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Name: Michelle Williams
Date of birth: October 17, 1982
Campaign website or social media page:
www.VoteMishell.com
Occupation: Education
Education: Bachelor’s degree – Elementary Education. Master’s Program – Curriculum and Instruction: Literacy
Have you run for office before?
no
Please highlight the highlights of citizen participation.
2+ years of PTO leadership. At school, we volunteer to read in small groups. Orton Gillingham Reading Tutor. Fellow of the Institute for Political Leadership.
What are the most important issues in Cabarrus County Schools today and how will you address them?
Our county’s rapid growth has increased the demand for educational resources and personnel in our schools, and I support that. I am committed to understanding why teachers leave and taking proactive steps to improve retention, including conducting exit interviews to gather insights from departing teachers. Additionally, we aim to prioritize physical safety and mental health by implementing comprehensive student and faculty safety measures that I advocate.
If you were elected to serve on the school board, what are your ideas for improving student achievement?
I advocate training teachers in an evidence-based teaching method called Orton-Gillingham (a systematic multisensory approach to teaching). This introduces strategies that allow for differentiated instruction and meeting children where they are. Improving reading comprehension leads to better results. I advocate for professional development, competitive pay, and resources for teacher retention. Advocating for mental health services will also lead to better outcomes.
What do you think about the school system’s redistricting plan approved earlier this year, and what, if anything, could have happened differently?
The board decided to implement the redistricting plan. This was to balance school enrollments and reduce overcrowded schools in response to an expected increase in the number of children from 35,000 to 40,000 by the end of 2010. I would like to discuss the impact of allowing children entering their final year of school to finish school at their current school, and the possibility of allowing special circumstances (such as a small community of 12 children) to attend the school closest to their current school. I think I wanted to explore sexuality.
What is the plan to address the achievement gap in Cabarrus County?
As a certified teacher and mother of children in our school district, I am an advocate for preschool programs. Early literacy support is essential to build a strong foundation before entering primary school. We must also meet data-driven needs. I advocate for equitable resource allocation, encourage multisensory training (not all children learn the same way), strengthen family involvement, and encourage academic interventions. Additionally, assess whether the needs of the whole child are being met. Failure to do so may affect the child’s overall health.
What role, if any, does your political affiliation play in the district’s decision-making process?
When it comes to school boards, I believe this role must advocate for the best outcomes for all children and families, regardless of political affiliation. Even though I am a qualified teacher, when I look at students and parents, I don’t look at them based on political affiliation. I approach decision-making the same way. When I began my candidacy, I pledged to represent humanity and support all children, families, and staff. I have pledged to make sure our schools are well-run and to advocate for equity and inclusion. As a parent, certified teacher, and active PTO board member who frequently visits schools, I use these important insights to advocate for the needs of our schools.
What separates you from your opponent and makes you the best choice on the November ballot?
I am a certified teacher and mother of young children in my school district. I have direct experience working with resources and programs within the district. Prior to considering running for this position, I served as the PTO VP at my child’s school, where I assisted and continue to assist the staff in meeting the board’s various needs. While every school district has room for improvement, I also recognize the strengths of our public schools and aim to work to make them even better.
