The Nassau County school board member for District 4, Cynthia Grooms, is seeking re-election, facing Kristi Simpkins.
News4Jax sent a questionnaire to each candidate asking about their background and their views on several issues. Scroll down to read the responses of those seeking your vote -- in their own words.
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Note: Responses are sorted alphabetically and are presented exactly as submitted, with no editing by News4Jax staff.
| CANDIDATES |
Cynthia Grooms
Occupation: Special Education Teacher
Age: One daughter, two grandchildren
Family: 60
Education: Doctorate Degree in Educational Leadership 6/2005 Nova Southeastern University
Master’s Degree in Special Education 8/2002 Nova Southeastern University
Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education 4/2002 Nova Southeastern University
Political experience: ‘Current Nassau County School Board Member District 4
School Board Chair 2023-Current
What do you see as the top three issues in this race, and how do you plan to address them?
1. Academic Achievement and Student Success: One of the foremost concerns in our district is ensuring that all students achieve their full potential. To address this, I plan to:
continue to ensure that our students are well-prepared for the job market by expanding Career and Technical (CTE) programs that provide students with hands-on experience and skills in various trades and professions.
2. Addressing Workforce Shortages: Our district faces challenges in hiring and retaining qualified staff, particularly in specialized fields. To improve this, we must offer Competitive Salaries and Benefits along with creating a teaching and learning environment that supports our teachers and staff. I will continue to advocate for better compensation packages to attract and retain top talent in teaching and support staff roles.
3. Ensuring Fiscal Responsibility: Managing the school board budget responsibly is crucial for maximizing the impact of our financial resources. To achieve this, I will:
Prioritize Transparency by maintaining open and transparent communication regarding budget decisions, ensuring that stakeholders understand how funds are allocated and spent.
How can you help voters in a way that others running for this office cannot?
Proven Track Record: Unlike some candidates who may be new to the role, I bring a proven track record of success and tangible achievements during my tenure on the school board. This experience enables me to:
1. I can continue and expand upon successful programs and initiatives that I have already helped implement.
2. My experience has equipped me with the skills to navigate complex challenges and make informed decisions that benefit our schools.
3. I am dedicated to maintaining a high level of transparency and accountability in all my actions and decisions. I will involve community members in the decision-making process, ensuring that their voices are heard and considered.
What would you hope to be remembered for accomplishing after serving in this office?
As a school board member, I hope to be remembered for:
1. Championing Student Success: I want to be seen as someone who consistently prioritized the needs and achievements of students, advocating for programs and initiatives that helped them excel academically and personally.
2. Fostering Inclusivity and Equity: I am to be recognized for my efforts in promoting an inclusive and equitable educational environment, ensuring that all students regardless of their background, had the support and opportunities they needed to succeed.
3. Ensuring Responsible Stewardship: I aspire to be recognized for my commitment to responsible fiscal management, using resources efficiently and transparently to maximize the impact on student learning and school improvement.
Campaign website: httpscindygroomsfornassaucountyschoolboard.com
Campaign social media: Facebook
Kristi Simpkins
Occupation: Principal (Folkston Elementary School) Retired Nassau County School System (Executive Director of Curriculum and Instruction)
Age: 55
Family: Married to my husband of 30 years (Bobby). We have three beautiful children Haley (27) Hannah (25) Robert (24)
Education: Jacksonville University- Bachelors (Elementary Education)
University of North Florida - Masters of Education (Administration and Supervision)
Political experience: None
What do you see as the top three issues in this race, and how do you plan to address them?
1. **Fiscal and Instructional Transparency**
The district has a perceived lack of transparency. My goal is to prioritize and ensure fiscal and instructional responsibility and transparency by managing resources efficiently and maintaining open communication about financial and educational decisions with all stakeholders.
2. **Campus Safety and Security**
I aim to ensure campus safety and security by continuing to enhance and refine advanced measures and protocols to protect students and staff while maintaining a welcoming campus environment. This includes the ongoing implementation of balanced security measures such as controlled access and surveillance systems. Through continuous training programs, students and staff will be regularly educated on recognizing and reporting potential threats. Furthermore, I will strengthen our collaboration with law enforcement agencies to conduct joint drills and comprehensive security assessments, ensuring that we are always prepared to address any potential risks and maintain a safe learning environment.
3. **Improving Retention of Teachers and Staff**
I would address this with several strategies. First, competitive compensation packages should be offered to attract and retain talented educators, including salary increases and benefits that recognize experience and performance. Second, creating a supportive work environment with opportunities for professional development, mentorship programs, and collaborative planning enhances job satisfaction and growth. Third, ensuring manageable workloads to reduce burnout and stress. Lastly, fostering a culture of respect, open communication, and appreciation for educators’ contributions cultivates a positive workplace atmosphere that encourages long-term commitment and retention.
How can you help voters in a way that others running for this office cannot?
As an educational leader with a proven track record of delivering tangible results, I bring a unique blend of collaboration and team-building skills that sets me apart from others running for this office. My experience in fostering collaborative environments has consistently led to innovative solutions and improved outcomes in education. Unlike others, I don’t just promise change—I have a history of working in the community to achieve it, ensuring that every decision is informed by collective expertise and focused on real, measurable progress for schools.
What would you hope to be remembered for accomplishing after serving in this office?
A key goal of my tenure is to help make the Nassau County Public School system the first choice for parents when it comes to educating their children.
Campaign website: https://kristisimpkinsforncsb2024.org/
Campaign social media: Facebook