Derrick Eckroat has announced his intentions to seek the Republican nomination for Chattooga County School Board – Seat One.  The seat is currently held by Democratic incumbent Eddie Elsberry.  Elsberry has not announced intentions to run again for the seat.  Mr. Ekroat released the following statement to WZQZ News on Friday:

It is with great pleasure and excitement for me to announce my candidacy for the Chattooga County School Board. I am running for the District 1 seat.

I feel very strongly that our children are our future. I believe that with a strong foundation and a good education, our children can be the future we all are proud to have.

As parents, guardians, teachers and educational leaders, we want to provide all of the educational guidance and tools for our students to grow academically and vocationally in today’s world. We want our children to grow in knowledge and become proficient in their fields of study.

However, our children cannot achieve this alone. It is through good educators and parental support that will allow this to happen. High standards have always been the best policy for achieving the desired goal.  You cannot win the game if you don’t practice. You can’t be better today if you are not willing to learn from yesterday.

Our teachers are the back bone of the educational system.  I will work closely with our teachers and our administrative staff.  I will be an advocate for the teachers and listen to their needs. I will work hard to make sure that they receive all of the resources they need to do their job more efficiently and economically. I do not believe in wasteful spending, especially on resources that do not work, or that are too costly to maintain.

I will listen to the students and address their concerns. I will promote parental involvement. I will work in the best interest of our students. I will not agree to policies that will hinder a student’s growth and or their development. I will work hard for our students.

I make this solemn promise to you the citizens of Chattooga County. I will WORK for you. I will do this job to the best of my ability. I am not perfect and I do make mistakes.  I am willing to listen and learn, and strive be the best school board member that our students deserve.

I am asking you to place your confidence in me, and vote for Derrick Eckroat Chattooga County School Board District (1).

Thank you all for what you do. And may GOD Bless America.