School Board query

[jamestown1609]

Can anyone help me find out the high school and college education achievements of Nelson and Wilkerson? I want to inform myself about their education backgrounds before casting my vote next week.

[Jennifer Steele]

Can anyone help me find out the high school and college education achievements of Nelson and Wilkerson? I want to inform myself about their education backgrounds before casting my vote next week.

Check out the supervisor of elections website:
http://www.voterfocus.com/ws/WScand/...?c=walton&el=6

It offers reports/bios on every candidate.

[Jennifer Steele]

Robert Nelson, long time resident of Walton County, announced his candidacy for School Board District 1. Robert lives in Eucheeanna Valley. He relocated from Pensacola in 1979 with his father and step-mother, Bill and Martha Nelson. Robert, along with his brother Richard and sister Joanna had frequently visited the area staying with their grandparents, Max and Marian Marsh of the Paxton community. In 1984 Robert married Samantha Powell of the Glendale community, who is currently a 16 year educator with the Walton County School District. Their daughter, Amber Nicole, currently attends Okaloosa Walton College. Their son, Michael Wesley, will begin at Walton High School this school year.

Robert has worked hard within the community since moving into the area. While working in the family automobile business, he graduated from Walton High School and went on to Okaloosa Walton College. After his father retired from the automobile business and left the area, Robert and his wife of 24 years, have made a home for themselves and their children. Loving the people and area so much, Robert moved his mother, Carolyn Nelson here so that the family could spend more time together. Carolyn is currently employed as a non-instructional aide at Maude Saunders Elementary. She began working there to be with her grandson Michael, deciding to stay on after he left elementary grades to middle school. She fell in love with helping people and children of our community. After college, Robert went on to complete his Law Enforcement Standards at Okaloosa Walton College. He then took a job with an out of area engineering firm assisting with survey and data collection of Walton County for the new enhanced 9-1-1 system. This transitioned into a position with the Walton County Department of Public Safety, where Robert worked on the initial mapping and database project as they finished up the 9-1-1 system installation. This project took him to every road, driveway, and trail in Walton County where he gathered data and worked on creating the initial maps for the 9-1-1 system. The Department of Public Safety also handled emergency management. During the flooding from Tropical Storm Alberto and response and recovery efforts to Hurricane Opal, Robert became very familiar with many of the people in Walton County and surrounding areas.

Robert is currently the owner and operator of “I Fix Computers, Inc.” in downtown DeFuniak Springs. He built his business on his belief of giving back to the community. Through the years, Robert has been actively involved in many activities in the community such as the DeFuniak Springs Little League with his son Michael, working as a director with the DeFuniak Springs Business and Professional Association on the 4th of July Fireworks and Hometown Christmas activities. He is also currently volunteers on the Walton County Code Enforcement Board, and previously served on the Contractor’s Competency Board and the County Redistricting Committee. Robert’s work as former Chairman of the Walton County Republican Party has allowed him to build relationships with both local and state officials, which will be a great asset in making sure that the needs of Walton County get addressed in the future.

If elected to the Walton County School Board, Robert believes his business and technology experiences will give him a unique perspective of the needs of the children of Walton County. He will use these experiences to assist in finding and creating opportunities for our children so that they may stay and make a life and career for themselves in this area. “Having family currently employed within our educational system and a child that has recently graduated from, as well as one going into, a local public high school, I hear the needs regularly. As a school board member, I will be committed to working on those needs together with the children and community to make their school system the best that it can be in the State of Florida. My business puts me in touch with the people on a daily basis. They have told me where they want to see the school system head in the next several years, and I am prepared to take that direction as I work to bring a conservative voice back to the Walton County School Board.”

Robert can be reached at wrobertnelson@gmail.com or 850-401-4125.

MILDRED WILKERSON
PURPOSE STATEMENT

Helping to improve the education of students through effective policy making, promoting the
highest quality of standards for teachers, and ensuring a safe and productive learning environment.


CAREER SUMMARY

Educator
• Walton Middle School, DeFuniak Springs, FL - 33 years
• Chapel Hill Middle School, DeFuniak Springs, FL - 2 years
• Carver Jr. High School, Florala, AL - 1 year.

Professional
• School Board Member elected to the position in 2000 and currently serving.
• Walton County property Appraisers Value Adjustment board - 4 years and currently serving.
• Inaugural Athena Award Candidate, Walton County Chamber of Commerce
• Florida State Textbook Adoption Committee, Grades 9 - 12, 2006
• Girl Scouts of America, Board Member, West Florida, 2003-2006
• Walton County Retired Teachers Association, Member and president (elected 4 terms)
• Walton County Clerk of Court, Advisory Board (past member)
• United Professionals of Walton County, Past President.
• Pilot Club, DeFuniak Springs, Past Member
• Lifeline, Member Board of Directors
• Walton Middle School, Chairperson of 8th Grade - 19 years
• Walton Middle School, Chairperson of Science Department, 17 years
• School Accreditation Committee Member, was elected to serve two terms
• Walton County Middle School, Science Textbook Committee - served 6 years
• District School Improvement Committee, Walton County School District, past member
• Teacher of Year, Walton Middle School - voted on 3 separate years


EDUCATION
Resided in Walton County, Florida for more than 60 + years.
Certification
Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, Science, Grades 9 - 12
Degree
Florida Agriculture and Mechanical University, Tallahassee, FL, Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education
Diploma
Tivoli High School, DeFuniak Springs, FL, Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education
Other
Licensed Caterer (18 years) - enjoy cooking and entertaining; Lecturer/Speaker for various programs throughout the southeast region; Ladies Bible Class Teacher - Member Red Bay Church of Christ,
Red Bay, Florida

[Smiling JOe]

I may in the dark b/c I went to private school, but is it common for high-schools to issue Bachelor of Science degrees and have a specific field of study, such as "Elementary Education?" Are they really teaching high-school students to be teachers?

