Candidate: Linda B. Powers

An effective school board member must be multifaceted to understand the community served; be a leader in that community; be aware of the many levels and roles in education; possess a sincere and abiding dedication to educational excellence; be familiar with the business aspects of the school system; maintain a positive and secure atmosphere on campuses; be aware of the school system at all levels and in multiple roles; possess a dedication to educational excellence for all students and staff.  In addition, the board member must be a seeker of knowledge, effective communication and solutions involving all participants in education and the community.  My focus has always been on learning, involvement and striving for excellence from the first moment I entered school as a student through today. I truly believe in the power of education and that Citrus County can continue to have an exemplary educational system.

I pledge to expand our accomplishments, increase our achievements and champion the physical and emotional well-being of the students and staff. With your support, I shall work consistently to serve the needs of Citrus County as your re-elected school board member.

 EDUCATION:  Master of Arts in Guidance and Counseling, Rollins College, Winter Park, Fl.; Master of Science, English Education, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Fl.; Bachelor of Arts, English, Jacksonville University, Jacksonville, Fl.; Associate of Arts, St. Johns River Junior College, Palatka, Fl. English for speakers of Other Languages, (ESOL Endorsement), additional graduate work in Educational Leadership.

EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE:  39 years and continuing. Teacher:  Elementary, Middle, High School and Community College; Counselor-- Middle School; Department Head--High School; Assistant Principal and Acting Principal—Elementary and Middle School; Citrus Education Foundation; Florida School Board Legislative Committee and Board

 BUSINESS EXPERIENCE:   Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Office and Store Manager; Marketing Researcher; Editor; Licensed Realtor

 MEMBERSHIPS:  PAST BOARD MEMBER:  Withlacochee Regional Planning Council—Governor Appointee; Citrus County Family Visitation Center; Habitat for Humanity; Salvation Army; Eckerd Youth Camp; Seminole Humane Society; Membership in Altrusa, International Reading Association; Florida Mental Health Counselors Association; School Enhancement Councils; Little League Sponsor; Little League Umpire; Citrus County Fair Board and Association

CURRENT Memberships: Several School Advisory Enhance Councils; Citrus County Strategic Planning Committee; Elementary School Student Progression Committee; Habitat for Humanity Board, Florida Farm Bureau; Community Leadership, & Legislative Committees for Fl.

 RECOGNITIONS AND AWARDS

Nomination Teacher of the Year; Assistant Principal’s Recognition Award; Leadership Citrus 2005; Most Admired Educator, Altrusa; Christian Athletes Service Award; Volunteer Counselor Crisis Center; Certified Member (Florida School Board Association, 2007+);  2013 Florida Art Education , state award, Friend of Art Education; judge, Floral City Strawberry Festival 2009-14.

 PERSONAL:

Birthplace:  Green Cove Springs, Fl.; resident of Citrus County for 45 years; Married to Dr. David W. Powers, Pediatrician; Children—three grown children (all graduates of Citrus County schools and Florida colleges and Fl. graduate schools.) Two granddaughters.  

Hobbies:  Water sports, writing, nature trail walking, reading and seeing mystery performances.

ISSUES: Continue to increase mental health providers in the schools and expand partnerships with the community providers. Maintain and expand safe schools initiatives. Explore and appreciate the history, culture and achievements of Citrus County, Florida and the nation. Study and appreciate America’s founding documents. Do additional projects with our veterans. Grow and strengthen programs that enable Citrus students to be competitive in the nation and the world. Support strengthening the skills of students who need special assistance. Support advanced learning for high achievers. Support teacher education and in-service programs that enhance delivery and knowledge.  Support the technical advances in educational delivery. Partner the schools and community for interaction, understanding and success. Support technical and occupational credentialing.  Effectively utilize the talent, training and expertise of educators parents and community volunteers. Listen and be available to parents, students and community members.

As a re-elected school board member, I shall continue to work consistently to address the concerns of the citizens of Citrus County.