Why would someone want to run for elected office in today’s highly abrasive political environment? Why would someone be willing to subject themselves to the possibility of personal attacks, smear campaigns and unbelievable distortions of the truth that we see on an unprecedented scale across all political spectrums?
In regards to Kathy Lennon, candidate for Hamilton County School District 2, we can tell you why. It is because she truly cares about the children of Hamilton County.
She has been a teacher, a coach, a development coordinator and community activist for years. Her experience allows her to have the unique ability to understand the needs of the teachers, staff and administrators who are working very hard every day to make Hamilton County Schools great. We have worked with Kathy, and can attest to her passion, knowledge and dedication as a great educator.
We believe she will be a great addition to the School Board. Kathy will bring the needed perspective of a caring educator who will collaborate with board ,embers to put the families of Hamilton County first.
Matthew and Vickie Stovall
Signal Mountain
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Very often teachers do not live in the community in which they have the pleasure of teaching. I am one of those teachers. As I can only sit back and support the candidate I feel is most qualified and equipped, I want to share my experiences (not in detailed length) with Kathy Lennon, and how I believe she is needed as a member of the school board now more than ever.
I first encountered Kathy as one of my teachers in kindergarten. She was one of those teachers a student can have as a young child and never forget. As I continued through middle school and entered high school, she was a teacher there as well. As a teacher at my high school, she was the community service director and organized service opportunities for the whole student body every quarter of the school year. It was through my community service projects that I was introduced to an early childhood program at a school in Avondale that I began learning that I, too, wanted to become a teacher. She was also the high school swim coach, and I was able to observe her coaching many athletes as they competed during meets.
As an adult, I've encountered her many times enjoying the Chattanooga Farmers' Market on Sunday's, always with a smile and making sure people had what they needed. There are so many other activities and outreach that I haven't mentioned, but it is obvious that she is an active member of the community and especially with the children of our beautiful city. Throughout the 22 years that I have known Kathy, there was never an encounter I had with her that I didn't feel like I was recognized and loved.
Now, as a teacher of middle schoolers, I know that is one of the most important attributes any individual needs to possess when working with school-aged children. Now, Kathy is wanting to show her ultimate love and recognition of the students in our county by participating as an advocate for them as a member of the school board.
Throughout her community involvement, I have witnessed her facilitating valuable experiences for students and bringing community businesses and local farmers together for the community. Imagine what she could do as a school board member?
Shaina Manning
Signal Mountain Middle High School