[Miss Kitty]

I may in the dark b/c I went to private school, but is it common for high-schools to issue Bachelor of Science degrees?

[Jdarg]

I think it is most likely a typo.

[Jennifer Steele]

I didn't notice that when I posted, but it's surely a typo.

[Jdarg]

I didn't notice that when I posted, but it's surely a typo.

Mildred has a great list of credentials and is running a classy, non-partisan, campaign.

[Interested Girl]

Mildred definitely has a good educational bio that suits her well when applying for a teaching position. Her education background provides very little when you look at the job description for a school board member. They have two roles setting policy after receiving a recommendation from the Supt. and adopting the budget.

What skill set from her past positions as a teacher gives her the skill set to understand budgets and financial funding straegies - none - she is a tax and spend democrat - plain and simple. She is also not running a non-partisan campaign - she sought and received the endorsement of te Democratic party.

Let m simply say " Sleep well - Hope is on the Way" What we need is a CHANGE - in leadership - not an insider but someone with new ideas and new insights into what our children and grandchildren need to compete. We don't need 35 year old ideas today.

Hope and Change will arrive on November 4th. That hope and change is embodied in candidate Robert Nelson.

Oh yeah - he saught and received the Republican Party Endorsement, the Emerald Coast Association of Realtor's endorsement as well as the endorsement of the Walton Republican Women Federated association.

[seagrovegirl]

So, it's okay for your candidate of choice to gain a partisan endorsement, but not the other candidate?

[rapunzel]

Mildred definitely has a good educational bio that suits her well when applying for a teaching position. Her education background provides very little when you look at the job description for a school board member. They have two roles setting policy after receiving a recommendation from the Supt. and adopting the budget.

What skill set from her past positions as a teacher gives her the skill set to understand budgets and financial funding straegies - none - she is a tax and spend democrat - plain and simple. She is also not running a non-partisan campaign - she sought and received the endorsement of te Democratic party.

Let m simply say " Sleep well - Hope is on the Way" What we need is a CHANGE - in leadership - not an insider but someone with new ideas and new insights into what our children and grandchildren need to compete. We don't need 35 year old ideas today.

Hope and Change will arrive on November 4th. That hope and change is embodied in candidate Robert Nelson.

Oh yeah - he saught and received the Republican Party Endorsement, the Emerald Coast Association of Realtor's endorsement as well as the endorsement of the Walton Republican Women Federated association.

What part of her resume? Oh, I don't know...eight years of experience on the school board?

This post is so disgustingly partisan, in what is supposed to be a non-partisan race. Mildred has been supremely decent and honorable in her campaign, refusing free publicity offered by Democrats because the education of our children is not a partisan issue. She even asked that her campaign materials be removed from the booth at the fair, because she wanted to honor the non-partisan race.

A tax and spend Democrat? As opposed to what? A borrow and spend Republican? Are you insinuating Mr. Nelson will cut funding to Walton County schools? And if you have an example of Mrs. Wilkerson levying a tax or spending with abandon, please cite that -- don't just spew your Republican Kool-Aid all over the board in an attempt to smear a decent public servant.

Mildred Wilkerson voted to allow Blithe Spirit to be performed, and was the lone voice of reason in an extremely disconcerting meeting of the school board. She was booed for saying everyone allowed their children to dress up for Halloween. The conservatives that have taken over the School Board aren't stewards of the tax dollar, they are extreme social conservatives with an agenda that will insure our children do not learn science and math at a level that will allow them to compete in the 21st century.

I'd love to see someone post Mildred's correct educational achievements, as I am fairly certain she has at least one master's degree. There was clearly a cut and paste issue on the SOE website. Also, I'd like to know what Mr. Nelson's degree from OWC was in....

[Interested Girl]

The bio posted is a cut and paste from the bio only SHE can post on the SOE website. They are her words as disjointed as they are. If wrong it is her role to put forward the corrections.

Eight years of service as a board member does not give her the skills to effectively understand a budget or allocate dolllars into the areas that are a priority today.

No I am not saying that Mr. Nelson will cut spending on children, only that he has the skills to allocate dollars where they are most urgently needed to address the needs of today as revenues fall.

I thought Mark Davis was very effective during the whole Blythe Spirit fiasco.

If Mrs. Wilkerson is so concerned about her non-partisan standing why did she drop by the Republican Headquarters seeking to have her material displayed there while at the same time asking that it not be displayed at the Dem. booth at the fair? Doesn't make sense to me.

She is the only board member that voted TWICE to raise taxes this year. Even the union had no problem with the budget adjustments that were proposed by a Democrat by the name of Mark Davis.

