provided the opportunity to receive a high quality education and foundation that prepares them for future success. 6. What do you see as your greatest strengths, and what positive additions can you bring to this board? I believe that my education, experience as Chairman of the Governance Board at Charleston

Development Academy Charter School, and support of Charleston County School District Schools in

numerous ways makes me uniquely qualified to serve on the Board of Directors at James Island Charter

High School. Moreover, I am passionate about the importance of a quality education and offer a

valuable perspective on academic preparation for success at community and technical colleges as well

as 4-year and graduate higher education institutions. In the past I have received South Carolina

Association of Public Charter Schools board training and have attended many workshops focused on

development strategies for charter schools, fundraising, and board accountability. My professional

experience, education, and knowledge of South Carolina Higher Education can be a valuable resource

for the Board of Directors, administration, and faculty at James Island Charter High School.

2014 Board Applicant Glaze

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Gettys Glaze Email: gettysglaze@gmail.com Resident: Charleston, South Carolina Occupation: Self Employed at GARSAD LLC Experience with business, Parent/Legal Guardian of JICHS Student, Resident of SC College and Training: BA Business Administration, The Citadel President of Charleston Trident MLS, President of John Wesley UMC Staff Parish Commttee 1. Why do you want to serve on the James Island Charter High School Board of Directors? I grew up on James Island, went to public school my entire life on James Island, graduated from JIHS in 1988, will have 2 children that will graduate from JICHS. I do the majority of my real estate business on James Island. I care about the school and the community that we all live in and raise children in. We need rational, business minded individuals that know how to listen and make the best decisions for our kids the future graduates of JI. It's not about one student, it's about ALL students. 2. Describe your work and volunteer background and how it prepares you to be a member of the school board. 14 years of Real estate sales and working with many of the people of James Island. Past President of the Charleston Realtors MLS Board Past President of John Wesley United Methodist Staff Parish Committee- Vast experience dealing with different personalities in my business. 3. Define the difference between your responsibilities as a board member and the responsibilities of the Principal. The principal runs the day to day of the school operation and the Board is there to help the Principal do his/her job with the oversight of larger/long range issues of the school. 4. What do you consider to be the most important issue for the school and school board to focus on in the upcoming years? The growth of the student population, upgrading facilities, and producing graduates that can make a difference when they leave the school. 5. What do you see as the most important factors affecting student achievement? What is your role - what will you do - as a school board member to bring about improvement in these areas? accountability, ownership by the student for achievement. Provide the teachers and staff with the necessary tools to let them do their jobs.

2014 Board Applicant Glaze

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6. What do you see as your greatest strengths, and what positive additions can you bring to this board? Honesty

Fairness to all parties

Discipline

Reliability

Open-Mindness

2014 Board Applicant Lee

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Gary Lee Email: gary@cleaningsolutionsllc.net Resident: Charleston, South Carolina Occupation: Owner at Cleaning Solutions & Supplies, LLC Experience with business, Parent/Legal Guardian of JICHS Student, Resident of SC College and Training: College of Charleston Small business owner, served on John Wesley UMC's Board of Trustees 1. Why do you want to serve on the James Island Charter High School Board of Directors? I am a lifelong James Island resident, a 1982 graduate of Ft. Johnson High School, I have two children who are JICHS graduates, one who is a current JICHS student, and one who is a future JICHS student. I have a vested interest in the direction in which this school is headed and making sure that we properly and thoughtfully plan and prepare for the future. 2. Describe your work and volunteer background and how it prepares you to be a member of the school board. I am a small business owner which means that I am familiar with budgets, personnel issues, logistics, risk management, and contract negotiations. I am also a member of John Wesley United Methodist Church where I have served on the Board of Trustees. This Board is responsible for the oversight, maintenance, and care of all real property owned by the church. I have been a sponsor and volunteer for the James Island Recreation Complex on and off for the past 18 years, coaching baseball, basketball, and football. I have also coached basketball teams for Stiles Point Elementary. 3. Define the difference between your responsibilities as a board member and the responsibilities of the Principal. It is my opinion that the Principal should primarily be responsible for all the duties required to run a successful high school. These duties would include, but not be limited to, personnel selection and assignment, developing and maintaining successful extracurricular programs, providing leadership for the planning and implementation of the school's curriculum, and taking the necessary steps to achieve the highest possible student success rate. It is also my opinion that the Board's primary responsibility is to be a source of support for the principal and the school by maintaining a steady, but not overbearing, degree of involvement in school issues and concerns. By the principal taking a proactive type of leadership role he/she would keep the board engaged and informed and supportive. I believe that monthly board meetings that are open to the public are important and should contain regular reports of school activities.

