Chad Choate Runs For Manatee County School Board District 4 Seat

MANATEE COUNTY, FL — Manatee County voters will decide on the winner of the Manatee County School Board District 4 seat in the Aug. 23 primary election.

The following candidates are vying for the position:

• Chad Choate
• Sean L. Conley

Patch has asked all candidates to complete a questionnaire about their campaign and their priorities.

Choate, the incumbent, responded to our survey and his responses are posted below.

Campaign website

https://votechadchoate.com

City or town of residence

Bradenton

Office sought

School Board District 4

Education

Manatee high school 2003; Bachelors from University of South Florida, 2007

Occupation

Financial advisor

Family

Wife - Ashley Choate, teacher; Wesley, senior in district school; Camryn, sophomore in district school

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

Wife is a teacher

Age

37

Previous public office, appointive or elective

I was appointed to School Board last year by Gov. Ron DeSantis

Why are you seeking this office?
I was a teacher for 12 years and understand what is expected of them in the classroom. I can use my private sector experience of running my own business to help the District as well. I have an invested interest in the schools since my children attend and nephews and cousins. I want to give the students of Manatee a great education like I received being born and raised here.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

My experience in the classroom and with school finance.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?

School safety needs to remain a priority. Continuing to evaluate the procedures and training we give to our teachers and staff. Also making sure students know ALL the choices they have after high school. College, military and especially vocational/technical programs inside the district to build a skill and be workforce ready.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

Be a highly effective teacher and starting my own practice as a financial advisor.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Be true to yourself.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I am endorsed by Gov DeSantis, Sheriff Rick Wells, Sen Bill Galvano, Sen Jim Boyd, Rep Will Robinson, Mayor Gene Brown, Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge. And I will work hard to maintain their trust as well as everyone in the community.