This morning I announced on WBHF 1450am that I would not be seeking another term on the Bartow County school board.  I am making this announcement now to give those interested in succeeding me plenty of time to prayerfully consider stepping into public service.  I began my political journey volunteering for former Congressman Bob Barr as part of his campaign in 1994.  That year we saw a conservative revolution sweep Washington, D.C.  The climate was very much like the one we see captivating this country right now. Later, I would have the opportunity to intern for Congressman Barr and work with Catherine Brock who really taught me what legislative and constituent service was all about.

After completing college, I served in various leadership positions within the Bartow County Republican party and had a great experience running for the state legislature in 2002. Through all of these roles my belief has not wavered that government should be limited and accountable to the people.

I was first elected to the school board in 2004 to fill the unexpired term of Paul Bennett. I was later elected to a full four year term in 2006.  I am proudest of the strides that this system has made in our graduation rate during my time on the board. Since 2004 we have seen about a 20% improvement in moving our students towards graduation.  During my time on the board we have never raised the milage rate and have done our best to lower it every year that we could. The current rate dates back to the mid-1990′s. We built the best fund balance that this county has ever had and we have been using it to deal with this crisis (with minimal impact to employees to date). We also have the best bond rating that this school system has ever been able to achieve due to fiscally sound decisions.  I am also very proud that I have stayed true to my convictions. Even when I had to stand alone or vote on something I knew would be unpopular I always did what I thought was right.

Public service no matter what form it takes should be about being part of something larger than yourself. I begin this final chapter in my school board service knowing that I have made a difference. I am also proud that I can say that I never used this position to benefit me or my family personally. For me, this has been and will continue to be about helping our children reach their full God given potential and purpose.

I would like to thank my wife Stephanie for her patience and love. The wife of an elected official is not always an ideal position. Stephanie you always handled my political life with grace and class. I love you very much! Thank you for allowing me to be away and serve for all of these years.

I am so excited about being able to spend more time with my 3 wonderful children Sydney, Austin & Anniston.  They have always been my biggest fans and now I have more time to be theirs for a while.

Too often we look to our elected officials for answers to problems that they are incapable of giving. I know that many people are hurting right now and have serious questions about the future.  I hope you find some comfort in knowing that Jesus Christ has a plan for your life. God sent him so that you could have a bright future free from the guilt that past sin often consumes in our life.  If you need a church home to learn more about Jesus please stop by Oak Leaf Church and let us minister to you!

This bible verse has been a guiding force in my life for years and I hope you find strength and peace in it too.

Proverbs 16:9

In his heart a man plans his course,
but the LORD determines his steps.

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