Question #10
What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful office holder?
Doyle Costello District #1
I am honest, thoughtful, kind, sincere, and open-minded. I am compassionate, a voice of reason, a good listener, and I truly care about all of our children.
Keith S. Gryboski District #1
I am a recovering attorney. I also was the founder, CFO and General Counsel of various multi national companies. For the last 20 years, I have been involved in developing informal education programs, based upon South Carolina's Education Standards. I have founded, co-authored and editited over reading support components that have been provided to over 300,000 students.
Elizabeth Moffly District #2
I served before and always kept the district as accountable and transparent to the taxpayers. I go above and beyond educating myself on the details. I'm president of Moffly Construction and Real Estate and understand building, finance, contracts and procurement.
Sarah Shad Johnson District #2
My extensive experience with issues that impact CCSD is one of my strengths. I have seen what works and what does not. For example, I have already called out the fact that CCSD is piloting a teacher pay-for-performance plan again after it has failed in the past.
Another strength is my ability to see the big picture, break it down, convey it to others, and to take action for positive change. As an example, in December of 2016, I was sworn into office on the District 2 Constituent Board. By that Spring, I was elected chair. The District 2 Constituent Board was a very antiquated board that was not functioning well. Under my leadership, I made positive change for that board and the constituents it serves.
While I was on the District 2 Constituent Board, I effectively interacted and communicated with hundreds of stakeholders and made recommendations, including policy changes, to the county school board.
Seana J. Flynn District #2
I have served professionally, and have considerable experience in a variety of roles in the district that range from substitute teacher to school and district level administrator. I own and operate several successful businesses in the community. I am passionate about education and believe that it is the responsibility of the community to offer a fair and equitable education to every student. I have a competent business mind, and I am experienced in handling financial challenges and am capable of balancing budgets.
Grace Bouldin Cowan District #2
Did not respond
Ed Kelly District #2
Did not respond
EJ Milligan District #2
Did not respond
Chris Collins District #3
Lots of knowledge about the school district and it’s varsity operations. Experience of 24 years serving constituents. Dependable trustworthy representation for students parents and teachers.
Pam Mckinney District #3
Did not respond
Thomas Ravenell District #3
Did not respond
Ashley Peele District #3
I am a native of North Charleston and a product of Charleston County schools. I was the first in my family to graduate, and I understand how important education is in breaking the chains of generational poverty. Professionally, I'm a creative problem-solver. Charleston County schools need bold ideas to turn around its underperforming schools. I'm honest and transparent and intend to partner with the community and stakeholders in my mission to ensure every child has access to a quality public education in Charleston County.
Courtney Waters District #4
I am a collaborative leader who has firm beliefs, but a willingness to work with others. Being on a board requires one to work effectively with others and set priorities according to what the community needs. After serving for two years, recognizing what hasn't worked and learning new frameworks, I have gained the skills to be effective in this work.
Kevin D Hollinshead District #4
My experience from being on the board in the past, other commission boards I served on
Vivian S Pettigrew District #5
I am a former employee of Charleston county school district for thirty years, I continue to be involved after retirement through volunteering in schools and communities in the North Charleston area. I attended the public school and my children and grandchildren and apart of CCSD. I am a product of Charleston, it's school and communities have given much to me.
It is now my time to speak for the people I serve.
Melissa Couture District #5
I don't believe I have all the knowledge or all the answers. I want to listen to the people who are boots on the ground and find solutions that benefit everyone.
Carlotte M. Bailey District #5
Did not respond
Erica Cokley District #6
Did not respond
Eric Thome District #6
Did not respond
Samuel Whatley II District #6
Did not respond
Lee Runyon District #6
Professional Education Experience. I am a parent. I am a born and raised Charlestonian. Most importantly, I have developed over a lifetime here in the Lowcountry a familiarity with many operational entities that collaborate with CCSD.
Sydney van Bulck District #7
First and foremost, my twelve years of classroom experience has led me to this place. When I first began teaching, I never expected that I would ever leave the classroom, and I certainly never expected to run for office. The school that I taught at was severely impacted when Meeting Street at Brentwood opened. When lines were redrawn, we were promised that even if our allocations changed, we would not lose resources. This was true for the first year. Each year we saw more and more resources cut. I was still new to the profession and unsure of how to advocate for my school. I rapidly got launched into the advocacy space, which took me far outside of my comfort zone. I am no longer afraid to stand up to bullies, and I am the hardest worker that I know. I lead with my integrity. I want to protect our teachers and students. I want to protect the institution that is public education. I want to help fix a system that I hope to go back to some day.
Jennifer Mieras District #7
I have over 25 years of relevant professional experience with organizations, including The Discovery Channel, The Department of Defense, and local small businesses. At these organizations I have: created and managed multi-million dollar budgets and complex executive schedules; managed large cross-functional teams of staff and contractors; set priorities, and executable goals, monitored organizational performance to drive accountability, and led organization-wide communication and change management efforts. Working in dynamic environments has allowed me to experience bringing together diverse people and perspectives to identify and work towards common goals.