2014 Board Applicant Lee

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4. What do you consider to be the most important issue for the school and school board to focus on in the upcoming years? I do believe that open and honest communication is important. The more information that is made available to the JICHS parents by the school's leadership, the more effective that leadership will be in implementing necessary changes or improvements. We need to find the right balance as we focus on improving the educational opportunities and achievement of the students, facility improvements and upkeep, and support for the extra-curricular and athletic programs of the school. 5. What do you see as the most important factors affecting student achievement? What is your role - what will you do - as a school board member to bring about improvement in these areas? I think we need to look for ways to get students excited and more engaged in school activities. The latest in educational trends and curriculum need to be assessed and considered to allow more students the opportunity to succeed in the classroom. We need a winning attitude from the principal, the board members, the teachers, and the coaches which will have a positive effect on the students and the parents. My role as a board member will be to listen to what the principal's needs or concerns are and decide how to best support him/her while also taking logical parent input into consideration. 6. What do you see as your greatest strengths, and what positive additions can you bring to this board? My greatest strengths are my loyalty and the experience that I've gained and lessons I've learned from

being a business owner for the last 16 years. I have a vested interest in James Island Charter High School

that goes way back and will continue well into the future. This gives me the incentive to be actively

supportive of this school and its leadership by serving on its governing board.

2014 Board Applicant Pendergist

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Dennis Pendergist Email: dpendergist@comcast.net Resident: Charleston, South Carolina Occupation: Senior Homeland Security Anlayst/Operational Trainer at Savannah River national Laboratory Experience with business, Experience with K-12 Education, Parent/Legal Guardian of JICHS Student, Resident of SC College and Training: BA in Political Science, Univerosty of Oklahoma MS in Management, Troy University 1. Why do you want to serve on the James Island Charter High School Board of Directors? I have served on the JICHS Disciplinary Board for the past four years and have made a positive difference. I have also volunteered as the JV Football announcer, All-Sports Booster Club member and Varsity Football scoreboard operator. I have built strong relationships with the student body, administration and members of the faculty. These relationships and experience will give me the credibility and background I need to allow me to make an even stronger and more positive impact as a member of the school board. 2. Describe your work and volunteer background and how it prepares you to be a member of the school board. I have served on the JICHS Disciplinary Board for the past four years and have made a positive difference. I have also volunteered as the JV Football announcer, All-Sports Booster Club member and Varsity Football scoreboard operator. 3. Define the difference between your responsibilities as a board member and the responsibilities of the Principal. The board is responsible for the long term sustainment and strategic direction of the school. The principle is responsible for the day to day operations of the school and carrying out the long term plan to make the school successful. 4. What do you consider to be the most important issue for the school and school board to focus on in the upcoming years? The most important issue for the school today is improving facilities and providing the best possible environment for learning.

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5. What do you see as the most important factors affecting student achievement? What is your role - what will you do - as a school board member to bring about improvement in these areas? Students should be challenged and taught by teachers who are their because they love to teach. Teachers should do everything in their power to establish an effective learning environment free from distractions and full of attainable goals for each student.The board should take a more active role to ensure quality teachers are present at JICHS. Students should be provided better guidance on what lies ahead of them as far as possible college majors, careers and other learning opportunities. JICHS should have more opportunities to take college level courses through the various colleges and universities in our area. Students should also be made more aware of opportunities to take course work including Advance Placement courses on line. The board should set forth a plan to build relationships with area colleges and universities to enable more interaction with JICHS students. 6. What do you see as your greatest strengths, and what positive additions can you bring to this board? My strengths are team building, interpersonal relationships, and having a goal of making a positive

difference for all involved in JICHS.