Only Wilkerson has publicly stated that she would never vote to reduce the budget and cut taxes. That makes her a Tax and Spend non-partisan I guess.

Tough times are here and we need someone who can deal with the needs of children during a time of falling revenues.
Mildred has a track record for eight years of no will to do that.

It is time for a change. That change is embodied in Robert Nelson.

[Evangeline]

I would like for Robert Nelson to address what it was he meant in his pre-primary postcard mail-out about 2nd amendment rights in the school. I wish I had kept the card so I could remember the exact wording, but I remember wondering what the 2nd amendment has to to with school board issues. Was it just something to get NRA support or am I lacking knowledge about an important right to bear arms at school?

[supermom262]

Maybe Bob can post his views on education. I know he has info on his viewpoint vs. hers, especially pertaining to charter schools.

[Hemingway]

I am a long time Walton County resident and newby to the SoWal site. I am an independent voter who respects the person of both candidates. This post is for Interested Girl. I certainly don't think the image you have chosen lends dignity to the campaign of Senator McCain.

[Interested Girl]

I sell T-shirts with my avatar on them for 15.00.

[ShallowsNole]

Well, unlike others, I am still supporting Robert Nelson. One reason, obviously, is that I have known him for over half of my life. Friendship aside (and we have not always been friendly; we have been at severe odds on certain subjects over the years) and advanced degrees or not, he is one of the most intelligent people I have ever met. It is the type of intelligence that you get from working and dealing with people, not from a book. But if you want to harp on formal education, I believe he only needed a few more classes to graduate but he did what all good husbands in 1980's Walton County did - put his own formal education aside so that his wife could get hers, as the pretty little pieces of paper were required for her to become a teacher. It should be noted that he also completed his law enforcement standards, which do count as roughly 30 hours of college coursework - if you major in criminal justice.

More than that, I trust him completely with my tax dollars. If any of you have been at the school board meetings through the years, you know that he has been there. He has been very active in the Walton County Taxpayer's Association (which, before anyone spouts off about that, my daddy was one of the founders), a leader in the DeFuniak Springs business community and, of course, the local Republican party.

Does this mean that I do not like Mrs. Wilkerson? Heavens, no. She has had my family's vote for each of her first two terms. She was one of Fuzz's teachers; heck, since she began teaching over half a century ago, she taught virtually everybody who went to school in DFS. She is a very beloved icon in education in Walton County. But, she has held the position for eight years, following a successful career as a master educator. She has earned her rest.

Politics is politics. I'm still voting for Robert.

[Teresa]

I would like to thank both candidates for their commitment to children in our county. Our child is not yet in the public school system but I am proud of the quality of schools we have in Walton County. we have known many children, parents, families, teachers and administrators throughout the years who have all enjoyed a positive and productive experience in our school system. it is not without problems, but overall, I feel we are blessed with our good schools.

I have talked to local educators and administrators. parents and community members. I have read the candidate's statements printed in local papers. I have seen both candidates speak here on this board on many subjects. I have heard from only one candidate who has the experience that I expect of a school board member. I have heard from only one candidate whose words are not political, but professional.

School Board Member Mildred Wilkerson is a master educator with a lifetime of experience in education of children. I believe we need to expect our school board members to be exerienced professionals who can truly contribute to the quality of education of all children in our community. Based on all I have read of the candidates qualifications and statements, and based on comments from individuals involved directly with the school system, Ms Wilkerson has proven that her experience and commitment to our school system make her the most qualified candidate. the fact that she goes out of her way to take the politics out of her work tells me everything i need to know about her high standards of professionalism and commitment to children. I sincerely hope she will continue her outstanding work in Walton County.

[paradiseat30a]

Robert Nelson, long time resident of Walton County, announced his candidacy for School Board District 1. Robert lives in Eucheeanna Valley. He relocated from Pensacola in 1979 with his father and step-mother, Bill and Martha Nelson. Robert, along with his brother Richard and sister Joanna had frequently visited the area staying with their grandparents, Max and Marian Marsh of the Paxton community. In 1984 Robert married Samantha Powell of the Glendale community, who is currently a 16 year educator with the Walton County School District. Their daughter, Amber Nicole, currently attends Okaloosa Walton College. Their son, Michael Wesley, will begin at Walton High School this school year.

Robert has worked hard within the community since moving into the area. While working in the family automobile business, he graduated from Walton High School and went on to Okaloosa Walton College. After his father retired from the automobile business and left the area, Robert and his wife of 24 years, have made a home for themselves and their children. Loving the people and area so much, Robert moved his mother, Carolyn Nelson here so that the family could spend more time together. Carolyn is currently employed as a non-instructional aide at Maude Saunders Elementary. She began working there to be with her grandson Michael, deciding to stay on after he left elementary grades to middle school. She fell in love with helping people and children of our community. After college, Robert went on to complete his Law Enforcement Standards at Okaloosa Walton College. He then took a job with an out of area engineering firm assisting with survey and data collection of Walton County for the new enhanced 9-1-1 system. This transitioned into a position with the Walton County Department of Public Safety, where Robert worked on the initial mapping and database project as they finished up the 9-1-1 system installation. This project took him to every road, driveway, and trail in Walton County where he gathered data and worked on creating the initial maps for the 9-1-1 system. The Department of Public Safety also handled emergency management. During the flooding from Tropical Storm Alberto and response and recovery efforts to Hurricane Opal, Robert became very familiar with many of the people in Walton County and surrounding areas.

