As part of our continuing effort to bring local news that’s impactful to our readers, we’ve proactively reached out to the six candidates running for the Fort Mill School Board and offered then a chance to submit an article for our readers. As we receive responses, we will share them here, unedited.
Below, we’ll introduce you to Michelle Hoffman. For a list of all candidates, please refer to the article from our sister paper published several weeks ago: https://tegacaysun.com/2023/09/08/candidates-for-tega-cay-city-council/
Hello, my name is Michelle Hoffman and I’m running for Fort Mill school board because I am a Parent, Teacher, and Leader!
I am a Parent to 2 girls in the Fort Mill School District. I have an 8th grader at Forest Creek Middle School and 1 sophomore at Catawba Ridge High. I have been married to my husband, John for 18 years and previously lived in Charlotte where I worked at E*Trade Financial. During the 2008 recession, I followed my heart into the classroom and went back and got my masters to teach because I wanted to help students.
I graduated from Queens University in Charlotte and then began teaching at Myers Park Traditional School. My husband was working for LPL Financial at the time and when they moved their headquarters to Fort Mill, we decided to move to Fort Mill because the schools were so good and as a native South Carolinian, I couldn’t wait to get back to South Carolina.
I began teaching at Doby’s Bridge Elementary. It was our neighborhood school and I taught in 2nd grade for 5 years and this is where I became a Leader. I served on our School Improvement Council, served as Grade Level Chair, Professional Learning Community Chair, and in 2020, I was named Winthrop University’s Outstanding Collaborating Mentor Teacher.
I also serve the community as the current Co-Chair of the Greenway Ladies Guild, which is a philanthropic organization that benefits the Anne Springs Close Greenway. I also sit on the Youth Ministry Team at Unity Presbyterian Church.
My campaign is focused on 4 major issues that I think are vitally important as a former teacher in this district. I will focus on retaining and attracting teachers. Rock Hill School District increased their beginning teacher salary to $52,000, while ours is still at $50,000. We’re the best school district in the state and I’d like to keep it that way by keeping our salaries competitive, especially with neighboring districts.
Next, I would like to create more transparency in school and district decisions. When we understand the why behind decisions, we feel more included and empowered. Greater transparency builds trust in our community. I would also like to enhance support services for students and teachers by expanding resources for counseling, special education, and mental health. In my firsthand experience, I’ve seen a greater need since Covid.
My last reason for running is to focus on expanding our academic and extracurricular opportunities. I would like to see more vocational training programs. I know we’ve added CTE classes, but I’d like to see more and even a Vocational Center. I’ve also heard from a lot of parents that would like more language programs especially beginning at a younger age. And, I’ve heard from parents and students that would like an orchestra. Many students like to play an instrument, but might not be able to march in band. When we provide more choices, we can ensure every student finds their passion and thrives. I’m very proud of all that we’ve accomplished in Fort Mill School District and am focused on achieving more in the future!
Please vote for me on November 5th because I’m a Parent, Teacher, and Leader.
Follow me on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/hoffmanforfmsd.
Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/hoffman4fmsdschoolboard/
Check out my website: https://hoffmanforfmsd.com
Thank you for your time!
Michelle Hoffman, Candidate Fort Mill School Board, At-Large Seat
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