Candidate: Cara Marie Reynolds

Re-Elect Cara Reynolds
Charlotte County School Board, District 1
Proven Leadership. Real Results. Strong Schools.

I’m Cara Reynolds, a former teacher, small business owner, mom of three boys in our public schools, and your current District 1 school board member. Over the past several years, I’ve kept my promise to work hard, listen closely, and lead with students always at the focus. We have made meaningful improvements in academics, school safety, transparency, and opportunity, all while staying true to the values that matter most to this community.

Focused on Academic Excellence

• 2024: Highest number of “A” rated schools since 2012
• Only 0.25% away from becoming an “A” district
• Historic high school graduation rate: 90.9% (up from 87.6% in 2018)
• Expanded AICE Cambridge and career certification pathways
• No D or F schools in the district
• Two-time winner of Cambridge International’s Small District of the Year
• Launched summer enrichment programs for all grade levels

Preparing Students for Real-World Success

• Secured $1.75 million in state funding for a regional Advanced Manufacturing Training Center
• State funding secured for the aviation hangar underway at Charlotte High
• New career & technical magnet programs in all three high schools
• Launched the 3 E’s Pathway: students choose Employment, Enlistment, or Enrollment and build toward their goal throughout high school

Supporting Teachers & Staff

• Starting teacher pay increased from $38,232 (2018) to $58,154 (2025)
• Salary growth for all positions across the district

 Promoting Transparency & Engagement

• All school board meetings are now live-streamed
• District-wide use of surveys and parent feedback tools
• Improved two-way communication with families and community partners

Why I’m Running for My Final Term

Charlotte County Public Schools are on the right track, and I’m running for my final term on the School Board to continue that progress, ensure stability, and keep students at the center of every decision.

As a former middle school teacher, local business owner, and mother to three boys in our public schools, I understand the real-world challenges families face. I first stepped into public service to ensure our schools reflected the values of this community: academic excellence, transparency, and safe learning environments.

Every day, I’m in conversations with parents and community members, whether it’s at the grocery store, on the sidelines of a baseball or basketball game, or through calls and emails. I listen to what matters most to our families and work to reflect those values in the decisions I make.

Over the past six years, I’ve worked hard to uphold those values while serving as both Board Chair and Vice Chair. We have seen major milestones from academic gains and workforce investments to navigating hurricanes and hiring a new superintendent.

This job isn’t about politics for me, it’s about people. It’s about doing what’s right for our children and looking to the future of public education in Charlotte County. Together, we’ve built a strong foundation. Let’s keep going.

Vote Cara Reynolds for Charlotte County School Board, District 1
Experience. Enthusiasm. Excellence.