Photo: Digital Vision
The second of two School Board races on the ballot is a run-off in District 7 between Edwin Ferguson and Corey Michael Smith.
Ferguson led Smith in the primary by fewer than 400 votes. There was a third candidate who was eliminated.
Ferguson is an attorney who also taught in the school district and he wants to see teachers that have already been in the classroom making more money, now that starting salaries have been increased for new teachers.
"I know we need to increase what our starting pay is but we also need to make sure that we strike a better balance between what our new teachers are making and what our now veteran teachers are making as well."
He says there is some animosity from veteran teachers who are upset that someone right out of college making the same amount that it took them years to make.
Candidate Corey Michael Smith is also an attorney, formerly working as an associate counsel for the same board to which he wants to become a member.
"I litigated numerous cases on behalf of the School Board."
We asked Smith if he thinks parents should have any concerns about him serving.
"There's no ethical conflicts there or anything like that, no. As a matter of fact it's a boon to me because I've sat in board meetings for years and I know how they structure them. I understand what comes before the board. I understand the role of a board member because I've actually given advice and representation to board members."
He says students would come first when he votes as a member of the school board.
***Please note that we were unable to reach Ferguson for a new interview ahead of the General Election so the audio above is from his primary interview.
This is an open seat, being vacated by longtime Board Member Dr. Debra Robinson's decision to not seek re-election.