10/22/2024
I wanted to address a recent issue with the local paper’s coverage of my responses. Unfortunately, some of my answers were misprinted. I was informed that the corrections would be made online the following day, but I have yet to see the updates on my end. The paper has assured me that the corrections will be included in this week’s print edition.
In the meantime, I will post the full, unedited version (I had to shorten my answers due to the word limit per the paper request) of my responses here to ensure you have the most accurate information. Thank you for your understanding and continued support!
Your Professional Experience:
Please share your work, volunteer, and any other relevant experience.
In all that I do, I am guided by this principle: “So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets... But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing so that your giving may be in secret.” This reflects my belief that good deeds should be done from the heart, without the need for public recognition or praise. As an educator at a private trade school, I helped students gain practical career skills and prepare for their futures. My role wasn’t seeking recognition but ensuring the students were prepared for success. It gave me firsthand knowledge of the challenges students face, and I always approached my work with the mindset that the focus should be on them, not me. As a small business owner, I’ve learned the value of caring for my community and customers while balancing the responsibilities that come with running a business. I strive to provide quality service, always keeping in mind that my work is about meeting the needs of others. The rewards I receive from this business are not found in public acknowledgment but in knowing I’ve done my part to provide value to my community. Also, I sit on the board of directors for the Rockfish Chamber of Commerce. In my personal life, I am also committed to helping others in quiet ways, such as supporting the Backpack Buddies program, which ensures children in need have meals on weekends. My contributions to this program are personal, and I do it because I believe in caring for the children of Hoke County, not because I seek recognition for it. As well as time volunteering as a classroom parent and as a supportive role in my sons school at whatever capacity I’ve been needed. Running for the Hoke County Board of Education is another step I’ve taken to give back to my community. My desire is to support students, teachers, and families through honest, hard work. I want to ensure that decisions made by the Board reflect the community's needs, and I believe in serving with integrity, following the principle of humility. My goal isn’t to be acknowledged publicly for my actions but to make a positive difference for all children in Hoke County to include my own.
Your Education Background:
Please share your own education background.
I was born and raised in Hoke County, where I attended local schools. I began my education at Scurlock Elementary, then moved on to Upchurch Elementary, followed by West Hoke Middle, and ultimately graduated from Hoke County High School. After high school, I furthered my education by gaining specialized skills that led me to my professional career in education at a private trade school. In which I hold a North Carolina State License for as well as a degree in General Education. Working in this environment deepened my understanding of how important it is to equip students with practical, career-oriented skills that prepare them for the workforce. This combination of local education and professional experience in trade education has shaped my belief in supporting diverse educational pathways for all students. I am passionate about providing students in Hoke County with opportunities that lead to academic and career success. I recently attended the North Carolina State Chamber educational conference on how to implement AI technology into the classrooms as well as building relationships with businesses that can help our students after graduation.
Do you live in Hoke County? If yes, how long have you lived here?
Yes, I live in Hoke County and have lived here almost my entire life. I was born and raised in this community, and my parents are members of this community. They attended Hoke County schools also. My husband and I have raised our boys in this community.
Have you received donations or endorsements from any groups or organizations?
If yes, which groups or organizations?
I have received endorsements from several organizations, including the Hoke County GOP, the Republican National Hispanic Association, and the Carolina Teachers Alliance. While I appreciate their support, I want to emphasize that the Board of Education is a NON-PARTISN seat, and my commitment is to work for all students, regardless of their background or beliefs. Every child in Hoke County deserves the opportunity to succeed, and I am dedicated to ensuring that all voices are heard and represented. I have received support and donations from local business owners and community members.
Is there a campaign website or contact information you want us to share with the public?
Yes, I have a campaign website where you can find more information about my platform, goals, and how to get involved: www.brockurvote.com. Additionally, you can contact me directly at 910-208-0302 with any questions or to discuss how we can work together to better Hoke County’s education. You can also visit my Facebook or Instagram page at Ashley Brock Hoke County BOE candidate.
Why are you running for the Hoke County Board of Education?