As stated above, I have built strong relationships with the student body, administration and members of

the faculty. These relationships and experience will give me the credibility and background I need to

allow me to make an even stronger and more positive impact as a member of the school board. I believe

with recent positive improvements in many areas of JICHS, it is headed in the right direction and has the

right senior leaders to make that happen.

2014 Board Applicant Peterson Hutto

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Anne Peterson Hutto Email: anne@peterson-hutto.com Resident: Charleston, South Carolina Occupation: Government Affairs/Attorney at SC Coastal Conservation League Experience with business, Experience with K-12 Education, Parent/Legal Guardian of JICHS Student, Resident of SC College and Training: Bachelor of Arts in Government & International Affairs and History, University of Notre Dame Juris Doctor, Brooklyn Law School 1. Why do you want to serve on the James Island Charter High School Board of Directors? I have been involved with JICHS since my time in the South Carolina House of Representatives from 2008-2010. I am now proudly a JICHS parent, with a freshman son, Matthew. I both want to continue to give to and to serve the James Island community that I have come to love so dearly in the nearly 18 years I have lived here and to help chart school policy for the education of our children and the future of their school. 2. Describe your work and volunteer background and how it prepares you to be a member of the school board. I am attorney by education and background and currently work in Government Relations for the SC Coastal Conservation League. I also represented James Island and Folly Beach in the SC House of Representatives (District 115) from 2008-2010, during which time I became familiar with JICHS and the terrific people who are part of it. While in the House, I worked extensively on charter school and education issues with other legislators and advocates in the state charter school community. I live on James Island, but work in Columbia when the legislature is in session and remain well-connected to my friends in state politics. My oldest son, Matthew, is a freshman at JICHS in the pre-IB program(and slightly horrified that I have offered for the Board). My daughter, Adrianne, a 7th grader, attends Ashley Hall School. Previously, I ran a solo law practice in West Ashley and on James Island for six and a half years. I worked as a prosecutor for the 1st Circuit Solicitor's office. I have volunteered at both of my children's schools, primarily by fundraising, mentoring and speaking. I was a Cub Scout den leader for several years. I have been a member of the board of PACT(Parents and Children Together) and the Charleston Stage Company and serve in the SC Bar's House of Delegates. I regularly speak to community groups on the subject of "how to talk to your legislator." My father is a retired English Literature professor and my mother is a retired 1st and 3rd grade teacher. Education and education policy ha been part of the dinner table conversation my entire life.

2014 Board Applicant Peterson Hutto

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3. Define the difference between your responsibilities as a board member and the responsibilities of the Principal. As board members, we would be governing and setting policy, and if, necessary hiring and firing certain positions. The Principal, and his staff would implement the policy, and carry out the policy. We act as the governing board, and the principal is effectively the executive director. He is in charge of the school, and the staff and students answer to him, but, ultimately, he answers to the board. 4. What do you consider to be the most important issue for the school and school board to focus on in the upcoming years? The most important issue facing any school should always be providing the highest quality education to its students and preparing those students for either college and beyond or entry into the work force. We will also continue, as a charter school, to face funding and legislative challenges and we need to be prepared to secure the resources our students deserve. 5. What do you see as the most important factors affecting student achievement? What is your role - what will you do - as a school board member to bring about improvement in these areas? Student achievement is affected by the quality of teaching, the school environment, its resources and the support the students receive at school. It is also affected by the support they receive at home and from their peers. We need to strengthen the relationships between the teachers, students and parents and work to foster strong supportive relationships among the students. Reducing bullying is a component of this. We also need to work to secure the funding our charter school deserves, increasing its resources and the opportunities for our students as we do so. 6. What do you see as your greatest strengths, and what positive additions can you bring to this board? My greatest strengths are my intelligence, experience, love of my children and the desire to make JICHS

and our community the best places they can possibly be. My unique experience as a legislator, public

servant, businessperson and advocate make me well suited to serve our school.

