Hixson residents hear from Hamilton County School Board candidates
HIXSON, Tenn. (WDEF) – Hixson High School hosted the District 3 Hamilton County School Board Candidate Forum.
Hamilton County School Board Chairman Joe Smith has confirmed he will not seek reelection, leaving three candidates hoping to replace him.
The forum gave residents the opportunity to hear directly from Republican Ashley Dillon, Democrat Dr. Ruth Walker, and Independent Sandy Pricer.
Dillon said she wants schools to rely less on technology and strengthen communication with parents while improving academic achievement.
“I really want us to see our schools achieving at a very high level, where we’re not just meeting the 40 percent standard on our TCAP scores, but where we’re actually excelling in all of our basics. In our reading, and our math, and our critical thinking skills.”
Walker said her priorities include responsible budgeting and expanding mental health services for students.
“The school board made a decision to end the contract with Cornerstone Mental Health Services for 2,500 students in our district. I want to be able to bring data-based decision making to our school board and use my expertise to help our students.”
Pricer said she plans to advocate for teachers by ensuring schools have the resources and environment needed to help students succeed.
“Figure out what we need, what we want, and what we can work with because of our budget. I’ve been able to do governance and policy work and procedures.”
We also spoke with residents about what issues matter most to them ahead of the election.
Brittany Day, a parent, said preparing students for an increasingly technology driven future is her top priority.
“I’m looking to see how they plan on preparing our kids for a future that involves AI and increased technology so they’re prepared not only for the future but to compete with the private schools in the area.”
Early voting continues through Saturday, August 1. Election Day is Thursday, August 6.
Whoever wins the race will become the first woman to represent the Hixson area as the District 3 representative on the Hamilton County School Board.