Robert is currently the owner and operator of “I Fix Computers, Inc.” in downtown DeFuniak Springs. He built his business on his belief of giving back to the community. Through the years, Robert has been actively involved in many activities in the community such as the DeFuniak Springs Little League with his son Michael, working as a director with the DeFuniak Springs Business and Professional Association on the 4th of July Fireworks and Hometown Christmas activities. He is also currently volunteers on the Walton County Code Enforcement Board, and previously served on the Contractor’s Competency Board and the County Redistricting Committee. Robert’s work as former Chairman of the Walton County Republican Party has allowed him to build relationships with both local and state officials, which will be a great asset in making sure that the needs of Walton County get addressed in the future.

If elected to the Walton County School Board, Robert believes his business and technology experiences will give him a unique perspective of the needs of the children of Walton County. He will use these experiences to assist in finding and creating opportunities for our children so that they may stay and make a life and career for themselves in this area. “Having family currently employed within our educational system and a child that has recently graduated from, as well as one going into, a local public high school, I hear the needs regularly. As a school board member, I will be committed to working on those needs together with the children and community to make their school system the best that it can be in the State of Florida. My business puts me in touch with the people on a daily basis. They have told me where they want to see the school system head in the next several years, and I am prepared to take that direction as I work to bring a conservative voice back to the Walton County School Board.”

Robert can be reached at wrobertnelson@gmail.com or 850-401-4125.

MILDRED WILKERSON
PURPOSE STATEMENT

Helping to improve the education of students through effective policy making, promoting the
highest quality of standards for teachers, and ensuring a safe and productive learning environment.


CAREER SUMMARY

Educator
• Walton Middle School, DeFuniak Springs, FL - 33 years
• Chapel Hill Middle School, DeFuniak Springs, FL - 2 years
• Carver Jr. High School, Florala, AL - 1 year.

Professional
• School Board Member elected to the position in 2000 and currently serving.
• Walton County property Appraisers Value Adjustment board - 4 years and currently serving.
• Inaugural Athena Award Candidate, Walton County Chamber of Commerce
• Florida State Textbook Adoption Committee, Grades 9 - 12, 2006
• Girl Scouts of America, Board Member, West Florida, 2003-2006
• Walton County Retired Teachers Association, Member and president (elected 4 terms)
• Walton County Clerk of Court, Advisory Board (past member)
• United Professionals of Walton County, Past President.
• Pilot Club, DeFuniak Springs, Past Member
• Lifeline, Member Board of Directors
• Walton Middle School, Chairperson of 8th Grade - 19 years
• Walton Middle School, Chairperson of Science Department, 17 years
• School Accreditation Committee Member, was elected to serve two terms
• Walton County Middle School, Science Textbook Committee - served 6 years
• District School Improvement Committee, Walton County School District, past member
• Teacher of Year, Walton Middle School - voted on 3 separate years


EDUCATION
Resided in Walton County, Florida for more than 60 + years.
Certification
Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, Science, Grades 9 - 12
Degree
Florida Agriculture and Mechanical University, Tallahassee, FL, Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education
Diploma
Tivoli High School, DeFuniak Springs, FL, Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education
Other
Licensed Caterer (18 years) - enjoy cooking and entertaining; Lecturer/Speaker for various programs throughout the southeast region; Ladies Bible Class Teacher - Member Red Bay Church of Christ,
Red Bay, Florida

Can someone clarify what kind of degree (s) Mr. Nelson received from Okaloosa/Walwon College?

[Bob Wells]

Mildred seems to be well qualified. I'll cast my ballot for her.

[idlewind]

People, these two are running for a POLITICAL office, not a professional education position. I for one am interested in how my tax dollars are spent, who will require me to give more of my money to support the effort and what our youth are being taught. These are all political questions and need careful thought. Throwing more money into the hopper in order to say you are a friend of education is simply not what we need on the school board today.

[paradiseat30a]

This position does have strong merit for a background in education in some facet. How can one not consider a person's educational background when he/she is part of group who sets policy, and makes decisions on funding direction for our childrens' education? Every Priniciplal is required to have a masters degree in education so how can we appoint someone who cannot meet even the minimum teaching requirements (Bachelors degree in something) to the school board seat? Would you want someone on a medical board who did not have an MD or DO behind their name?
I am sure Mr. Nelson is a nice person as indicated be his commentary, however, the 2 resumes cannot compare.

[Smiling JOe]

paradiseseat30A, from what i read, Mr Nelson didn't graduate from college, he only attended college. However, keep in mind that Bill Gates dropped out of Harvard because it was a waste of his time. Michael Dell also dropped out of college to start Dell (computers).

It isn't a college education which makes you smart. It is your ability to learn and thirst for knowledge, along with experience in the school of hard knocks. I don't know Mr Nelson's level of intelligence, but not graduating from college shouldn't define him.

I still have a big issue with Mr Nelson's ignorant viewpoint of Yoga and hypnosis as evil things you do to people. If one is that ignorant or misinformed of some basics, I have to assume that they are also missing the gaps on other things.

I am anxiously awaiting Mr Nelson's reply.