2014 Board Applicant Poff

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John Poff Email: jpoff61@att.net Resident: Charleston, South Carolina Occupation: Operating Partner at Monomoy Capital Partners Experience with business, Parent/Legal Guardian of JICHS Student, Resident of SC College and Training: Lexington Technical Institue Lafayette Senior High School 1. Why do you want to serve on the James Island Charter High School Board of Directors? 1) Help in developing the overall student body to understand importance of educational programs & the application into college & business applications 2) Create a future for JICHS in new educational programs that will be forward thinking of new markets in business 3) Develop creative hands on applications that allow students to go into real businesses & gain hands on experiences in 360 programs that show the students the business from all sides. 4) Generate profit centers with in the school to improve the educational process , give teachers improved class rooms , technology applications , increase community activity & programs 2. Describe your work and volunteer background and how it prepares you to be a member of the school board. 1) Able to manage in various business structures with little historical knowledge of businesses & its past performance 2) Able to bring businesses forward from under performing to financially high performing businesses 3) Previously volunteered with Junior Achievement Programs in Kentucky & supported thru Toyota to multiple schools & grade levels. 3. Define the difference between your responsibilities as a board member and the responsibilities of the Principal. 1) Become a working Board member with the principal to help deliver on goals and targets of the approved projects from the Principal 2) Assist in finding alternatives to increase funding for the school in education , athletics & community service programs 3) Create a team that the Principal has the ability to work thru that can take on challenges for the current year but can set a path of planning for 1 , 3 & 5 years that can be followed , modified & adopted to better JICHS

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4. What do you consider to be the most important issue for the school and school board to focus on in the upcoming years? 1) Establish clear development plans for the future that focus on current year & 3 and 5 years out 2) Planning for future growth from the economic up turn in Charleston & surrounding communities ,3) Work with larger corporate businesses to be a community leader in educating students & preparing students for opportunities in these business ,4) Improved student health & wellness programs that can translate to parents & siblings to get active and understand the importance of a healthy lifestyle 5. What do you see as the most important factors affecting student achievement? What is your role - what will you do - as a school board member to bring about improvement in these areas? 1) Bridge to higher education or immediate career paths - Work with students , educators & corporate businesses to increase the knowledge of the paths outside of JICHS 2) Improve funding for education , athletic programs & career path acceleration applications Work with current programs & develop new programs to sponsor creative funding projects with targeted corporate sponsors , innovate fundraising for JICHS that will gain community involvement etc... Work with larger sponsors to increase funding into all sports programs , participate at lower grade levels to encourage development of future athletics , create sports in the community program to increase awareness of programs needs & encourage JICHS support Develop 360 work program so students can experience work , develop understanding of there personal goals , hands on personal budgeting etc.... 6. What do you see as your greatest strengths, and what positive additions can you bring to this board? 1) Worked in major corporate environment with Toyota in my previous career

2) Currently work in Private Equity - Effective in managing distressed businesses , able to restructure

through various measures and return businesses to profitable & sustainable profit & cash levels.

3) High level communicator that understands how to get everyone involved to gain agreement & set

paths to solutions

4) Able to assess situations & set problem solving priorities in place to address issues at hand

5) Manage businesses in various size from 500 to 1000 employees , with revenues of 150m plus

2014 Board Applicant Tempel

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Carol Tempel Email: carol_tempel@bellsouth.net Resident: Charleston, South Carolina Occupation: Retired, educator at Experience with business, Experience with K-12 Education, Resident of SC College and Training: B.A., Augustana College M.A.; Ed.D., California State University at Los Angeles; Nova Southeastern University I served on the SC Environmental Education Board, several community organizations, and my church vestry board. 1. Why do you want to serve on the James Island Charter High School Board of Directors? As a resident of James Island I care that students living on our island have a high quality education that prepares them for the workplace and their careers. Education is the key to students' future success and I feel it is the responsibility of the parents, teachers, and the community to ensure students attend a school that provides them with a high quality education. At this time, I'd like to offer my services to help JICHS be the best that it can be for our island's students. 2. Describe your work and volunteer background and how it prepares you to be a member of the school board. My life's work has been in education as a middle and high school teacher, a constituent school board member, a curriculum specialist for math, science and technology, and a school-based administrator. As a parent my husband and I volunteered in our children's schools on James Island. We have mentored students as recently as last year at James Island Middle School. We volunteer at the Low country Food Bank to prepare book bags of food for underprivileged children to take home on weekends. We also are participating in the Charleston Justice Area Ministry to address the needs of students in the community, especially pre-school education, juvenile justice, and employment opportunities for young people. All of these experiences give me an understanding of how high quality schools operate to meet the educational needs of students and teachers.