I am running for the Hoke County Board of Education because I am deeply passionate about improving the quality of education for all students in our community. As a lifelong resident of Hoke County and a parent, I have seen firsthand the challenges that students, teachers, and families face within our school system. This personal connection to the community drives my commitment to advocating for meaningful changes that will benefit our children and educators alike. One of my primary motivations is the belief that every child deserves access to a high-quality education that prepares them for success in life. Unfortunately, many students in Hoke County encounter barriers that hinder their academic progress. I have witnessed the struggles of families who want the best for their children but feel overwhelmed by the limitations of the current educational system. This experience has instilled in me a sense of urgency to address these issues and work toward solutions that will create a brighter future for our students. Education is not just about textbooks and test scores; it’s about fostering a love of learning and equipping children with the skills they need to thrive in an ever-changing world. I believe in an approach to education that includes academic excellence and character development. We need well-rounded individuals who are prepared to face the challenges of adulthood and contribute positively to society. In my role on the board of education, I would prioritize enhancing educational opportunities across the district. This means advocating for better classroom resources, such as updated technology and materials. Investing in our educators is crucial, as they are the backbone of our educational system. When teachers feel supported and equipped with the necessary tools, they can better engage and inspire their students. I also want to focus on supporting our special educational programs. Navigating the processes for 504 plans and IEPs can be daunting for families, and I want to work toward streamlining these processes to make them more accessible. Every child has unique needs, and it is essential that we provide the necessary support to help them succeed. I am committed to ensuring that all students receive the education and resources they deserve regardless of their learning challenges. Another important aspect of my campaign is promoting safety in our schools. Parents should feel confident that their children are safe while they learn. I believe in proactive measures to enhance school security and create a positive school climate where students feel valued and supported. Building strong relationships among students, staff, and parents is vital to fostering community within our schools. Community engagement is another key component of my vision for the Hoke County Board of Education. I believe that parents and community members should have a voice in decisions that affect their children’s education. Establishing clear channels for communication and feedback will help build trust between families and the school system. I want to create opportunities for parents to be actively involved in their children’s education and share their perspectives on improving our schools transparency in decision-making is essential for fostering trust within the community. As a member of the Board of Education, I would advocate for clear communication about policies, initiatives, and funding decisions. Families deserve to know how their tax dollars are being spent and how decisions are made regarding their children’s education. I believe that an informed community is an empowered community, and I will work diligently to ensure that families have access to the information they need. My commitment to education, coupled with my dedication to the values of hard work and integrity, drives my desire to contribute positively to Hoke County’s educational system. I want to ensure that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential, and I believe that, together, we can achieve this goal. My decision to run for the Hoke County Board of Education is rooted in a deep passion for education and a commitment to serving our community’s students, teachers, and families. I believe that by working collaboratively, we can create a stronger educational system that supports all students, regardless of their background or beliefs. I am dedicated to making a positive impact in Hoke County and ensuring that our schools are places where every child can thrive.
What experience, attributes, and qualities do you have that will allow you to
serve as an informed and effective member of the Hoke County Board of
Education?
I bring a unique combination of experience, attributes, and qualities that will enable me to serve as an informed and effective member of the Hoke County Board of Education. As a parent of three sons who have navigated the educational system in Hoke County, I have firsthand insight into the challenges and opportunities our schools face. This experience has instilled in me a strong desire to advocate for enhanced educational quality, equitable resources, and comprehensive support for students and teachers. I understand the emotional and practical implications of education decisions on families, making me an empathetic and informed advocate. My experience working in a private trade school has provided me with valuable insights into different educational pathways and the importance of diverse learning opportunities. I recognize that every student has unique strengths, challenges, and aspirations, and I am committed to promoting programs that cater to various learning styles and career paths. This background equips me to engage in meaningful conversations about curriculum development and vocational training, ensuring our students are prepared for future success. I firmly believe that parent involvement is essential for student success. Supporting the establishment of the Ad Hoc Parent Committee is a testament to my dedication to fostering strong partnerships between parents and educators. I want to ensure that community voices are not only heard but also actively involved in decision-making processes. Engaging parents and community members creates a collaborative environment that benefits our schools and students. Creating safe school environments is a top priority for me. I understand that students cannot thrive academically if they do not feel secure. I will advocate for policies and practices that promote safety in our schools, including mental health resources and bullying prevention programs. Additionally, I believe in transparency in decision-making. Clear communication between the Board, educators, and parents builds trust and collaboration, ensuring everyone is informed and involved in shaping our educational landscape. I am extremely passionate about streamlining the 504 and IEP processes to ensure that all students receive the necessary support to thrive academically and emotionally. Every child deserves access to quality education, and I will advocate for resources and training to support educators in meeting their students’ diverse needs. We can empower all students to reach their full potential. Having been raised by hardworking parents, I have developed a strong work ethic and a commitment to integrity and accountability. I believe in standing up for what is right and am dedicated to addressing the needs of our students and schools. My values guide my decision-making and ensure that I will prioritize the well-being of our community’s children above all else. I believe that community support is vital for our schools, and I will work to strengthen partnerships with local organizations to provide additional resources for students and families in need. By fostering a culture of community involvement, we can collectively improve the educational experience for all students.
