Meet the candidate: Place 5 race, Jacksonville ISD

JACKSONVILLE – This year’s school board election in Jacksonville has only one contested race, that for the Place 5 seat, which has drawn Loretta Doty and incumbent Blake Stephens as candidates for a three-year term. A winner of the race will be declared May 1, Election Day.

Loretta Doty

I am the Administrative/Children’s Pastor at Kingdom Christian Center (KCC). My husband, Charlvin Doty is the Lead Pastor of KCC. We have two children, Tiffani (Baylor University, BBA) and Torre (University of Arkansas Monticello, BBA).

I was raised and educated in Jacksonville. I completed an associate degree at Lon Morris College. I attended the University of Texas at Tyler on a full academic scholarship graduating with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree. I am also certified as a mediator by the University of Texas School of Law.
I passionately believe that we are all called to use our gifts and abilities to serve others. The most important place to serve is in our community. I have volunteered in my community by serving on city boards, mentoring at-risk students, proctoring college entrance exams and as a Girl Scouts leader.

I decided to run for the school board position because I recognize the importance of education system in the community. I believe that I bring a unique perspective and insight gained through 30 years of public sector employment. Prior to retirement, I was the Human Resources Director for Stephen F. Austin State University and the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission.
As a public sector employee, I worked for the good of the public by strategically managing public resources. I would continue to do so on the board.

My experience includes:
• Developing and managing budgets derived from public funds.

• Presenting information in forums to include community and board meetings, council meetings and legislative hearings.

• Researching, writing, and approving policy.
• Leading nation-wide employment searches for executive positions.

My initial goal would be hiring a qualified superintendent who strives toward reaching higher district accountability ratings that support Jacksonville’s economic growth and to advocate for the interests of the Jacksonville community.

No information was provided for candidate Blake Stephens.

The polling site for this year’s school board election is at Jacksonville City Hall, 315 S. Ragsdale St., with early voting slated from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays , and May 1 Election Day polling set from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.