This is just a note of reflection and thankfulness today following the results of the November 5, 2024, election.

Regardless of the results, I am eternally grateful to each of you. Your voices, donations, sign work, electioneering, encouragement, and hard work earned us the votes for this election. 

From my hopeful perspective, I had no idea that a smear campaign was in effect against me again. It became apparent to me last Saturday when my nephew called and said he overheard some ladies talking about me in the grocery store with disparaging rumors. To our disadvantage, but to stay true to the non-partisan expectation, we had to win despite the sample ballots created by three different groups, and now, we also had to battle lies and rumors. As my husband, Randy, explained, it felt like we were the visiting team, and all the odds were against us. We were up against a well-trained team, and we kept reinventing the strategy. Together, we worked hard, and prayerfully, it paid off. 

Thank you, especially to Rebecca Beittel, our campaign manager. She led the way with a strong voice, humor, and hard work. Thanks to Helena Wallin-Miller for her advice, encouragement, and calm focus. Thank you to Macky Kyle for his ad designs and social media expertise. Thanks to Steve, Bridget, and the Johnson/Leuck/Heckethorn family for always opening their homes for our meetings and Steve's fantastic data analysis and encouragement. Thank you to my family: my husband, Randy, for his hugs, prayers, and hard work; our three daughters and granddaughters for their hugs and smiles; and my sister, Martha, for her incredible sign war expertise. :-) I am so thankful for the strength and heart God gave me through each of you to sustain me during this journey.

Moore County is my home, and it will be an honor to serve the children, families, teachers, and staff of Moore County Schools. While the journey was challenging, it has been immensely rewarding. I hope to work alongside my fellow Board members to create a productive, collaborative leadership team that upholds and strengthens the mission of our public schools.

Thank you all for being a part of this journey! 

Remember, Public Schools = Public Good!