Greenville, South Carolina: School Board Elections Ignite Critical Discussions on Safety, Funding, and Equity

Greenville, South Carolina: School Board Elections Fuel Community Conversation

On November 5, voters in South Carolina took to the polls to cast their ballots for local school boards. Key topics on the ballot included school safety, funding, and diversity initiatives. Among the prominent contests were the elections for the Greenville County School Board of Trustees, specifically in districts known as Areas 19, 21, 25, and 27.

In Area 19, a significant shift was underway as incumbent Debbie Bush did not seek re-election, paving the way for a new council member. With all precincts reporting, Scott Cline emerged as the leader of the race, securing 36% of the vote. Amanda Stone followed closely with 30%, and Dan Healey captured 17%. Cline, a graduate of Greenville High and Anderson University, emphasized parental involvement and teacher support as core components of his campaign, hoping to enhance academic excellence and responsible budget management.

In Area 21, incumbent Angie Mosley is also on track for re-election, having received 59% of the votes. Her opponent, Steve Whaley, garnered 39%. Mosley, who has served since 2020, emphasized student-centered policies and plans to address literacy gaps and safety through measures like weapons detection systems and a focus on retaining qualified teachers.

Meanwhile, in Area 25, incumbent Michelle Goodwin-Calwile is leading with 51% of the vote against challengers Greg Cantrell with 26% and Jack Logan at 20%. Goodwin-Calwile, a Furman University graduate, aims to promote justice and equity for all students while pushing for more funding to enhance school safety and improve job training programs for graduates

The results in Area 27 show incumbent Sarah Dulin with a commanding lead at 55% against challenger Missey Marsh, who received 43%. Since joining the school board in 2020, Dulin has focused on student safety and supporting staff, planning to push for higher teacher salaries and increased resources for students. She is also committed to ensuring that middle and high schools have adequate School Resource Officers (SROs) to enhance safety.

The election comes at a time when educational institutions are under pressure to provide safe and inclusive learning environments while managing budgets effectively. Voters expressed their priorities, and the chosen candidates will face the challenge of addressing them as they step into office.

Overall, these elections reflect the community’s emphasis on improving educational outcomes, ensuring safety, and promoting equity within Greenville County schools. The newly elected members will have critical roles in shaping policies that align with these priorities over the coming years.