[Teresa]

People, these two are running for a POLITICAL office, not a professional education position. I for one am interested in how my tax dollars are spent, who will require me to give more of my money to support the effort and what our youth are being taught. These are all political questions and need careful thought. Throwing more money into the hopper in order to say you are a friend of education is simply not what we need on the school board today.

putting politics into education is one of the problems in the system today, imo. yes, budget decisions must be made. professional administrators/educators and other qualified business people are perfectly qualified to make such decisions. when a person with little education experience comes in and starts making partisan political statements pertaining to education of children - well then that shows me that he or she is not qualified to serve on a board of education.

[Jdarg]

I had a wonderful conversation with Mrs. Wilkerson yesterday. Her commitment to our kids is 100%. She doesn't share any of this commitment with her political party, which to me is a sign that she is an educator first and plays the politics game last.

As it should be for the school board race.

[Interested Girl]

Stop by the Court House Annex and visit those sitting under the blue umbrella. They present a story about this race that is very partisan.

She must have a different story for each person she talks with.

Time for Change.

[wrobert]

1
I am anxiously awaiting Mr Nelson's reply.

What did I miss? I thought I had explained in the past the comments on yoga, hypnosis and just about anything else for that matter came down to parental consent. If you are going to teach or do anything other than reading, writing, arithmetic, I believe you should have parental consent.

As for my opponent, she is very qualified for the position. I am a bit more results orientated. In 2001 when she took office, over 59% of the 10th graders in Walton County could not read at grade level according to the Florida Department of Education. In 2008 the number is still over 59%. We have spent over $400 million local tax dollars educating our students. I do not believe we are getting the results for the dollars. I do not want to teach the children personally, I want to find out what tools the teachers need to teach the children and provide them. Personally, I do not believe grandiose buildings are the key. But that is just my opinion. One of the best schools in the State is in a remodeled Walmart in Mary Esther and they seem to be doing just fine.

We also have to quit sitting around talking about needing more room in south Walton and get Emerald Coast Middle School built. You can build a Lowe's in six months and it seems to take six years to build a school.

We need to quit talking about going to school uniforms every year and make a decision.

We need to quit talking about increasing teacher pay and come up with a plan as to how much a teacher needs to make then go about getting there and paying them.

We really need to come up with a vision and set up a way to accomplish it. I see no reason why we should not be number 1 in career preparation and education, Okaloosa County seems to be able to do it, and they are just next door.

[30ARosie]

What did I miss? I thought I had explained in the past the comments on yoga, hypnosis and just about anything else for that matter came down to parental consent. If you are going to teach or do anything other than reading, writing, arithmetic, I believe you should have parental consent.

As for my opponent, she is very qualified for the position. I am a bit more results orientated. In 2001 when she took office, over 59% of the 10th graders in Walton County could not read at grade level according to the Florida Department of Education. In 2008 the number is still over 59%. We have spent over $400 million local tax dollars educating our students. I do not believe we are getting the results for the dollars. I do not want to teach the children personally, I want to find out what tools the teachers need to teach the children and provide them. Personally, I do not believe grandiose buildings are the key. But that is just my opinion. One of the best schools in the State is in a remodeled Walmart in Mary Esther and they seem to be doing just fine.

We also have to quit sitting around talking about needing more room in south Walton and get Emerald Coast Middle School built. You can build a Lowe's in six months and it seems to take six years to build a school.

We need to quit talking about going to school uniforms every year and make a decision.

We need to quit talking about increasing teacher pay and come up with a plan as to how much a teacher needs to make then go about getting there and paying them.

We really need to come up with a vision and set up a way to accomplish it. I see no reason why we should not be number 1 in career preparation and education, Okaloosa County seems to be able to do it, and they are just next door.

You still haven’t answered the question, do you have a high school diploma or a GED, and did you just attend OWCC or earn an AA degree?

You seem say that other districts are doing must better than Walton county in everything you mentioned, is there anything Walton County does well? I remember in the primary it being mentioned that in the last 4 years teacher pay in Walton County was raised 35%, which is significant! Buildings may not make a difference in your estimation with student achievement but they are required to meet class-size reduction, I assumed you knew why they are building new schools.

Please respond to the education question directly, it is important to some of us. Fine by someone that is proud of what is going on in Walton County education.

[Bob Hudson]

This is a quote from a Post by JDarg concerning her attendance at a Walton County School Board meeting that I find interesting.

Walton Co. School Board Meeting 2/19 at SWHS

I just returned from the meeting. There were 3 (count'em- 3!) attendees that weren't press, school employees, or architects presenting info on the New Emerald Coast Middle School building. The board really has to make an effort for these off-site meetings, including having to pay AV guys to set up audio and record the meetings. The permanent room in DeFuniak is all set up, so there is no cost to keeping the meeting "at home." Thanks to the board for making it easier for a least a few of us to attend!

Also, thanks to Walton GOP, who was very patient in explaining any unfamiliar business and procedures. ALeonard said she wanted to take a picture of us sitting together. I told him to keep checking his back- I just might try to put my Obama pin on the back of his jacket, like a "kick me" sign.

The meeting highlight happened before the meeting even began. Kevin Boyle, of the Seaside Rep and director of Blithe Spirit, presented the board members with a play poster signed by the student actors, and vouchers to redeem for tickets. It was a classy offer, and I hope they get tickets and come see the show!

