Lexington County School District One Election Brings New Voices into the Mix
Lexington, SC, September 24, 2024 – We have some exciting news coming from the education front, especially for parents and students in Lexington County! Mariel Taylor, a dedicated mother and businesswoman, has thrown her hat into the ring for a seat on the Lexington County School District One’s Board of Trustees.
What’s at Stake?
Four seats are open for grabs in the upcoming General Election on November 5, 2024. Two of these seats became available because current board members have decided not to seek reelection, while the other two will be contested by trustees whose terms are expiring. Each term lasts four years, making this election particularly significant for the future of our student body.
An Educator at Heart
Mariel is not just another candidate; she has a heartfelt connection to the community. With two children – an 11th grader at Lexington High and a 3rd grader at New Providence Elementary – she brings personal experience and dedication to her role in advocating for education. Previously, she spent six years teaching in Lexington One and an additional four years in another district, which gives her a solid ten years of teaching experience.
After leaving the classroom, Taylor took on a new role as a Contractor Engagement Specialist at GordianTM. Here, she focuses on budget management and ensuring accountability in community projects. “This role has helped me hone my skills in tracking project progress and maintaining financial transparency,” she said.
Making a Difference in the Community
When Mariel isn’t working or looking after her children, she’s actively engaged in community service. From volunteering at a local animal shelter to providing assistance at homeless shelters, she believes in the power of community connection. Taylor loves attending local events, including the popular farmers’ markets in Lexington, where she meets and interacts with residents.
The Vision: Transparency and Support
One of Taylor’s key platforms is enhancing financial transparency within the district. “Taxpayers need to see where their money is going. It shouldn’t be hidden behind complex terms,” she explained. She feels current discussions about transparency often fall short and aims to change that.
Moreover, she emphasizes the importance of listening to teachers. Taylor recalls being overlooked when presenting methods to improve literacy for young students. “Evidence showed that our curriculum was not serving children well, especially in crucial early grades. I want to ensure educators feel heard and supported in their efforts,” she asserted.
Equity and Support for All Students
Another vital issue for her is ensuring equitable support across all schools in the district. “If any school feels it is not receiving fair resources, that issue must be urgently addressed,” she stated. Taylor advocates for early testing for dyslexia and proper training for teachers. She believes no child should struggle due to a lack of support in critical areas like reading.
Focus on Teachers’ Well-being
With many teachers feeling overwhelmed by excessive meetings and professional development, Taylor emphasizes the need for more instructional time. “We need to create a balanced system that allows our educators to prepare adequately for their students,” she said firmly. She also proposes implementing a three-strike behavior management system in classrooms, ensuring that disruptions are managed effectively.
Future Paths for Career and Technical Education
On the topic of career and technical education, Taylor expressed a strong belief in expanding programs like those offered at the Lexington Technology Center. “Our children are interested in hands-on skills, such as welding. We need to accommodate them better,” she urged, advocating for partnerships with local businesses to create more opportunities.
A Call for Change
In conclusion, Taylor feels the district is at a pivotal moment. “The decisions we make today will shape our schools for years to come. I am committed to turning our goals into achievements,” she said, calling for community involvement in the educational process. For those who want to learn more about her vision for our schools, she invites everyone to connect via her Facebook page or directly through email.
As the November elections approach, it’s essential for every member of the community to engage and explore who they believe will best advocate for the future of our children’s education. Let’s make our voices heard!