Additionally, I have served for 3 years on the Board of Directors at Orange Grove Charter, last year as Chair. I am public school educated from Kindergarten through college and I have two children currently attending Charleston County Public Schools. I have served as a substitute teacher and volunteered in the classroom.
Joy Brown District #7
I am an attentive listener who can work with people while holding strong to values. In such divisive times, we need someone who can be fair and use common sense, someone who values transparency and accountability, someone who is proactive instead of reactive. I believe I am the candidate who can bring all of that to our school board.
Leah Whatley District #7
Did not respond
Travis Bedson District #8
Did not respond
Helen Davis-Frazier District #8
I am a retired educator who rose from the ranks from serving as a teacher's aide, counselor, Asst. Principal, School Administrator, Constituent Board member, and now as a member of the CCSD Consolidated School Board. I have over 50 years of experience in education and have been a Social Worker for several State and private agencies. I understand the needs of our children and families and have became an advocate for equitable public education for all students.
Doris Johnson District #8
First and foremost I am Christian which makes me morally obligated to do right concerning all people.
First and foremost I am a Christian and I live according to biblical principles. Secondly, I am teachable, and a team player. I have worked in the school system in the past and served as a mentor for students in Community in Schools. I am an ordained pastor and chaplain. I have worked in the penal system with juveniles for over twenty-five years as a volunteer chaplain and have first hand knowledge of the drop out rate.
I am knowledgeable in leadership skills, I have served on St. John’s High School SIG (Student Improvement Grant) Committee in 2015-16. I have pastored for over 25 years. I have worked in the penal system for 25 years and worked with juveniles who dropped out of school.
Darlene Dunmeyer District #8- 36 years of experience working in education
- Personal and professional connections with the community
- Native of Hollywood, SC
- Solution-oriented approach
- Experienced and skilled in building, leading and supporting effective systems (former school counselor & director of counseling)
- Strong command of understanding data and responding to data implications
Dr. Carol Tempel District #9
I’m an educator who is passionate about public education and cares about educating all students. During my 40 year career in education, I have experiences as a classroom teacher, curriculum/learning specialist, assistant principal, and principal. I’m definitely a creative problem solver who readily collaborates with others, understands the complexities of a school district, focuses my efforts on improving student learning and school climate, and works persistently to make the changes needed to improve teaching and learning.
Forest Bjork District #9
Did not respond
Graham Smith District #9
Did not respond
What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful office holder?
Doyle Costello District #1
I am honest, thoughtful, kind, sincere, and open-minded. I am compassionate, a voice of reason, a good listener, and I truly care about all of our children.
Keith S. Gryboski District #1
I am a recovering attorney. I also was the founder, CFO and General Counsel of various multi national companies. For the last 20 years, I have been involved in developing informal education programs, based upon South Carolina's Education Standards. I have founded, co-authored and editited over reading support components that have been provided to over 300,000 students.
Elizabeth Moffly District #2
I served before and always kept the district as accountable and transparent to the taxpayers. I go above and beyond educating myself on the details. I'm president of Moffly Construction and Real Estate and understand building, finance, contracts and procurement.
Sarah Shad Johnson District #2
My extensive experience with issues that impact CCSD is one of my strengths. I have seen what works and what does not. For example, I have already called out the fact that CCSD is piloting a teacher pay-for-performance plan again after it has failed in the past.
Another strength is my ability to see the big picture, break it down, convey it to others, and to take action for positive change. As an example, in December of 2016, I was sworn into office on the District 2 Constituent Board. By that Spring, I was elected chair. The District 2 Constituent Board was a very antiquated board that was not functioning well. Under my leadership, I made positive change for that board and the constituents it serves.
While I was on the District 2 Constituent Board, I effectively interacted and communicated with hundreds of stakeholders and made recommendations, including policy changes, to the county school board.
Seana J. Flynn District #2
I have served professionally, and have considerable experience in a variety of roles in the district that range from substitute teacher to school and district level administrator. I own and operate several successful businesses in the community. I am passionate about education and believe that it is the responsibility of the community to offer a fair and equitable education to every student. I have a competent business mind, and I am experienced in handling financial challenges and am capable of balancing budgets.
Grace Bouldin Cowan District #2
Did not respond
Ed Kelly District #2
Did not respond
EJ Milligan District #2
Did not respond
Chris Collins District #3
Lots of knowledge about the school district and it’s varsity operations. Experience of 24 years serving constituents. Dependable trustworthy representation for students parents and teachers.
Pam Mckinney District #3
Did not respond
Thomas Ravenell District #3
Did not respond
Ashley Peele District #3
I am a native of North Charleston and a product of Charleston County schools. I was the first in my family to graduate, and I understand how important education is in breaking the chains of generational poverty. Professionally, I'm a creative problem-solver. Charleston County schools need bold ideas to turn around its underperforming schools. I'm honest and transparent and intend to partner with the community and stakeholders in my mission to ensure every child has access to a quality public education in Charleston County.
