Candidate: Carlton 'Les ' Nichols

I am running for Manatee County School Board District 5 and would be honored to represent Manatee County schools. As the father of 3 children I understand the importance of a good education. Over the last 15 years as a Florida resident, my two oldest children had the benefit of attending top ranking schools in Santa Rosa County while we lived in the Panhandle of Florida. Here in Manatee County I want my youngest son to receive the same opportunities and education that his brothers received. To put things in perspective, out of 65 Florida school districts, Santa Rosa County ranks 5th and Manatee County ranks 50th… this is shocking! What’s worse is that Manatee County School District dropped from a B rating to a C in 2012. Before 2012 Manatee County was a B rated school district for over 9 years. How did Manatee County go from a B rating to dropping 15 points away from the bottom of the grading scale? It seems that where Manatee County Schools struggle is where education is the most important; Elementary School. Manatee County elementary schools are ranked 38th of Florida’s 65 districts. How can we expect the teenagers in our community to be focused on education when the community isn’t focused on early education? As a member of this community this personally concerns me and I am focused on making a difference. The children of Manatee County deserve the best education possible and I am committed to making that happen. As a Marine Corps Veteran I have seen firsthand how trusted leadership, great team work and a clear focus on objectives can overcome adversity. As a Member of the Manatee County School Board I will take these attributes with me. I am ready for the challenge and will work hard to create a school district we can be proud of. There is nothing more important to the success of our community than providing top rated education for the children of this district. To achieve this I also realize the importance of creating a system that benefits our teachers and that provides the tools needed for success. I am your Manatee County School Board Candidate and dedicated to the work needed to be the best! Vote Carlton (Les) Nichols for 2014 Manatee County School Board District 5 Go to my Facebook page and let’s move forward https://www.facebook.com/pages/Les-Nichols/196023113907516?ref=hl Also you can view information about me and upcoming events at the link below: votenichols2014.com 716 46th St E Bradenton FL 34208 (850) 910-2969 les@votenichols2014.com