Candidates answered questions on student achievement, teaching and learning, and state and local policies, with each explaining what sets them apart.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Parents and students packed a community forum Thursday night to hear directly from seven candidates competing for three seats on the Duval County School Board.

Voters in Districts 2, 4, and 6 will choose new board members in the Aug. 18 primary, with early voting running Aug. 7–16.

The election comes as the district faces budget pressures, school consolidation decisions, and concerns about political influence in local education.



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Candidates answered questions on student achievement, teaching and learning, and state and local policies, with each explaining what sets them apart.

In District 2, Terence Myers said his time in the classroom and across the district gives him the edge.

“I know what the parents have been asking. I’m in the community. I’m dealing with students. I’ve had the opportunity to teach adults as well as children,” Myers said.

Fellow District 2 candidate Donna Westrich shared her focus.

“I put students first, and I will always dedicate my time to making sure that students succeed,” Westrich said.

In District 4, Rhodesia Butler said her combined education and business background makes her the right fit.

“I think with the tenure of education, as well as business acumen and having large budgets, I think that it’s just a huge fit for me to be able to take a seat,” Butler said.

Dr. Gracie Bell Kearse-McCastler said she’ll bring knowledge and integrity to the role.

“I’ll use the knowledge, the skills, my determination, and my integrity to do the best job possible,” Kearse-McCastler said.

In District 6, Clarence James said he’s the one to clean up school safety.

“I am the guy that can get the job done to get the violence and put respect back into our classroom,” James said.

Robert Stafford said he challenged the district on construction costs, helping drive down the price.

“That’s what sets me apart,” Stafford said.

Michelle Petty said her ability to collaborate is her strength.

“I take pride in having a knack for being able to work with all types of people. I try to find what way works best with individual different personalities,” Petty said.

Students also spoke out about what they want from their next school board.

Co-moderator of the event and rising 12th grader at Wolfson High School, Dylan Rolle, said he’s concerned about cuts.

“A lot of cuts to public education and a lot of cuts to stuff like magnet buses that we’ve had to go against, and just I want to ensure that these board candidates know that we have concerns about these things,” Rolle said.

Saige Higgins, a recent graduate of Paxon School for Advanced Studies, said busing is critical for access.

“Bussing is very important, allowing kids to get the best education, whatever school they choose. It’s important that they’re able to get there and get there on time,” Higgins said.

Riley Higgins, a rising 9th grader at Stanton College Preparatory School, said teacher support is key.

“Teachers they do a lot for students and I feel like they just need more like time and resources to really get deep into subjects that they’re teaching,” Riley Higgins said.

For many, the event was a step in the right direction.

“We did see someone who will step out of their regular job to really try to be on the front line to advocate for students. We need community members who are passionate about making a change in the right direction,” said Carol Mannings, an attendee.

Remember, all registered voters may vote in the nonpartisan school board races regardless of party affiliation.