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3. Define the difference between your responsibilities as a board member and the responsibilities of the Principal. The board's responsibility is to act in ways that help the school accomplish its mission. Specifically, the board members work together to set policy. According to the charter, the board has oversight of a curriculum that meets the needs of the students, a school that exercises fair and consistent disciplinary practices, a school that complies with federal and state laws for operating public schools, works to promote positive working relationships among the staff of the school, parents, and the community, assists with the development of strategic plans, and ensures that the budget, hiring practices, and resources meet the educational needs of students. As stated in the charter: professional educators are in charge of the school and are expected to exercise best practices. 4. What do you consider to be the most important issue for the school and school board to focus on in the upcoming years? It is always important to keep the focus on the educational programs offered by the school. Without the resources, personnel, and facilities, teachers cannot offer students the most up to date use of educational materials and technology. As a member of the board, I would work with the school to assess its needs and work with the board to meet those needs. 5. What do you see as the most important factors affecting student achievement? What is your role - what will you do - as a school board member to bring about improvement in these areas? The goal of JICHS should be to graduate every student and provide all students with a program of studies that prepares them for their future jobs and careers. It is important for the board to help the school assess students' and teachers' needs, examine school achievement data, and seek input from parents and staff. This means that the school board must ensure teachers have the resources and facilities needed for effective teaching. 6. What do you see as your greatest strengths, and what positive additions can you bring to this board? I have some unique experiences and skills that I can bring to the JICHS board.

As an educator with experiences in K-12 education, I know what helps schools achieve a high quality

education for all students.

As a business owner, I understand what employers are looking for when they hire. In my work and

volunteer activities, I've worked collaboratively with others to make decisions and creatively solve

problems.

I'd like to participate on the JICHS board as a community partner who cares about ensuring students on

James Island have a high quality education.

2014 Board Applicant Whaley

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Clarissa Walker Whaley Email: clarissawalkerwhaley@gmail.com Resident: Charleston, South Carolina Occupation: Federal Program Manager at US Department of Justice- U.S. Attorney's Office Experience with business, Experience with K-12 Education, Parent/Legal Guardian of JICHS Student, Resident of SC College and Training: Bacher of Science, University of South Carolina - School of Criminal Justice Professional Enhancement, College of Charleston -School of Public Administration USDOJ- Program Managers Certifications/Instructor w/National Advocacy Ctr;SCANPO (SC Association Non-Profit Organization) Certified Training 1. Why do you want to serve on the James Island Charter High School Board of Directors? First and foremost, "For the Sake of our Children." As a life long advocate for our schools (teachers, students and parents), I believe it is possible to achieve excellence in education for all students. As a former JICHS Disciplinary Review Committee member and Board Member/Chair, I have seen the challenges of education faced by committed educators, parents and students, and I remain both passionate and optimistic that excellence is achievable. 2. Describe your work and volunteer background and how it prepares you to be a member of the school board. As a program manager and certfied paralegal, I have the acquired education and professional expertise to fulful the requirements of a board member. I have daily management oversight for a federal program with fiduary and statutory requirements that serves the citizens of S.C. As a volunteer, I currently serve as Board Member of a domestic violence organizations that serve women and children in the tri-county area; Member of the Tri-County Victims Council, Member of the SC State Drug Endangered Childrens Task Force; actively serve in leadership positions with St. James Presbyterian Church, Charleston Atlantic Presbytery and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. 3. Define the difference between your responsibilities as a board member and the responsibilities of the Principal. It is my understanding that the role of Board of Directors (BOD) is to be skilled and knowlegdgeable in overseeing the Policy and Guidelines of the Organization (JICHS)as authorized by the SC Charter Law and as contracted and administered through the SC Charter School Alliance. All, in accordance with the JICHS By-Laws. In responsibilty to the above, the BOD has the duty to oversee effectively the fiduary, programmatic and stewardship operations of the school. Additionally, the BOD must assess the organization's progress in meeting its identified educational goals and objectives.The BOD must work together, not individually, in the spirit of the success of the school. The role of the Principal, as the Adminstrator. authorized by the BOD, has day to day oversight and management of the staff, curriculum and wholeness of the school to ensure its operation and compliancy to required guidelines.