Courtney Waters District #4
I am a collaborative leader who has firm beliefs, but a willingness to work with others. Being on a board requires one to work effectively with others and set priorities according to what the community needs. After serving for two years, recognizing what hasn't worked and learning new frameworks, I have gained the skills to be effective in this work.
Kevin D Hollinshead District #4
My experience from being on the board in the past, other commission boards I served on
Vivian S Pettigrew District #5
I am a former employee of Charleston county school district for thirty years, I continue to be involved after retirement through volunteering in schools and communities in the North Charleston area. I attended the public school and my children and grandchildren and apart of CCSD. I am a product of Charleston, it's school and communities have given much to me.
It is now my time to speak for the people I serve.
Melissa Couture District #5
I don't believe I have all the knowledge or all the answers. I want to listen to the people who are boots on the ground and find solutions that benefit everyone.
Carlotte M. Bailey District #5
Did not respond
Erica Cokley District #6
Did not respond
Eric Thome District #6
Did not respond
Samuel Whatley II District #6
Did not respond
Lee Runyon District #6
Professional Education Experience. I am a parent. I am a born and raised Charlestonian. Most importantly, I have developed over a lifetime here in the Lowcountry a familiarity with many operational entities that collaborate with CCSD.
Sydney van Bulck District #7
First and foremost, my twelve years of classroom experience has led me to this place. When I first began teaching, I never expected that I would ever leave the classroom, and I certainly never expected to run for office. The school that I taught at was severely impacted when Meeting Street at Brentwood opened. When lines were redrawn, we were promised that even if our allocations changed, we would not lose resources. This was true for the first year. Each year we saw more and more resources cut. I was still new to the profession and unsure of how to advocate for my school. I rapidly got launched into the advocacy space, which took me far outside of my comfort zone. I am no longer afraid to stand up to bullies, and I am the hardest worker that I know. I lead with my integrity. I want to protect our teachers and students. I want to protect the institution that is public education. I want to help fix a system that I hope to go back to some day.
Jennifer Mieras District #7
I have over 25 years of relevant professional experience with organizations, including The Discovery Channel, The Department of Defense, and local small businesses. At these organizations I have: created and managed multi-million dollar budgets and complex executive schedules; managed large cross-functional teams of staff and contractors; set priorities, and executable goals, monitored organizational performance to drive accountability, and led organization-wide communication and change management efforts. Working in dynamic environments has allowed me to experience bringing together diverse people and perspectives to identify and work towards common goals.
Additionally, I have served for 3 years on the Board of Directors at Orange Grove Charter, last year as Chair. I am public school educated from Kindergarten through college and I have two children currently attending Charleston County Public Schools. I have served as a substitute teacher and volunteered in the classroom.
Joy Brown District #7
I am an attentive listener who can work with people while holding strong to values. In such divisive times, we need someone who can be fair and use common sense, someone who values transparency and accountability, someone who is proactive instead of reactive. I believe I am the candidate who can bring all of that to our school board.
Leah Whatley District #7
Did not respond
Travis Bedson District #8
Did not respond
Helen Davis-Frazier District #8
I am a retired educator who rose from the ranks from serving as a teacher's aide, counselor, Asst. Principal, School Administrator, Constituent Board member, and now as a member of the CCSD Consolidated School Board. I have over 50 years of experience in education and have been a Social Worker for several State and private agencies. I understand the needs of our children and families and have became an advocate for equitable public education for all students.
Doris Johnson District #8
First and foremost I am Christian which makes me morally obligated to do right concerning all people.
First and foremost I am a Christian and I live according to biblical principles. Secondly, I am teachable, and a team player. I have worked in the school system in the past and served as a mentor for students in Community in Schools. I am an ordained pastor and chaplain. I have worked in the penal system with juveniles for over twenty-five years as a volunteer chaplain and have first hand knowledge of the drop out rate.
I am knowledgeable in leadership skills, I have served on St. John’s High School SIG (Student Improvement Grant) Committee in 2015-16. I have pastored for over 25 years. I have worked in the penal system for 25 years and worked with juveniles who dropped out of school.
Darlene Dunmeyer District #8- 36 years of experience working in education
- Personal and professional connections with the community
- Native of Hollywood, SC
- Solution-oriented approach
- Experienced and skilled in building, leading and supporting effective systems (former school counselor & director of counseling)
- Strong command of understanding data and responding to data implications
Dr. Carol Tempel District #9
I’m an educator who is passionate about public education and cares about educating all students. During my 40 year career in education, I have experiences as a classroom teacher, curriculum/learning specialist, assistant principal, and principal. I’m definitely a creative problem solver who readily collaborates with others, understands the complexities of a school district, focuses my efforts on improving student learning and school climate, and works persistently to make the changes needed to improve teaching and learning.
Forest Bjork District #9
Did not respond
Graham Smith District #9
Did not respond