The main topic was the new Emerald Coast Middle School Building. I am going to wait until the newspaper stories come out on this one- there was a lot of info and I am tired. One very interesting note- he building is designed with a cafeteria that can serve 2 buildings- the middle school, and a future elementary school building. A future elementary school? That's a new one on the radar for me- anybody know anything?

The meeting was winding down when Mildred Wilkerson brought up the evolution topic for commentary (this was not on the agenda- just a comment). Ms. Wilkerson, in no uncertain terms, said that Walton County is a very Christian community and the people would not tolerate the teaching of evolution. She went on to say that things that happened 100 years ago can't be proven as fact, so how can evolution be fact?


And with the strike of the dumbbell (a small hand weight is used as a gavel), the meeting was adjourned.

[Jdarg]

This is a quote from a Post by JDarg concerning her attendance at a Walton County School Board meeting that I find interesting.

Walton Co. School Board Meeting 2/19 at SWHS

I just returned from the meeting. There were 3 (count'em- 3!) attendees that weren't press, school employees, or architects presenting info on the New Emerald Coast Middle School building. The board really has to make an effort for these off-site meetings, including having to pay AV guys to set up audio and record the meetings. The permanent room in DeFuniak is all set up, so there is no cost to keeping the meeting "at home." Thanks to the board for making it easier for a least a few of us to attend!

Also, thanks to Walton GOP, who was very patient in explaining any unfamiliar business and procedures. ALeonard said she wanted to take a picture of us sitting together. I told him to keep checking his back- I just might try to put my Obama pin on the back of his jacket, like a "kick me" sign.

The meeting highlight happened before the meeting even began. Kevin Boyle, of the Seaside Rep and director of Blithe Spirit, presented the board members with a play poster signed by the student actors, and vouchers to redeem for tickets. It was a classy offer, and I hope they get tickets and come see the show!

The main topic was the new Emerald Coast Middle School Building. I am going to wait until the newspaper stories come out on this one- there was a lot of info and I am tired. One very interesting note- he building is designed with a cafeteria that can serve 2 buildings- the middle school, and a future elementary school building. A future elementary school? That's a new one on the radar for me- anybody know anything?

The meeting was winding down when Mildred Wilkerson brought up the evolution topic for commentary (this was not on the agenda- just a comment). Ms. Wilkerson, in no uncertain terms, said that Walton County is a very Christian community and the people would not tolerate the teaching of evolution. She went on to say that things that happened 100 years ago can't be proven as fact, so how can evolution be fact?


And with the strike of the dumbbell (a small hand weight is used as a gavel), the meeting was adjourned.

Yes, I said that, and was disappointed in Ms. Wilkerson's comment. However, much has transpired to make me reconsider my choice in this race.

I am much more comfortable with Ms. Wilkerson making that comment than her opponent hanging a donkey shaped pinata with Obama's face on it, so children can beat it with a stick- at the Republican pep rally. I can raise my voice in opposition to the evolution in school stuff, but I am appalled at Nelson's actions at the Pep rally. It showed terrible judgement. I can't place educational decisions in the hands of someone that thinks that kind of activity is appropriate for kids.

[Evangeline]

And I'm still just wondering what 2nd amendment rights have to do with the school board race. I know I'm not the only one who got the postcard he mailed out with the statement that he supports 2nd amendment rights in the school because some of my friends were equally perplexed by it. And again, I don't have the card anymore to cite just how he phrased his statement so maybe he can let us know on here about the importance of the 2nd amendment in schools.

Aside from that and his carrying of the Obama effigy which seem to be lapses of judgment, I find him to be a valuable contributor to this forum and have always found him to provide intelligent insight into political topics. I also appreciate very much his desire to work to improve schools.

[Rose Anna]

And I'm still just wondering what 2nd amendment rights have to do with the school board race. I know I'm not the only one who got the postcard he mailed out with the statement that he supports 2nd amendment rights in the school because some of my friends were equally perplexed by it. And again, I don't have the card anymore to cite just how he phrased his statement so maybe he can let us know on here about the importance of the 2nd amendment in schools.

Aside from that and his carrying of the Obama effigy which seem to be lapses of judgment, I find him to be a valuable contributor to this forum and have always found him to provide intelligent insight into political topics. I also appreciate very much his desire to work to improve schools.

Yes, Wrobert does contribute a great amount to this message board. In fact earlier in the year it seemed generally be good information in the interest of the community. Now however, in his desperation, he seems to be taking the lead from McCain and has gone negative and highly partisan. Partisanship can be expected from McCain in a partisan race, but the school board is non-partisan and should remain so.
That is how I figured what the 2nd amendment postcard stuff was about, it is Wrobert's cryptic way of letting people know that he is a republican, i.e. his way of injecting partisanship in a NON-Partisan race.

I, myself, am trying to discover what he thinks the act of stringing up of an effigy of Obama and having kids beat it with a stick is suppose to tell us about his electability.

Neither of these behaviors do I want taught to my grandchildren.

[5th Gen Local]

Robert has worked hard within the community since moving into the area. While working in the family automobile business, he graduated from Walton High School and went on to Okaloosa Walton College.

