Candidate: Laura Dortch Edler

 “It takes all of the people involved in the life a child to give their best in doing their part in the raising of a child. This is the key to the concept of Total Education.” Author unknown My

Educational Philosophy. I believe:
? Each child is a unique individual who needs a secure, caring and safe atmosphere in which to grow emotionally, intellectually, physically and socially.
? Every child has the potential to bring something extraordinary to the world. We must be willing to help them develop their potential by believing in them as capable individuals.
? Every classroom is a unique community of learners with variable abilities and learning styles. When given the appropriate tools children will cultivate their gardens of knowledge and elevate to their individual potential.
? Teachers free to be mentors inspire students to establish and execute individual educational goals.
? Every child deserves and has the right to a just and quality education regardless of his or her life situations or circumstances.

Although, the challenges many young people face today may present obstacles, children can grow and develop successful with the help of “village people” who are willing to engage in the educational process. We must work collaboratively with parents, families, teachers and the community to form partnerships with a goal of improving educational outcomes for children. It is my passion for education and for children that I am a serious candidate for the Escambia County School Board District 3.

As a parent, student, pediatric nurse, social worker, and university educator, I possess the wisdom, experience, knowledge and skills needed to navigate through the education and socio-economic obstacles that many children face today. My experience and knowledge base will be beneficial to all stakeholders in the decision making process and the development of policies and programs in the best interest of “todays” children. We cannot continue to address the needs of these children, today as we did in years gone by! Although strides have been made, we can do better! Doing better, however requires fresh ideas and perspectives.

The 2018 election affords an exciting opportunity to bring vision, innovation, critical thinking, creativity and effective problem solving to the table. I will serve you well! I grew up in life situations and circumstances similar to those that some children face today. Yet, I have obtained the highest educational level possible because I was privileged to have caring teachers, family and neighbors who were my “village people.”

I was raised by a “wise” single woman who could not read or write, but developed partnership with educators for support. Her wisdom and fortitude created an appreciation for education that demanded that I made grades of “B” or better! The same precept I wish for all children! I have lived in District 3 at the same address most of my life.

I am a widow and the parent of seven adult children (one biological son, adopted four nieces and two nephews, youngest two with special academic and health care needs.) Since seventh grade, I have always work full time and obtained my education.

I am a Licensed Practical Nurse. I have a bachelor and master degree in social work. I have an Educational Specialist degree in Instruction and curriculum and a doctorate degree in Instruction and curriculum: Educational management.

I will serve you well! I will work diligently and courageously for the children of District 3. I will make informed decisions and only support those proposals in the best interest of children, teachers, parents and the community as a whole. It is time that we stop talking about where children come from and begin to hold serious conversations about how we can educate them to become successful in spite of the adversities in their lives!

The journey of my life speaks volumes of my commitment to education! Over the course of the next few months, I look forward to meeting with the citizens of District 3. I want to actively listen to you and learn about your educational concerns, needs and issues, so that we can begin to make a difference in the lives of our children; a trend that I plan to continue after being elected the Escambia County School Board District 3 Representative!

Thank you for taking the time and interest in my campaign. I look forward to the opportunity to serve the constituents of District 3!