Candidates vying for Greenville County School Board District 25 seat

Editor’s note: Early voting begins in South Carolina for the November 5 general election. this Monday, October 21st. The Greenville News asked candidates in the competitive race to answer questions related to the position they are seeking before ballots are cast.

Here’s what candidates Greg Cantrell and Jack Logan had to say about the Greenville County School District 25 race. Incumbent Michelle Goodwin-Calvile did not respond to the questionnaire.

What is your professional experience?

Cantrell: I have spent forty-three years passionately advocating for the rights of children and families. I spent my first three years as a teacher and football coach in Anderson School District 1. I was then promoted to assistant principal and served as principal in the district for many years. After that, I began my career in Spartanburg School District 6 as the Director of Human Resources, then Assistant Superintendent, Assistant Superintendent, and finally Deputy Superintendent.

Logan: Health professional and community activist.

Tell us a little about your family and personal background.

Cantrell: I’ve been married to my childhood sweetheart for forty-eight years. I am lucky to have two daughters and four grandchildren. Two of my grandchildren attend Greenville County Schools. I am a graduate of Woodmont High School. I also attended Lander College where I received my bachelor’s degree. I continued my education by attending Clemson University where I received my master’s degree. Finally, I received my PhD from South Carolina State University.

Logan: I worked with children and adolescents as a substitute school teacher in Spartanburg, South Carolina. I coached kids ages five and up to play professional football with Gabriel Wilkins and then won four Super Bowl rings with the Greenbay Packers. I coached kids in baseball and track and field to get them to go on to play college baseball and go on to AAU track and field. In 2010, I founded the youth organization Put Your Guns Down, Youth Now, where we teach children and teenagers not to pick up guns. We also help them find work and help with education.

Where do you live and how long have you lived there?

Cantrell: I live on Route 25 in the house where my wife grew up. We have lived in this house since 1990.

Logan: Greenville, South Carolina

Why are you running for school board? What will be your top priorities if elected?

Cantrell: I spent 43 years advocating for children and their families. Recruiting and retaining teachers is important, as is improving conditions for teachers in schools and classrooms. We must also ensure the safety of students and staff. Ensure safety precautions such as the presence of school resource officers, entry detection devices, and regular quality training within the school as well as between support agencies. I also support efficient, effective and transparent funding for our school district. Funding must be targeted to the school and class.

Logan: Safer Schools

What do you think needs to be done to address economic growth in your county?

Cantrell: I think we should use data that is more demographic in nature rather than just looking at vertical growth. We need to keep an eye on trends to stay on top of the long-term needs of facilities. This should be done on an ongoing basis.

Logan: Safety for all students waiting for school buses early in the morning

The safety of students at school is always top priority for families. What do you think the school board could do to make your district’s schools safer?

Cantrell: I believe the county needs to ensure all training is updated across all agencies, including law enforcement, fire and EMS. I would recommend using the phrase “See something, say something” which is currently in effect. I would consider expanding Evolve’s login system. I have implemented this in Spartanburg District 6, Dorman High School and all the high schools in the district, and I believe in this system. I would also like to continue to have counselors in all schools in the district. Understanding students’ mental health is also critical to safety.

Logan: Evolv systems in all schools

Decisions about what books should be allowed in classrooms or school libraries are a common topic at school board meetings. How do you plan to approach requests for reconsideration?

Cantrell: There needs to be a policy review and an updated mechanism for parents and community concerns to be heard. School districts do not need to deprive parents of decisions about whether books or materials are appropriate or not. There is a need to gather and evaluate information and engage in civil dialogue to make the best decisions for all students. I believe I bring experience and the ability to listen and discern; helping to lead by following current policies and procedures. If elected, I will ensure that I am available to address any issues that may arise in the district.

Logan: I will hold town hall meetings for my constituents and then make the best decision based on the reaction of my constituents.