Furthermore, amidst the challenges posed by the pandemic, the board has displayed remarkable resilience and efficacy. Compared to other districts of similar size, Iredell-Statesville Schools has shown less learning loss, a testament to the board’s proactive measures and commitment to student success.

Strengthening collaboration and aligning collective objectives within the board are pivotal endeavors, and I recognize the importance of fostering harmony among colleagues. If elected to serve, I will endeavor to be a peacemaker, prioritizing understanding and collaboration to achieve consensus and propel our district forward. Building bridges and fostering mutual respect among board members will be central to my approach, ensuring that we work cohesively towards our shared goals for the betterment of our schools and community.

IFN: What is your assessment of Iredell-Statesville Schools? In what areas has the district distinguished itself in recent years? To what areas should the board/administration be directing more resources to bring about improvement? Explain your answer.

ANGELL: In assessing Iredell-Statesville Schools over recent years, it is evident that our district has distinguished itself as a beacon of educational excellence. Data on per-pupil spending highlights the remarkable return on investment that Iredell County families receive in terms of educational outcomes. Despite spending less than other districts of similar size, our district consistently ranks high in achievement. This demonstrates our prudent fiscal management and unwavering commitment to maximizing resources for the benefit of our students. Our school system boasts a myriad of innovative programs, such as CCTL, CATS, Early College, International Baccalaureate, and Dual Immersion, which provide parents with a diverse array of options and choices to customize their children’s education. These programs not only enrich the educational experience but also empower parents to actively engage in shaping their child’s learning journey.

It is imperative to prioritize the recruitment and retention of qualified teachers, as they are the cornerstone of a supportive learning environment. Addressing the factors that deter teachers from entering or remaining in the classroom is paramount to ensuring the continued success of our schools. By fostering a supportive environment and offering competitive incentives, we can attract and retain the best educators to nurture the academic growth and development of our students.

Additionally, the school board must collaborate closely with local officials to address misconceptions regarding funding disparities. While our schools have some of the lowest per-pupil spending, it is not due to a lack of local commitment but rather a consequence of inadequate state funding. It is imperative to redirect our efforts towards advocating for reasonable funding at the state level. Collaborating with state officials and the N.C. Department of Public Instruction to advocate for modifications to the tiered funding system is essential in ensuring that our schools receive the resources they need to thrive. By advocating for fair and reasonable funding, we can create a more conducive environment for student success and foster a brighter future for our community.

IFN: How are the individual schools performing in your district? If elected, how will you spend your time and energy to help the students in these schools reach their potential?

ANGELL: The performance of individual schools within our district varies, emphasizing the need for tailored support to ensure that every student can excel. If entrusted with the responsibility of serving on the school board, I am committed to prioritizing initiatives that foster an environment conducive to student success. One key aspect of this approach involves increasing community involvement, particularly by engaging with faith-based organizations. These organizations play a vital role in our community and can serve as invaluable partners in supporting our schools and students.

Furthermore, I recognize the importance of investing in early intervention and addressing disparities in access to education. I am committed to expanding Pre-K programs in District 2 to close the gap for students entering school while experiencing poverty and/or exceptional needs. These investments will reduce costs significantly over time. By providing early educational opportunities, we can lay a strong foundation for academic success and mitigate the effects of socioeconomic factors on student achievement.

Additionally, fostering strong partnerships with parents is essential in promoting student success. As such, I will schedule regular contacts with Parent-Teacher Organizations (PTOs) to encourage parental involvement and collaboration. By working closely with parents, we can create a supportive network that empowers students to thrive academically and socially.

Finally, it is imperative to demonstrate tangible support for our educators. As a board member, I will prioritize being present on a regular schedule to show board support for teacher appreciation, recognize achievements, and address concerns related to teacher retention. By actively engaging with educators, we can cultivate a positive and supportive environment that attracts and retains talented teachers, ultimately benefiting the entire school community.

IFN: Current I-SS Board members have been sued for violating N.C. Open Meetings laws by meeting by text message. Will you commit to voters that you will only conduct the public’s business in public — unless the board votes to meet in closed session for the limited purposes allowed by law? Is this an issue the public should be concerned about?

ANGELL: As a candidate for the school board, I am committed to upholding transparency and accountability in all aspects of governance. I firmly believe that the public’s business should be conducted in public, adhering to the laws governing open meetings. I pledge to only engage in discussions and decision-making in accordance with N.C. Open Meetings laws. It’s imperative for the public to have confidence in the integrity of our processes, and any concerns regarding adherence to open meetings laws should be taken seriously.

IFN: Why are you the best candidate in the March 5 primary election?

ANGELL: Growing up in poverty amidst numerous adverse childhood experiences has shaped my conservative values profoundly. I firmly believe in the power of self-determination, and I see access to a high-quality education as the cornerstone of empowering individuals to take control of their lives. Stewardship of resources is not just a matter of financial prudence but a moral imperative to me. Over my 15-year tenure as a non-profit leader, I have consistently upheld conservative financial practices, emphasizing cost containment, transparent budget management, and stakeholder input.

Aligned with the values of our community, I am committed to representing these principles as a member of the board. It is imperative that our public school system acknowledges the intrinsic value of every child, recognizing them as deserving respect and care during their formative years.

Throughout my career, my passion for making a positive impact has been unwavering. From my early days as a youth minister to my current role as executive director of Children’s Homes of Iredell County, I have demonstrated innovative leadership and an unyielding dedication to improving the lives of children.

My professional achievements underscore my ability to drive meaningful change and innovation in the realm of child welfare and family services. Spearheading the creation and expansion of programs aimed at supporting youth and families has been a hallmark of my career.

In addition to my professional endeavors, my active involvement in various community organizations and initiatives reflects my commitment to supporting students and their families. Whether through volunteer work or active participation in my local church, giving back to the community has always been a priority for me.

As a candidate for the school board, I bring a wealth of experience, a proven track record of success, and a genuine passion for serving others. I am dedicated to advocating for our students, supporting our educators, and ensuring access to high-quality education for every child in our district. With your support, I am confident in my ability to contribute positively to the future of our community and its educational endeavors.