Nothing is more important than the education and development of our young people. The saying “children are our future” is much more than an overused and redundant cliché. For three decades, Up & Coming Weekly and Kidsville News! have been directly involved and committed to quality education in Cumberland County through our relationships with Cumberland County Schools, FTCC, Fayetteville State University, Methodist University, and Miller Motte College.
The ballot for the upcoming November election will have many candidates vying for three seats on the Cumberland County School Board. This is, without a doubt, one of the most vitally important boards in our community — a board that ultimately affects the lives of future generations and helps define the quality of life for all Cumberland County residents.
It needs leadership that is laser focused on the latest and greatest educational resources and innovative programs, and policies that will propel and prepare our children for a prosperous future. It is surely not a place to find fault, grandstand, or to be used as a political platform for partisan bias.
U&CW readers are voters. I have invited all school board candidates to speak directly to our readers about how and why they want to serve on this very important and distinguished board. This is the first submission, and I sincerely hope all candidates will take advantage of this opportunity. This is what community newspapers do — we inform, we engage, and we help strengthen the civic fabric of Cumberland County.
Thank you for reading Up & Coming Weekly.
—Bill Bowman, Publisher
My Vision for the future of Cumberland County
For more than three decades, I have had the privilege of serving the students, families, and educators of Cumberland County. During my career as a teacher, coach, assistant principal, and principal, I have learned that while education continually evolves, one principle should never change: every decision must begin with one simple question—What is best for every student?
If the citizens of Cumberland County elect me to serve on the Board of Education this November, that question will guide every vote I cast and every decision I make.
I envision a school system where academic excellence and student well-being go hand in hand. Every child deserves access to a safe, welcoming learning environment where they are challenged to reach their full potential and supported by caring, highly qualified educators.
Excellence should not be limited by a student's ZIP code, background, or circumstances. Every school should have the resources and leadership necessary to help students succeed.
Our teachers and school employees are the foundation of our educational system. They deserve to work in schools where they feel respected, supported, and empowered to do what they do best—teach. Recruiting and retaining exceptional educators must remain one of our highest priorities. Investing in our people is one of the greatest investments we can make in our students.
As a Board member, I also believe fiscal responsibility is essential. Taxpayers deserve confidence that every dollar entrusted to our schools is spent wisely, transparently, and with students at the center of every budget decision. Strong stewardship of public resources allows us to maximize opportunities for students while maintaining the trust of our community.
The Board of Education cannot accomplish its mission alone. The strongest schools are built through partnerships among families, educators, local businesses, faith communities, and civic organizations. I want to strengthen those partnerships and ensure parents continue to have a meaningful voice in their children's education. When communities work together, students benefit.
Technology, career readiness, and workforce development will also play an increasingly important role in preparing students for life after graduation. Whether a student chooses college, military service, technical training, or enters the workforce directly, our schools should equip every graduate with the knowledge, skills, and character needed to thrive in an ever-changing world.
Finally, I believe leadership matters. Effective leadership requires listening first, seeking common ground, and making thoughtful decisions based on facts rather than politics. The Board's responsibility is not to create division but to build consensus around what is best for children. I bring experience that you can talk to!
Cumberland County has outstanding students, dedicated educators, and a community that deeply values public education. Together, we have the opportunity to build upon those strengths and create an educational system that prepares every student for success while earning the confidence of the families we serve.
If I am given the opportunity to serve, I will remain committed to the principle that has guided my entire career: always do what's best for every student.
(Photo: Tom Hatch will be running for one of the open seats on the Cumberland County Board of Education this November. Photo courtesy of Tom Hatch)