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SC Superintendent of Education candidate profile: Molly Spearman [The Island Packet (Hilton Head Island, S.C.)](Island Packet (Hilton Head, SC) Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) Oct. 25--AUDIO -- Click here for a recording of Molly Spearman's Island Packet/Beaufort Gazette Editorial Board endorsement interview. Age: 60 Political party: Republican Office: S.C. Superintendent of Education Number of years living in the district you seek to represent: 50 years in South Carolina Family: Husband Bill Spearman, children Mitchell and Katie Education: Bachelor's at Lander University, master's at George Washington University, and education specialist at University of South Carolina Current occupation/employer: Executive director at the S.C. Association of School Administrators Employment, military and volunteer history: Eighteen years as a classroom teacher and assistant principal, four terms as a state legislator and six years as deputy superintendent at the S.C. Department of Education. Public offices held: Served four terms in the S.C. House of Representatives for District 39 Unsuccessful bids for public office: None Other prior political and government experience: None Key endorsements you've received: The (Columbia) State newspaper, the S.C. Association of Realtors, the S.C. Education Association Campaign contributions: $112,190 Campaign expenditures: $23,621.55 Biggest contributor: The SCEA Fund for Children and Public Education, the BB&T of S.C. PAC and seven others each contributed $3,500 Why should people vote for you? I have the extensive experience; a lifetime of trusted relationships with educators, parents, and community and business leaders; and a vision to move our K-12 system forward. I have worked in both urban and rural districts and understand the challenges and successes of our public education system. My leadership style will be positive and bring all stake-holders to the table so that we can work together to improve education in our state. What are the three most important issues you would address if elected? 1. Academic standards: We must first settle the standards issue. Currently, a group of South Carolina teachers is reviewing and writing new S.C. standards. I am optimistic that the product will be high, rigorous standards that will prepare our graduates for successful and productive citizenship. 2. A quality education for all students: We must continue to ensure that every child, no matter where they live, receives a quality education. This will be done through an emphasis on reading, technology, school safety, and high quality teacher instruction and principal leadership. 3. Creating the 21st century graduate: We must bring all South Carolinians together behind a common vision that supports the 21st century graduate. We must provide the content for students in an engaging manner so that students can take their knowledge and solve problems. They must also have the characteristics and social skills to be successful in the work force and life-long learning environments. What other issues do you see as important? --Early childhood education --Lifting the teaching profession What specific steps will you take to make government more open and accessible to the public? --Will hold open public meetings --Will provide financial information in a transparent format on the S.C. Department of Education website Have you ever been convicted of a felony, been disciplined by a professional licensing board or organization or had an ethics violation filed against you? If so, please give the details. No Have you ever filed for bankruptcy, had your mortgage foreclosed, or been delinquent on your federal, state or local taxes? If so, please give the details. No Are there any personal details about yourself that voters would be interested in knowing? I have volunteered with the Palmetto Girls State program for over 35 years. I served as president of the S.C. American Legion Auxiliary and as chairman of Girls Nation. ___ (c)2014 The Island Packet (Hilton Head, S.C.) Visit The Island Packet (Hilton Head, S.C.) at www.islandpacket.com Distributed by MCT Information Services |