What does a school board member do, and how is that role different from what
the school district superintendent and administrators do?
School board members create and revise district policies. These policies set the framework for school operations and ensure a positive learning environment. The board approves the district’s budget, deciding how to allocate funds for schools, programs, and staff. They ensure that resources are used effectively to benefit students and the community. Board members review and approve the curriculum to ensure it meets state standards and reflects the community’s values and educational goals. The board hires and evaluates the school district superintendent, holding them accountable for the district’s overall performance. They set goals and assess how well the superintendent meets them. Board members represent the community and gather input from parents, students, and community members. They advocate for community needs and keep constituents informed about important issues. They engage in strategic planning to address future challenges, such as enrollment growth and facility needs. Board members advocate for policies and funding at local, state, and national levels that support their district and its students. The superintendent is the district’s chief executive officer, responsible for daily operations. They manage staff, oversee principals, and implement the board’s policies. The superintendent provides guidance on academic standards and goals, working to improve student achievement. They supervise district personnel, including teachers and administrative staff, ensuring effective training and development. While the board sets policies, the superintendent puts them into action within the district. The superintendent links the school board and district staff, parents, and the community, keeping everyone informed. Administrators, like principals, manage the daily operations of individual schools. They oversee staff and students and ensure the school runs smoothly. They maintain a safe environment, handle disciplinary issues, and implement safety protocols. Administrators ensure that the curriculum is delivered effectively in their schools, supporting teachers and providing resources. They engage with parents and the community, fostering relationships that support student success and promote school activities. Administrators analyze student performance data to identify areas for improvement and implement strategies to enhance learning.
The school board works for the parents; the superintendent works for the school board, and the administration works for the superintendent.
What school facilities needs in Hoke County are most pressing in 2024, and how
would you, as a Board of Education member, choose to prioritize and address
those needs?
Hoke County faces several significant school facilities needs that demand immediate attention to ensure a safe, effective, and supportive learning environment for all students. As a prospective Board of Education member, I recognize that addressing these needs will require a collaborative effort involving parents, community members, educators, and district leadership. One of the most pressing issues in Hoke County is the need for new schools to accommodate the growing student population. As enrollment continues to rise, many existing schools are overcrowded, which leads to larger class sizes and strained resources. Overcrowded classrooms can hinder effective teaching and learning, negatively impacting student outcomes. I would advocate for a thorough analysis of enrollment trends and projections to understand the long-term needs of school facilities. This data will help us identify where new schools are most needed. Based on these projections, I would work with district leadership to develop a comprehensive plan for constructing new schools in strategic locations to serve the growing population effectively. Engaging parents and community members in discussions about the need for new schools. Ensuring the safety of students and staff is a top priority in our schools. I would advocate for a comprehensive safety assessment of all school facilities to identify vulnerabilities and prioritize improvements. This assessment would include input from local law enforcement and emergency services. Based on the assessment, I would work with the Board to allocate funds for upgrading security systems, including installing more surveillance cameras, controlled access points, and emergency communication tools. Regular training for staff and students on emergency protocols is essential. I would support initiatives that ensure all school personnel are trained in crisis response procedures, including lockdown drills and evacuation plans. Retention of qualified teachers is vital for maintaining high educational standards in Hoke County. Many teachers face challenges due to overcrowded classrooms, inadequate facilities, and a lack of resources. Improving working conditions and providing support can foster a positive environment encouraging teachers to stay in the district. I would advocate for developing dedicated spaces for teachers to collaborate and plan lessons. These spaces can improve job satisfaction and support effective teaching. I would work to allocate funds for workshops, training sessions, and mentorship programs. Regular surveys and teacher feedback sessions can help identify their needs and concerns. I would prioritize creating an open line of communication between teachers and the Board to address issues and improve working conditions. Active parental involvement has to happen for the success of students and schools. Parents engaging with schools fosters a strong sense of community and enhances student achievement. Encouraging parental participation in school activities and decision-making processes can significantly impact the educational environment. I would advocate for programs that encourage parents to volunteer in schools through tutoring, mentoring, or assisting with events. Creating a welcoming environment for parents will promote their involvement. Organizing community events, such as open houses, workshops, and family nights, can bring parents into the schools and foster connections between families and educators. AD HOC PARENT COMMITTEE!!
