Rosie Graham has announced her candidacy for the two-year unexpired term on the Tullahoma City School Board in the March 5 primary. Her announcement is as follows:

“I am Rosie Graham, and I am seeking election to the two year unexpired term on the Tullahoma City School Board:

“I am running because:

I am passionate about education and the role it plays in improving people’s lives

I believe that schools have an enormous impact on the communities they serve.  Strong schools build strong communities.  When we moved here some 48 years ago – we were told: “you want to live in Tullahoma because the schools are the best in this area.” We did just that and raised our two children in this school system which proved to be a rich environment their growth and stability in life. 

“My second reason for running:

I believe that I have a responsibility as a citizen to contribute to my community.

My strong commitment to education, my skills and experience in the workforce, and my years of community involvement provide me with unique qualifications and perspectives to offer as a school board member.  These include:

• Former school board member.  

I served for 12 years on the Tullahoma City School Board from 1998 – 2010.  As a board member and 2 years chairman of the board, I come with a comprehensive understanding of the tremendous responsibilities involved in being a school board member.

• Educator

I have taught for 40 years as an Associate Professor in Computer Science and Mathematics at Motlow College.  From this, I bring to the board, not only my experience as an educator but also the unique perspective from those students who have come through our school system

• Computer Expertise

I have over 55 years of experience as a computer programmer/analyst both in the workforce (at IBM with the Space Program, at AEDC in engine testing) and as an college educator.  From my professional experience, I have extensive computer knowledge to share with the school system.

•  Arts Advocacy

I have a long history of participation in the Preforming Arts in the area – in theaters and in the schools.  My advocacy for the Arts provides an understanding of how these non-core courses add to the curriculum in educating our children.

• Community Involvement. 

I have also served my community through my church, in social and philanthropic groups, in youth programs, and in volunteer service.  From these associations, I bring to the board, the voices of the many people I know and with whom I have served through the years. 

“The Tullahoma City School System has long been a drawing card to this community because of its vision for excellence in education.   I would welcome the opportunity to add my voice and experience to this board as it works through today’s challenges in education.   If elected, I will work tirelessly as a team member on the board to listen to ideas, to learn from facts and to lead with conviction as we seek to provide the best education for ALL of the students in Tullahoma.”