Robert did you earn a degree, or certification?

[GoodWitch58]

I will vote for Mrs. Wilkerson because I have absolutely no doubt that whatever she does on the School Board, she will do so with the utmost integrity and (that she has always) and will always put the children first.

I have known her and her family most of my life. I recently renewed my association through her son and daughter-in-law. I have family members who have worked with her both in the school system and in her capacity as a Board member. She has some beliefs that are different from mine; and she might handle some school issues differently than I would; we come from different worlds and that we would approach issues differently, is to be expected. I am okay with that.

I know that she has fought for the students in Walton County while at the same time having to fight her own battles in a world that was not always kind to her. She did not falter, she did not stop, and she did not take the low road. She persisted, and most of the time, she was able to come out on top for the students.


Unlike some others, she will always set a good example for the students; she will listen to anyone's side of an issue and she will always do what she believes is appropriate--I can agree or not agree with her, but I know that she comes from a principled place. And, I know she will always be respectful of my opinions as I am of hers.

Her ambition is simply to serve the people of Walton County and to make the school system better than it is. And, if she does not win this election, she will continue to serve the students and people of this county, because that is who she is "in her bones".

She might not have all the management and accounting and other "business-like" experience or training, but she can find or learn that: what she does have is the kind of deep commitment to the education of the students and understanding of people that can not be learned.

IMO she is the kind of public servant we need; she speaks the truth as she sees it, and the students, teachers, and citizens of Walton County are better off because she has been there for them.

[Interested Girl]

Who let all the dems out tonight?

[John R]

If you are going to teach or do anything other than reading, writing, arithmetic, I believe you should have parental consent.

Art needs consent? Thanks, we'll call you...

[Smiling JOe]

I guess Physical Education also need parental consent according to Mr Nelson -- he doesn't want them doing Yoga in P.E. without parents' permission. It's no wonder why the Bible belt has the the highest rates of obesity in children.

[Teresa]

I am much more comfortable with Ms. Wilkerson making that comment than her opponent hanging a donkey shaped pinata with Obama's face on it, so children can beat it with a stick- at the Republican pep rally. I can raise my voice in opposition to the evolution in school stuff, but I am appalled at Nelson's actions at the Pep rally. It showed terrible judgement. I can't place educational decisions in the hands of someone that thinks that kind of activity is appropriate for kids.

personal character is just so important when considering a candidate for school board.

[Jdarg]

Late summer into fall, I began to realize that I was more comfortable with Mildred Wilkerson in the school board position than Robert. Between reading his views on SoWal.com, correspondence with him, his ad in the paper, and conversations with other community members, it became clear that his views overall were clearly different than mine, and supporting himjust felt wrong. I can't be comfortable that his political views overall won't creep into his decision making if he were to be on the school board. Robert is a nice guy- I am not saying that- but unfortunately at election time I have to consider more than the nice guy factor.

The pinata issue was the last straw. I did not plan on mentioning it in this thread, but Robert can thank Bob Hudson for the attack launch that made it impossible not to say anything to defend myself. (Now I know how Alan Osborne felt!) Changing my support to Mrs. Wilkerson is my prerogative and my right, and criticism of me for doing so is pathetic.

[30ARosie]

Mr. Nelson, in one of your fliers you sent out, you state that you support (Teaching reading by strong phonics curriculum as opposed to whole language approach.) although you don’t have an educator’s background you obviously have some knowledge of teaching reading to be able to make this kind of decision. Me, not being an educator can you explain the difference between the two approaches and why one is better than the other?

[GoodWitch58]

Well, it seems we are getting a lot of pathetic, inapproriate attacks lately...from all quarters. It is particularly sad when it comes from friends and neighbors.

[Bob Hudson]

JDarg:

I find it very confusing when you say that I launched an attack on you with my re-post of your summary of the February School Board meeting that you attended.

Exactly where did I attack you?

I highlighted your summary of Mrs. Wilkerson comments made at the end of the meeting. I was the third person in attendance that you mentioned. I found her comments that evening very revealing, but had long forgotten them until reading this thread and looked at the bottom of the page and found the similar threads listing. I went to that thread and found your accurate summary of her comments. I highlighted Mrs. Wilkersons comments not anything you said as an individual and made no comment concerning your support or lack of support or a change in your support of candidates.

How can that be an attack?

I served as a school board member for 5 years and have some insight into what a school board members roles and responsibilities involve. The most important thing that a school board member must do is listen. Listen to the professional educators, listen to parents, listen to other Board members, the Superintendents recommendation and to students and then and only then vote based on your evaluation of all perspectives. I found that that served me well as a board member. I also find that Robert does the same thing. Willing to examine all perspectives and respect the rights of others to hold a different position.

That seems to be the same pattern that you have followed in your decision on who you will vote for in this election. I respect your viewpoint. I have not attacked you and will not do that. I have not attacked Mrs. Wilkerson. I have simply reposted her comments made on a subject at a school board meeting without comment other than the statement that I found the highlighted portion interesting, leaving to the readers discreation what value if any to place on her position.

I am a supporter of Robert for this position. I consider him to be a person that will serve this community well as a school board member. I am a financial donor to his campaign and work daily in support of his election.

I have always found your postings to be insightful even when I disagreed with your viewpoint and will continue to do so.