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The Board of Directors and Principal should work together cohesively for the success of the Organization (JICHS). 4. What do you consider to be the most important issue for the school and school board to focus on in the upcoming years? Effectively monitoring the renovations and build out of the campus, ensuring the safety and an environment conducive to teaching and learning. 5. What do you see as the most important factors affecting student achievement? What is your role - what will you do - as a school board member to bring about improvement in these areas? Students need to be motivated to achieve. I would support efforts to allow teachers to use innovative and creative methods to encourage students to be engaged and excited about learning. Also, I would propose methods to encourage increased support by parents and the community to ensure the success of our students. Engagement by all, teacher, parents and stakeholders is the key. 6. What do you see as your greatest strengths, and what positive additions can you bring to this board? My strengths are my ability to lead with integrity, commitment and passion. This is what I have brought

to my service to our community and JICHS; and is what I will continue to do, if given the opportunity. tt

2014 Board Applicant White

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Pam White Email: jackzan@comcast.net Resident: Charleston, South Carolina Occupation: School Counselor at Experience with business, Experience with K-12 Education, Parent/Legal Guardian of JICHS Student, Resident of SC College and Training: Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, University of South Carolina Master of Education in Counseling, University of South Carolina Extensive post-graduate training, SC Licensed Professional Counselor, Nationally Certified Rehabilitation Counselor 1. Why do you want to serve on the James Island Charter High School Board of Directors? My son, Jackson, is a sophomore at JICHS, and our family feels blessed to be a part of this school family. As a long-time James Island resident, I am interested in partnering with my fellow parents, teachers, administrators, coaches and the community to serve the school to help meet the needs of all students. As a school counselor and spouse of a teacher, I understand the importance of strong academic planning and collaboration. I believe the board should give a voice to all to make fair and transparent decisions that will benefit all students, both now and in the future. 2. Describe your work and volunteer background and how it prepares you to be a member of the school board. My work as a licensed professional counselor and school counselor allows me to work effectively and collaboratively with administration, students, parents, teachers, coaches, and the community to advocate for the best interest of JICHS students. My volunteer work includes: former PTO board member, church youth leader and Christian education teacher, and former assistant youth coach. This enables me to understand the inner workings of a school, related to academics, budgets, school law, and staffing, as well as various student and parent concerns. I also understand the importance of athletic and other extra-curricular pursuits on the well-being of the whole child. 3. Define the difference between your responsibilities as a board member and the responsibilities of the Principal. The roles of the principal and the board are set forth by the charter, and should be respected as such. They should be seen as a collaborative effort, with both working for the benefit of the students and the school as a whole. The board should both serve and support the principal, while providing oversight that allows for checks and balances. I do not believe that this involves micro-managing aspects that are beyond the boards¿ expertise or that represent a particular individual¿s personal agenda. Transparency and communication should be important parts of the process.

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4. What do you consider to be the most important issue for the school and school board to focus on in the upcoming years? The most important issues include coping with the growth of the student population while maintaining and improving our school facility. We want to ensure that a larger student population does not impact our current high academic standards and positive learning environment. We need to work closely with our sponsoring district, CCSD, on the current building program and hopefully, an extension of the program that is carried out in a timely and efficient manner. Additionally, in light of school funding challenges at the state level, we must ensure that JICHS remains financially secure to deal with the uncertainty of the future. 5. What do you see as the most important factors affecting student achievement? What is your role - what will you do - as a school board member to bring about improvement in these areas? I believe the most important factors in student achievement that can be impacted by the board are: keeping the student teacher ratio at appropriate levels, providing support for teachers, ensuring a safe school environment, providing access to adequate facilities and technology, providing access to athletic / fine arts / extra-curricular activities that encourage student interest and wellness, and encouraging parent involvement at all levels. Several ways to encourage communication, for example, would be for the board to post contact information for board members, to post agendas for meetings, and to host periodic pre-meeting open discussion periods with JICHS board members. 6. What do you see as your greatest strengths, and what positive additions can you bring to this board? I have a master’s degree in education, and experience as a school counselor which gives me knowledge

