Meet Dominique McCord-Cotton, candidate for Nashville School Board, District 1
Editor's note: The Tennessean Editorial Board invited candidates for the March 5, 2024 Metro Nashville-Davidson County primary election to fill out our questionnaire. They include biographical information and answers to seven questions on variety of topics from key policy issues to their recommendation for visitors on what to see or do in the city. Early voting goes from Feb. 14-27. Learn more at the Davidson County Election Commission.
Candidate Q&As: Learn about candidates running in Nashville-Davidson County's March 5 primary election
Name: Dominique McCord-Cotton
Position: School Board District 1
Political party: Democratic
Age: 29
What neighborhood/part of the county do you live in? I live on the northeast part of Nashville
Education: Bachelor of Art, Political Science: The University of Tennessee, Knoxville Master of Education, Curriculum and Instructional Practice: Lipscomb University
Job history: 7th Grade History Teacher, East End Prep Instructional Coach, East End Prep Grade Team Lead, East End Prep Policy and Advocacy Fellow, The Memphis Lift Congressional Intern, United States House of Representatives
Family: I am a 4th-generation Nashvillian and the eldest daughter of seven children. I am a proud aunt of 11 nieces and nephews.
Why are you running for this office?
After nearly 10 years as a classroom teacher, I realized that students need more than just great teachers; students need fair policies and relevant laws to maximize their opportunities for success. My experience in the classroom and my desire to help better public education in my community have led me to run for the school board. I am committed to improving the current state of education by creating more community partnerships in schools, working to retain and recruit high-quality teachers, and working to advocate for additional funds for school services and programs. As a school board member, I would lead by listening and working with families and the community to ensure students have the best possible outcomes. I know what works for students, what works for teachers, and what can work to better the district.
What makes you qualified to hold this office and better qualified than your opponent(s)?
I am the only candidate who is currently in the classroom teaching students. I have a connection to students, parents, and teachers that is direct and immediate. I can offer a fresh perspective on what is working and what is not working for students and teachers in real-time. I’ve taught before, during, and after the Covid-19 pandemic, and have seen both student and teacher frustration after the learning loss from the pandemic, and I’ve seen the need for additional resources. My experience in the classroom can add value to the board and our schools.
If you are elected (or re-elected), what are your top 2 to 3 priorities for your new (or next) term in office?
My priorities are to:
Advocate for additional funds for school programs and services
Prioritize teacher recruitment and retention
Establish stronger partnerships within school communities
What are you hearing most from voters about what they want you to accomplish, if elected?
Voters have asked me to commit to increase visibility and communication, and have expressed concerns for additional community supports. As a school board member I will commit to establishing stronger partnerships within school communities and I will engage community supporters and partner with nonprofits to ensure there are ways for students and their families to communicate their needs and express their thoughts. I plan to have community meetings and town halls that are centrally located and easily accessible for the community, and will work with community partners to ensure community members know that I am easily accessible and have an open-door policy.
What is your proudest achievement in your personal or public life?
My proudest professional achievement is being ranked as a Level 5 teacher consistently by the Tennessee State Board of Education. My students have continuously exceeded statewide expectations on their end of course tests. This challenges me to create and develop diverse methodologies that will encourage, stimulate, and promote a strong interest in student learning.
A "fun" question: When visitors ask you, "What should I do in Nashville?" what are the top 2 or 3 things or places you recommend?
The National Museum of African American Music
Centennial Park
Slim and Husky’s
Will you commit to being civil in how you present yourself and the way you interact with opponents and others? (Our definition of civility is being a good, active, honest and respectable citizen)
Yes
Call Opinion and Engagement Director David Plazas at (615) 259-8063, email him at dplazas@tennessean.com or find him on X (formerly Twitter) at @davidplazas.
This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Nashville election: Dominique McCord-Cotton, School Board, District 1
