Voter’s Guide 2024: Meet the candidates for Board of Education District 5
Published 8:00 am Friday, October 25, 2024
F. Mac Hodges
Residence: Washington
Highest level of education: 14 Graduate of Pitt Community College
Occupation: Field Representative, NC Farm Bureau Federation, Funeral Director, Paul Funeral Home
Political affiliation: Democrat
Personal statement:
I have been a member of the Beaufort County Board of Education since 1984. Throughout my 40 years of service, I have worked with students, teachers, administrators, parents, community members and business partners to ensure all students have access to a quality education. I have been a strong advocate for Beaufort County students to be prepared for post-secondary experiences, whether it be employment, enlistment into the armed services, or enrollment into technical trade school or college. I have helped secure a $42 million Needs-Based Public School Capital Fund grant to construct Washington Elementary School, a Prekindergarten through Grade 3 school which will open in August 2026. I advocated for the 1.2 million Golden Leaf grant that established a Boat Building pathway at Washington High School that is embedded in the Career & Technical Education program. When the COVID pandemic resulted in public school closures across Beaufort County and North Carolina, I advocated on behalf of the community to open schools and return students to the classrooms. I have worked closely with teachers and administrators to provide resources necessary to close achievement gaps created by the COVID pandemic. As a result, nine of 12 schools measured by the SY24 NC Accountability Model increased their school performance scores, 100% of the elementary schools increased their school performance scores, nine of 12 schools met or exceeded growth, two schools advanced out of low performing designation were removed. Beyond our county, I serve as Vice President on the North Carolina School Boards Association’s Board of Directors where I assist in the development of programs that support up to 115 public schools across North Carolina, including Beaufort County Schools. Locally, I serve as a Field Representative at the North Carolina Farm Bureau Federation. I would appreciate your vote so I may continue this most valuable work in providing a strong quality education for the children of Beaufort County.
Stacey Davis
Residence: Washington
Highest level of education: Bs. c.
Occupation: Public Relations & Marketing Specialist
Political affiliation: Republican
Personal statement:
My platform is built on principles of moral values, integrity, and dedication creating a conducive learning environment for all students. I hold a strong belief our curriculums have become a battleground, infiltrated by divisive agendas. I’ll defend our educators as much as our students against ridiculous theories that stray from academics. I aim to restore focus on foundational education that allows children to be children at every developmental stage.
I bring a unique skill set for transparency, parental dissemination, and renewed brand-value, back into our schools. My involvement in various boards and teams such as NC Pre-k, PTO’s, AmeriCorp, Jaycees, CoC’s, CHK, Tedi-Bear Advocacy, and NC Foster Care programs, showcase a dedication to community service and my ability to drive positive change.
My educational background includes certifications in teaching, real estate, trauma-based care, CNA, & several others in technology, digital marketing, and sales. Also, a BSc in public relations.