of education at most levels. I am a parent of sons at both JICHS and Clemson, and am also the spouse of

a teacher. I am an effective problem-solver, and can bring people of diverse backgrounds and beliefs

together to collaborate toward a common goal of the betterment of all JICHS students. I believe JICHS

belongs to all of our students and our community and needs to represent us all, with transparency, and

not just the interests and desires of a small minority.

2014 Board Applicant

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Wilkins

Abby Wilkins Email: abby.wilkins@comcast.net Resident: Charleston, Sc Occupation: Registered Nurse at MUSC Experience with business, Experience with K-12 Education, Resident of SC College and Training: Associates, Trident Technical College 1. Why do you want to serve on the James Island Charter High School Board of Directors? I grew up on James Island, went to Fort Johnson High School, and still live on James Island. I want to give back to my community and represent the students, faculty, and students at James Island Charter High. I want to be part of the success of the growth of the school. 2. Describe your work and volunteer background and how it prepares you to be a member of the school board. I am a registered nurse. I am an advocate for the patient and family. I am the liason between the doctor and patient at times. I have to read the unspoken and make sure that I use my critical thinking skills to make the most critical decisions. I want the best for my patient just like I want the best for this school. I have a very strong work ethic and committed to my responsibilities. I am a mother and wife. I would treat the students, faculty, and parents with the respect that is deserved and to strive for the very best school. 3. Define the difference between your responsibilities as a board member and the responsibilities of the Principal. The principal will oversee the day to day operations at the school. The board will set structures. The board will provide a positive and effective school environment. The board will oversee the curriculum and instructional improvements that will make the school a success. I feel the board should work closely with the principal and work as a team. 4. What do you consider to be the most important issue for the school and school board to focus on in the upcoming years? The most important issue for the school and the school board is to focus on the success of the school

and the education of the students. Educational improvement is the most important issue because the

board is all about the students.

2014 Board Applicant

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Wilkins 5. What do you see as the most important factors affecting student achievement? What is your role - what will you do - as a school board member to bring about improvement in these areas? I feel the achievement of the students are based on numerous things. The environment at the school, families, faculty, social incentives, and socioeconomic conditions. My role is to do research on all of the affecting factors and try to improve on all. I will build character in the student and the school by finding what works, how it works, and build on that. I will involve the student, parent, community, and faculty. We need to get input for all involved parties and set goals and meet these goals. Board Meetings should be at times that are convenient for as many people to come and be involved in order for every voice to be heard. 6. What do you see as your greatest strengths, and what positive additions can you bring to this board? My strengths are professionalism, compassion, dedication, commitment, critical thinking skills, and my

listening skills. I will bring teamwork, agendas, that are aimed to make our students and the school one

of the best schools in the state.

