Jackson School Board: Bruce Thomas

Name: Bruce Thomas

Age: 63

Place of birth: Hopkinsville Ky

Spouse, children's names:

Cheryl, spouse; Andlle Naeter, Julie Findlay, daughters. John Litzelfelner,Clint Thomas, sons. Eight grandchildren.

Occupation: Retired Teacher, small business owner.

Employer: Self

Businesses owned, all or part: Coach T 's lawn service

Previous offices held or sought: Jackson School Board 6 years.

What is the most important issue facing the Jackson Public Schools and what can be done about it?

Keeping up with technology, maintaining the quality of our staff. Teacher moral is extremely important ! We also need a cohesive school board, working for the common good of the district. We need to be conservative with our budget. We need to pay our staff well, and be open to input from our teachers and staff. Our school board needs to work together for the common good of the district .

What in your background or education makes you qualified for this office?

I was a coach and teacher at Jackson for 26 years. I've worked hard to educate myself as a board member. I have a master board member certificate in school law and finance. I had a love for my job as a teacher, and cared very much about the kids I had in school. I have a deep pride in our school, and it's reputation.

Where do you stand on the issue of Common Core standards?

We're going to have to do common core by law, I think we need to give our teachers some latitude in presentation of material, and colaberate strongly so we can use what is most successful . Presently our school serves with distinction academically in our state. I believe we have success because of our teachers, and administrators.

Do you think the Jackson School District is a good place for teachers to work? Why or why not?

I think Jackson schools are a good place to work. We have decent wages, in most cases nice facilities. I do want us to make our staff feel more appreciated. I will work to increase, pay and help to shore up retirement benefits.