Brenda Hastings, Concord School Board Zone C Candidate

Brenda Hastings

Age (as of Election Day)

58

Position sought (including district number if applicable)

Concord School Board (Zone C)

Party Affiliation

Family

I live in Concord with my husband, Philip Hastings where we have raised our daughter Caroline.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No, none of family works in politics or government at this time.

Education

I have a Masters Degree in Education

Occupation

I was a classroom teacher at Broken Ground School for 25 years.

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

I am currently representing Zone C on the Concord School Board.

Campaign website

I have a public group page on Facebook called Brenda Hastings for Concord School Board (Zone C).

Why are you seeking elective office?

I am seeking re-election to the school board because I have a passion for, and commitment to, education. I want our school district to provide the best opportunities for our students, and I am dedicated to ensuring that every child in our community receives a high-quality and equitable education. I also believe that a strong education system is the cornerstone of a thriving community. As a returning school board member, I will continue to support our students, teachers, and administrators as we strive for excellence.

The single most pressing issue facing our (board, district, etc.) is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

The most pressing issue facing our school district at this time is improving student achievement. Our students are not where they need to be academically. While we are working to mitigate the effects of the Covid disruption, we must increase academic rigor and use best practices and, innovative teaching methods to get students where they need to be.

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

The critical difference between me and the other candidates seeking this post is my experience. I am a product of the Concord School District, I have been a parent and an elementary school teacher for 25 years in the district, and I am completing my first term on the board. I have learned a lot during my first term on the board. It is a much bigger responsibility than I anticipated and I have learned that the board is better served with a member with my experience.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

Concord has become a diverse community. I am committed to promoting inclusivity and diversity within our schools to ensure that all students have equal opportunities for success as well as providing a safe environment where they are able to share their experiences, struggles, talents and concerns and triumphs.

I will work diligently to protect our tax dollars while making sure that our schools and programs are well-funded and equipped to provide the best possible education for our students.

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

Having completed my first term on the school board I feel I am an effective advocate for students, families and the community.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

To become a lifelong learner. Education doesn't end at graduation. I have been blessed with friends and family that are lifelong learners and they have encouraged me to be curious about my world and to look at perspectives beyond my own.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I have been honored to serve our community on the Concord School Board, and I want to continue this important work. Together, we can create a brighter future for our students, teachers, families, and community. I ask for your support and your vote on November 7th. Thank you.