I did not attack you and won't now or in the furture.

[Andy A]

It is only my opiniion but it is a very strong one and, as I have said many times before, based on years of experience. It is this.
You do not need an educational degree to do a good job as a school board member. Today, education while definitely of importance in what you will attain in life, is highly over rated. I want someone divorced from the educational field deciding how my tax dollars will be utilized for education. Such a candidate should be well aware of all the educational needs of the district, capable of educating and researching problems pertaining to the district and have the analytical ability to make informed and rational decisions based on what they have learned. As I said, this doesn't mean a board member has to necessarily have a Master's Degree or be an educator. He/She has to be a well informed, intelligent and thoughtful individual. I found Robet Nelson to be all of these things. I voted for him. And after reading this thread, I am certainly glad I did so.

[Jdarg]

This school board race has made me very uncomfortable on many levels. I guess this is my first foray into small town politics, in addition to learning almost too much information about candidates and their philosophies and agendas via an internet message board.

As Toots said, everyone has to cast their own vote. We all have different reasons and comfort levels for supporting certain candidates.

Bob, I appreciate your comments. I felt the need to defend myself since you brought up comments I had made earlier in this race- and now I feel differently. As I just said, this is not a race that my family is taking lightly, and it makes me sad.

[scooterbug44]

I think that both Mildred and Robert are intelligent and upstanding individuals, but IMO Robert lacks the experience/perspective that Mildred has in regards to education. I don't think we should base our votes solely upon someone's resume, but years spent teaching and upper education in the field are definitely a bonus.

Robert has brought up some good issues (block scheduling, teacher certification), but has also brought up strange issues (yoga, 2nd amendment) and is too focused on religion IMO.

After meeting both candidates and discussing issues w/ them, I will be voting for Mildred.

[Teresa]

It is only my opiniion but it is a very strong one and, as I have said many times before, based on years of experience. It is this.
You do not need an educational degree to do a good job as a school board member. Today, education while definitely of importance in what you will attain in life, is highly over rated. I want someone divorced from the educational field deciding how my tax dollars will be utilized for education. Such a candidate should be well aware of all the educational needs of the district, capable of educating and researching problems pertaining to the district and have the analytical ability to make informed and rational decisions based on what they have learned. As I said, this doesn't mean a board member has to necessarily have a Master's Degree or be an educator. He/She has to be a well informed, intelligent and thoughtful individual. I found Robet Nelson to be all of these things. I voted for him. And after reading this thread, I am certainly glad I did so.

you have some great points Andy A. I do not want a candidate that is "divorced" from the field of education, but I know what you mean. having well rounded professionals from other fields to bring other kinds of insights and business skills to the table is very very important on a school board. members do need to know about the field of education and it needs to be a subject that they feel strongly about, of course. a school board position should never be taken lightly, politicized or used as a stepping stone.

however, some of us feel that having professional educators on the board is equally important. I have come to appreciate that Mildred knows this school system inside and out. I feel her experience in Walton County education is invaluable. Not to mention the people who know and work with her truly respect her knowledge and ability to continue to contribute to the school system. she has a following out there. and I've joined them.

[Teresa]

This school board race has made me very uncomfortable on many levels. I guess this is my first foray into small town politics, in addition to learning almost too much information about candidates and their philosophies and agendas via an internet message board.

As Toots said, everyone has to cast their own vote. We all have different reasons and comfort levels for supporting certain candidates.

Bob, I appreciate your comments. I felt the need to defend myself since you brought up comments I had made earlier in this race- and now I feel differently. As I just said, this is not a race that my family is taking lightly, and it makes me sad.

relax, go to the beach, live, breathe, learn, vote.

you are right about almost learning too much information on the board. but I'm grateful for the information. otherwise, I would not have learned what I needed to learn in order to make the best vote for me and my family.

[Andy A]

Tootsie, while I appreciate the points you made and understand them, I feel that educators on the school board have a vested interest that is not necessary on such a board. I don't care if it is the school board, mosquito control board, fire district board or any other such board. If you personally have a vested interest in the decisions of that board, it is my opinion you shouldn't be serving on it. It is paramount to the fox guarding the hen house. I have, in other places, seen decisions made by boards comprised of members too closely associated with what they were administering. It always turned out to be a detriment to the citizens being served by the board. My take and you have yours which I respect but disagree.

[scooterbug44]

Andy - I agree w/ what you are saying, but it's sort of hard NOT to have a vested interest in a specialized board or in a small community.

A school board w/o educators is sort of like a meat packing plant run by vegetarians - you may get a fresh perspective and new ideas, but they will make many mistakes because they don't know much about meat or meat eaters!

[Andy A]

Andy - I agree w/ what you are saying, but it's sort of hard NOT to have a vested interest in a specialized board or in a small community.

A school board w/o educators is sort of like a meat packing plant run by vegetarians - you may get a fresh perspective and new ideas, but they will make many mistakes because they don't know much about meat or meat eaters!

It depends on the qualifications and intelligence of the persons willing to run for the board. In some instances, you could be correct but it has to be an awfully small community with little interest by its citizens to have what you have suggested occur. You can bet on one sure thing. You will always have people who have a vested interest willing to run for boards embodied with making decisions concerning their occupation. Educators are no different.