What actions can the Board of Education take to help the district recruit,
retain, and support teachers? What about bus drivers? Other staff
positions?
To effectively recruit, retain, and support teachers, bus drivers, and other staff, the Board of Education can take several actions tailored to each group’s needs: For Teachers: Competitive Compensation: Advocate for increased salaries and benefits packages to ensure teachers are paid competitively with surrounding districts. This may involve working with state officials and exploring additional local funding options to boost teacher pay, including stipends for advanced degrees or specialized certifications. Improved Working Conditions: Focus on reducing class sizes and minimizing non-teaching tasks, such as excessive paperwork, to give teachers more time to focus on students. Also, ensure that schools are adequately staffed with support personnel to alleviate the burden on teachers, which can be done by allowing more parents in the schools. Recognition and Respect: Implement programs that celebrate teacher achievements and create a culture of respect. Recognizing teachers with awards, special events, or incentives for innovation in the classroom would boost morale and reinforce that teachers are valued. Teacher Retention Programs: Offer retention bonuses, and housing assistance that doesn’t increase every so many months for teachers moving here until they become more established. This would help retain experienced educators, especially in hard-to-fill positions. For Bus Drivers: Competitive Wages and Benefits: Increase pay rates for bus drivers to ensure they are competitive with other transportation jobs in the region. Providing benefits, like health insurance and retirement options, would also attract and retain drivers. Flexible Work Hours and Paid Training: Offer more flexible scheduling options and paid training for new drivers. This could involve creating part-time and substitute driver positions to make the job more accessible for those with other commitments. The county cover the costs of CDL training and certification to attract more candidates. Driver Retention Incentives: Implement retention bonuses for drivers who stay for multiple school years or perfect attendance incentives. Small rewards like these can significantly impact driver morale and retention. Improve Working Conditions: Ensure that buses are in good working condition and that drivers have access to the support they need, such as communication tools and safety training. Prioritizing the maintenance of buses and ensuring a smooth communication process with school administrators can help reduce driver frustration. For Other Staff Positions (e.g., Custodians, Cafeteria Workers, Office Staff) Competitive Pay and Benefits: As with bus drivers, offering competitive wages and benefits is essential. For many staff positions, this might include adjusting pay scales to reflect inflation and regional standards for similar work. Professional Development & Career Advancement: Provide opportunities for career advancement and skill development. Offering training for staff to advance to supervisory roles or move into other areas of education (e.g., paraprofessionals moving into teaching roles) can motivate them to stay with the district. Recognition and Appreciation: Host more recognition events and acknowledge their hard work, much like with teachers. Celebrating support staff contributions to the smooth operation of the schools can boost morale and create a more positive working environment. Creating a Positive Work Environment: Ensure a respectful and supportive work culture across all departments. Providing staff with the resources they need to do their jobs well, as well as offering employee wellness programs, can make a big difference in job satisfaction. By prioritizing competitive compensation, professional development, recognition, and improved working conditions, the Board of Education can create a more supportive and attractive environment for all staff positions. This, in turn, will lead to better recruitment and retention, ensuring that Hoke County Schools have the skilled, dedicated workforce needed to provide students with a high-quality education. This initiative will naturally require collaboration with the County Commissioners. If they share our goal of providing a better education for our students, we believe they should allocate the necessary funds to help make this vision a reality.