2014 Board Applicant

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KWilliams

Kent Williams Email: pastorkent316@aol.com Resident: Charleston, South Carolina Occupation: Pastor of youth/missions at Ashley River Baptist Church Experience with business, Experience with K-12 Education, Parent/Legal Guardian of JICHS Student, Resident of SC College and Training: Bachelor of Arts, Furman University Master of Arts, Southwestern Theological Seminary 1. Why do you want to serve on the James Island Charter High School Board of Directors? I have had the opportunity of working and serving various communities for over 30 years. My focus in that has been working and serving students, parents of students and those whom influence them both. The JICHS school board has a unique opportunity to serve the James Island/Charleston community to help the school accomplish her purpose as stated by the charter. I believe I have a servant attitude that will work well with the administration, teachers, parents, students and the community. 2. Describe your work and volunteer background and how it prepares you to be a member of the school board. I have served as a Pastor working with Students for over 30 years. I have worked in churches from 800 to over 5,000 members. I have also served on various non-profit boards, served as a Substitute teacher in the school system, serve as volunteer school Chaplin on various campuses and given support to various school based clubs, teams, programs and events. 3. Define the difference between your responsibilities as a board member and the responsibilities of the Principal. Board members are responsible for the long term sustainability of the school. The role of the board is to advance the mission of the school by governing with policies which ensure the school complies with state regulations regarding charter schools in South Carolina and by ensuring the school is fiscally sound. The principal is responsible for the day to day facilitation of this purpose. The board should work hand in hand with the principal, administration and teachers to accomplish the above. 4. What do you consider to be the most important issue for the school and school board to focus on in the upcoming years? without hesitation, while the school board is an entity for governance, fiscal oversight and strategic planning the most important issue for the school board to focus on is education. Research and inquiry will prove insightful, but from my perspective, the school board has an opportunity to support the best approach to encourage and educate the students at JICHS in the most effective, safe and productive way possible. Included as part of that is an appropriate balance of student life in the development of a student's self worth, identity, integrity, honesty, good decision making and team work. Research proves that when a student has the proper, but unique, motivation, educational process is most likely to succeed.

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KWilliams 5. What do you see as the most important factors affecting student achievement? What is your role - what will you do - as a school board member to bring about improvement in these areas? While assuring the best quality environment and resources to promote the education of the students is most important there are factors that are still inhibiting students from reaching their best possible educational outcome. The home environment remains the most influential voice into the educational road map and often this voice is not supportive for lack of understanding of that role. The best communication possible, involvement and interactive partnership should be maximized as long as there remains a possibility that support can be marshaled. Teachers and parents are well equipped to employ the bridge of communication and many are now enjoying these benefits of such teamwork at JICHS. Finding ways to elevate and encourage this more may be an important consideration. As for-mentioned, maximizing student life could be an asset to consider possible evaluation. 6. What do you see as your greatest strengths, and what positive additions can you bring to this board? I am a team player. Peaceful, listening and pro-active. Decisiveness is important. Swiftness is often as

important as time to contemplate, therefore a balance in decision making is important and having the

wisdom to know the appropriate times to initiate such. I believe I am gifted in listening, encouraging

and supporting the decisions that are best determined to be the solution. I like teenagers, parents and

those who work with them. I have committed my life to be a student of teenagers and have gained a

wealth of knowledge in problem solving, challenges and enjoyed success. Student culture is on the

constant move, therefore a continuous evaluation of any culture and the process of education is

important in the decision making strategies of a school board. This is by profession, my strength.

2014 Board Applicant Williams

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Ruth Williams Email: ministerruth@comcast.net Resident: Charleston, South Carolina Occupation: Travel Agent at Alexis Delightful Cruises Experience with business, Experience with K-12 Education, Resident of SC College and Training: Trident Morris College Ministerial Certificate Program 1. Why do you want to serve on the James Island Charter High School Board of Directors? I wish to serve on the board because as a part of this community I want to participate in the process which ensures that all students at James Island Charter High School receive the best educational experience that we can offer. 2. Describe your work and volunteer background and how it prepares you to be a member of the school board. As a minister, I have been involved in many community outreach activities that have provided basic necessities for those in need. Additionally, through my leadership, counseling services have been made available. 3. Define the difference between your responsibilities as a board member and the responsibilities of the Principal. As a board member, my responsibilities should be to oversee all budgetary,academic,and extra- curricular activities. The principal's responsibilities should be to report to the governance board and keep them apprised of the everyday functioning of the school. 4. What do you consider to be the most important issue for the school and school board to focus on in the upcoming years? I feel the most important issue to focus on for the upcoming years is improved performance among all groups of students. 5. What do you see as the most important factors affecting student achievement? What is your role - what will you do - as a school board member to bring about improvement in these areas? To me, the most important factor affecting student achievement is an engaging environment that promotes a sense of high achievement. As a school board member, I would work to maintain the quality staff and administration to provide the best academic, athletic and support programs for our students.

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6. What do you see as your greatest strengths, and what positive additions can you bring to this board? The greatest strengths are the teaching staff, the established academic and athletic programs.

The positive additions that I can bring to this board are to serve as a voice for the community and bring

forth the opinions and needs of the community.