Scott Murphy and Lorean Wilson vie for vacant District 2 school board seat
One seat on Craven's County school board will have a newcomer as two local residents face each other for the District 2 seat held by Board Chairman Frances Boomer. Boomer has decided not to seek reelection after serving on the board since being elected in 2006.
Republican candidate Scott Murphy is a minister serving as director of MX Network and The Father's Refuge. He also oversees the disaster recovery efforts from Hurricane Florence in Jones County.
He holds an associate degree from Craven Community College in Machining Tool & Die.
Murphy and his wife Rachel have two children.
Lorean Wilson is a graduate of West Craven High School. She holds an associates degree in Cosmetology and a BA in Biblical Studies and Theology and is currently pursuing a BA in Criminal Justice with a minor in Psychology at NCWU.
Wilson works as a hairstylist, substitute teacher and is an avid community advocate.
Engaged to the Rev. Reginald E. Bradshaw, she has two adult sons and six grandchildren.
Questionnaires were sent to each candidate prior to the Nov. 8 election. Here are there responses:
1. What is the best way for voters to contact you?
Murphy: By phone or email. (252) 294-6033 or scott4boe@gmail.com.
Wilson: A direct call to me is the best way. My number is 252-286-1328. But you may also email via email wlorean@yahoo.com or Lorean G. Wilson Facebook.
What experience do you have that makes you a good candidate?
2. What experience do you have that makes you a good candidate?
Murphy: I am the son of a retired local teacher. I am also the father of two daughters and the uncle of triplets in elementary school. Professionally, I was the Interim Director of RCS in New Bern through Hurricane Florence and have overseen disaster recovery for the last three years in Jones County. I have also been serving the local community in ministry for over ten years. Seeing our local community thrive motivates me. I have seen firsthand some of the challenges in the education system and I want to help make it better for your children and mine.
Wilson: My experiences as a graduate of West Craven High, having served and currently serving as a substitute teacher, and most of all as a concerned parent leads me in deciding to offer myself as a candidate. My ability to communicate with school board members, educators, parents, and students. can help create strong relationships among all who are invested. Upon election, my community involvement, as a small business owner allows me to hear the concerns and challenges facing students, parents, and teachers.
3. What do you read to stay informed on issues?
Murphy: For local issues, I lean towards New Bern Live or Neuse News, but I mostly like to connect directly with people and hear it straight from them on their concerns.
Wilson: I read a newsletter published by The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. I also read the local newspapers and other online resources to keep me updated on issues concerning the public school system. My hands-on experience as a substitute teacher is the most informative mode of staying informed as to some of the issues.
4. If elected, what would you do to stay transparent as an elected official?
Murphy: I would like to have regular town halls at least every quarter, be present in the schools to hear from staff and leadership and have a strong parental advisory group for each school in District 2 to help me stay informed about pertinent issues.
Wilson: I would ensure the public that I have their best interest by being visible and approachable when there are concerns and decisions to be made. My commitment to being honest, fair, and respectful, will create a climate of trust that opens doors for positive communication between stakeholders and board members.
5. What do you think is the most important issue for the seat you are running for, how do you want to resolve it? How has current leadership addressed the issue?
Murphy: After speaking with parents, teachers, and administrators in District 2, one of the biggest concerns I hear is classroom order and discipline. This affects the overall tone of the classroom and students’ ability to focus on the academic subject matter and truly learn. We want teachers to be able to focus on teaching rather than continually addressing discipline issues. I believe efforts are being made to make changes, but I think more can be done. I would like to see a stronger effort from the Central Office and the Board supporting local schools in clearly setting and following through on consequences.
Wilson: The most important issues are low test scores, the struggle to hire teachers, the shortage in securing bus drivers, and the struggle to secure adequate Internet service for students living in rural areas. To resolve these issues knowing that the best interest of the students is my highest priority I would observe to see what is already in place. I would offer my support to ensure that the people that are in a certain position have the necessary tools to carry out the policies and procedures in place. The past leadership Implemented programs to bring up the reading scores. The students were able to attend summer school to reinforce those skills that weren't grasped during the school year. They also supplied tutoring for students as well. They found ways to hire qualified teachers and bus drivers as well. So upon election, I will continue to work with the board to implement the successful policies and procedures in place.
This article originally appeared on Sun Journal: Craven County school board elections see two newcomers in Wilson, Murphy