Are there any school policies at the local or state level that you would like
to see changed? If so, what changes would you like to see?
In terms of state-level policies for Exceptional Children (EC), IEPs, and 504 plans, I would like to see several changes: Consistency in Implementation: There needs to be clearer and more consistent guidelines across school districts to ensure that EC, IEP, and 504 processes are followed uniformly. Often, families experience a lack of consistency in how these plans are developed and enforced, which leads to gaps in the support provided to children. Accountability and Transparency: Schools should be more accountable for the timely development and implementation of IEPs and 504s. Increased transparency is essential so parents and guardians can monitor the progress and ensure their child is receiving the appropriate accommodations and services. Streamlining the Process: The process for obtaining and reviewing these plans can be overwhelming and time-consuming. I would advocate for a more streamlined approach to ensure that students receive the support they need as quickly as possible. Parental Involvement: Policies should be amended to require more meaningful parental involvement throughout the entire process. Parents know their children’s needs better than anyone, so they should have a stronger voice in shaping the accommodations and services provided. Funding and Resources: The state should allocate more funding to special education programs and services to ensure that schools have the proper resources to meet the needs of EC students. Teachers and support staff should also receive specialized training to work with children who have IEPs and 504s. These changes would ensure a more equitable and effective system for supporting children with special needs. I would also advocate for stronger enforcement of timelines in setting up IEPs and 504 plans. Current policies often allow too much time before accommodations are implemented, which can delay critical support for students. I believe these plans should be finalized and put into action by day one of the school year or as soon as a need is identified, with minimal delays. This would ensure that students are not left without necessary accommodations while waiting for paperwork or assessments to be completed. Early preparation and implementation would set students up for success from the very beginning.
What are the greatest strengths of Hoke County Schools? What can the
school board do to grow those strengths?
One of the greatest strengths of Hoke County Schools is its Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. These programs provide students with hands-on learning experiences that prepare them for the workforce or higher education, offering valuable skills in fields like healthcare, trades, and technology. To grow these strengths, the school board can take several key actions. Expand CTE Offerings to Include Emerging Technologies like AI. The board should consider creating a new program focused on artificial intelligence (AI) and its growing importance in the workforce and educational system. AI is rapidly becoming a critical field, and introducing students to AI concepts—like machine learning, automation, and data analysis—would give them a competitive edge. By partnering with tech companies or universities, the district could develop a curriculum that integrates AI skills into high school CTE programs, preparing students for future careers in this fast-growing industry. Implement More CTE Programs at the Middle School Level. Offering CTE-focused programs in middle schools would help students explore different career paths earlier in their academic journeys. Introducing courses like coding, robotics, or basic engineering classes vs. after-school programs can spark interest in technology and innovation while helping students identify potential career interests before entering high school. This early exposure will also increase student engagement and motivation. Build Stronger Community and Business Partnerships. The board should continue to build partnerships with local businesses, industries, and higher education institutions to support CTE programs. These partnerships could provide mentorship opportunities, internships, and real-world learning experiences for students, making their education more relevant to the job market. Encouraging businesses to contribute to curriculum development or offer funding for state-of-the-art equipment would further enhance the quality of the CTE programs. Expand Access to Industry Certifications and Dual Enrollment to strengthen CTE programs. The board can work on expanding access to industry-recognized certifications and dual enrollment opportunities with local community colleges. This would allow students to graduate high school with both a diploma and certifications that make them job-ready, or with college credits that position them ahead of their peers in higher education. By expanding CTE programs to include emerging fields like AI, increasing opportunities for middle school students, and fostering strong partnerships with businesses and higher education, Hoke County Schools can enhance its existing strengths and provide students with the skills needed for a successful future.
Has the Hoke County Board of Education made any decisions in recent
years that you did not agree with, and if so, what would you have done
differently?
