THIS STORY IS PRESENTED IN PART BY DRAKE DENTISTRY

Linda Cobb, the District 5 incumbent candidate for Vance County Schools Board of Education, appeared on WIZS Town Talk Thursday at 11 a.m.

Cobb faces challenger Clementine Hunter in the March 3, 2020 primary. The only other school board position that faces opposition is the District 3 seat, where incumbent Dorothy Gooche faces challenger Sean A. Alston, Sr.

Cobb was appointed to the Board in September after Hunter, who was elected to the school board in 2016, resigned from the District 5 position. Cobb was also unanimously voted in as Vice-Chair of the Board for the 2020 year.

In discussing the unique situation, Cobb said she was unaware of the circumstances surrounding Hunter’s resignation and decision to run in the 2020 election. “She has every right to file and run, as do I,” Cobb said. “Both of us just have to do our best and let the citizens of Vance County make the appointment.”

An educator at both the community and four-year college level for 20 years, and currently the business officer with the Vance County Department of Social Services, Cobb said the first five months in her appointed position have been a “humbling learning experience.”

Cobb said she is excited to see positive growth, pointing to the students that have been recognized in the monthly Student Spotlight program and higher VCS graduation rates as examples of the school system’s achievements.

Discussing the way the Board works together as a team, a sentiment echoed by other recently interviewed school board candidates, Cobb said her time serving as the District 5 representative has left her eager to continue in her role.

“If I’m fortunate enough to be elected for the next term, my main goal is to work along with the Board because we are a team and we have to continue to work together as a team for the better of Vance County’s schools.”

Cobb also had high praise for VCS Superintendent Dr. Anthony Jackson. “He is a great leader that’s leading the school system to a different level. The Board works very well with Dr. Jackson.”

With her years in education, the assistance she provides children and families at DSS and her time on the Board, Cobb said she brings much experience and perspective to her role. “I’m here for the students and I will do what I can with my one vote to make Vance County a better place for our kids.”

The deadline to register to vote in the primary election is Friday, February 7. Early voting begins Thursday, February 13.

To hear the interview with Cobb in its entirety, go to WIZS.com and click on Town Talk. Cobb’s segment begins at the 17:40 mark.

(This is not a paid political advertisement. Challenger Clementine Hunter will be offered an interview of equal time with WIZS.)