Yes, there are two key decisions made by the Hoke County Board of Education in recent years that I do not agree with. Not Implementing an Ad Hoc Parent Committee. The lack of a formal parent committee to provide input on important decisions limits community involvement and transparency. Parents are valuable stakeholders who have a direct interest in the success of our schools. I believe approving the Ad Hoc Parent Advisory Committee would have allowed for more constructive dialogue between parents and the board, giving the board a better understanding of concerns and ideas from families. I would have advocated for the establishment of such a committee, ensuring that parents from various schools and backgrounds had representation. This committee would serve as a bridge between the board and the community, offering insight on policy changes, budget priorities, and educational programs. This involvement would have increased accountability and trust in decision-making. Not Building New Schools. With the population of Hoke County steadily growing, it is disappointing that no new schools have been built to alleviate overcrowding and improve learning environments. Overcrowded classrooms can negatively impact student performance and teacher retention, as resources are stretched thin. I would have pushed for a long-term facilities plan that included the construction of new schools or the expansion of existing ones. Planning for growth is crucial to ensure that students have safe, effective spaces to learn. I would also have prioritized securing funding through state resources or bond referendums to make sure these projects were feasible without overburdening the local budget. By addressing both community involvement and facilities needs, we can create a stronger, more responsive school system in Hoke County.
What needs to happen in Hoke County Schools to improve student
achievement and give students the best chance for a successful future?
What can the Board of Education do to work toward that?
To improve student achievement and give students the best chance for a successful future in Hoke County Schools, several key actions need to take place. Focus on Early Intervention and Literacy: One of the most effective ways to improve student achievement is to invest in early intervention programs, particularly in literacy. Ensuring that students are proficient in reading by third grade is crucial, as literacy skills form the foundation for future academic success. The board can prioritize funding for early literacy programs, additional reading specialists, and targeted interventions for struggling students. Expanding access to pre-K and early childhood education programs is also essential in preparing students for success when they enter kindergarten. Support Teachers with Resources and Training. Teachers need the proper support, and resources to be effective in the classroom. Providing teachers with ongoing training in new instructional strategies, classroom management, and technology will help them engage students and raise achievement levels. Expand Career and Technical Education (CTE) Giving students practical skills through CTE programs is critical in preparing them for the workforce or higher education. CTE pathways that align with the demands of local industries provide students with hands-on experience and real-world skills. The board can expand partnerships with local businesses and industries to create internship and apprenticeship opportunities. By developing more robust CTE programs, students can graduate with certifications, job skills, or college credits, setting them up for success whether they choose to pursue higher education or enter the workforce directly. Smaller Class Sizes and Individualized Support. Overcrowded classrooms can hinder student achievement by making it difficult for teachers to give individualized attention. Smaller class sizes and targeted support for students who need it can significantly improve outcomes. The board should work to reduce class sizes by hiring more teachers and considering expansion plans to alleviate overcrowded schools. They can also increase funding for special education and intervention programs to ensure that students who need extra help receive the support they require. Engaging parents and the community in the educational process creates a stronger student support system. When parents are involved, students tend to have higher achievement levels and better attitudes toward school. The board can promote more opportunities for parental involvement, such as volunteer programs, and frequent communication between schools and families. Encouraging businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations to support local schools through mentorship programs and extracurricular activities would also strengthen community ties. By addressing these areas, the Hoke County Board of Education can create an environment that nurtures student achievement and prepares students for a successful future.
If elected to the Hoke County Board of Education, my primary commitment
would be to maintain open lines of communication with both parents and
teachers.
To ensure accountability, I would establish regular listening sessions with parents and teachers to discuss concerns, gather feedback, and provide updates on board actions. These sessions would create a space where parents and educators feel heard and valued, and their input can directly inform decisions being made. Advocate for Transparent Decision-Making. I would push for more transparency in board decisions, making sure that policies, budget allocations, and any significant changes in the school system are clearly communicated. Approve the ad hoc Parent committee. Support Teacher-Led Initiatives: I would regularly meet with teachers and school staff to understand their challenges and needs. I would also advocate for more teacher input on school policies and encourage teachers to take part in committees that shape curriculum and resource allocation, ensuring that their voices are heard at the decision-making level. Accessible and Open Communication Channels. I would make myself accessible to the community through multiple channels, whether that’s via email, social media, or in-person meetings. Additionally, I would provide timely responses to concerns raised by parents and teachers, demonstrating that their issues are a priority and being actively addressed. By fostering open communication, transparency, and regular collaboration with the community, I will remain accountable to the concerns of both parents and teachers, working to create positive and meaningful changes in our schools.
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