City School Board

Barbara Hutchins Long

B. Hutchins Long

Republican

Tell us about your campaign.

"I’m running for my second term on the Murfreesboro City School Board. I was an educator for 31 years here in Murfreesboro at McFadden School of Excellence. For 15 years of my career, McFadden was an inner city school so I have experience with educating a very diverse population. The second half of my career was spent educating our magnet school students. Because of our diverse population in Rutherford County and City, I feel that I am equipped to help ensure that our family’s needs are met without overreaching into the family. I believe families should have the full authority over their children’s education. Our districts are a support tool for our Rutherford County and City families."

In your own words, describe the responsibilities of the office you are seeking.

The responsibilities of this office encompass setting the budget each year for the district. I help offer support for our students, teachers, support staff, Central Office and families in our schools. I ensure that our schools remain safe and well equipped to give our kids the best education possible. In addition, I make sure that our policies align with our state educational laws.

What are your priorities for this office?

In my next term, want to make sure that our district is well funded. I want to make sure our salary bases are competitive with other districts in Tennessee and across the country. My support for teachers, and staff is a priority for me. I want to work with legislators as I have in the last four years to make sure that our Tennessee kids get the opportunities to learn, grow and thrive.

Describe your qualifications for this office.

My experience in the classroom and in many leadership roles in Rutherford County and in Murfreesboro city schools is paramount to my qualification for this office. Because of my experience, I know what works, and what doesn’t work in our classrooms. As I have the last 4 years, I can speak to legislators and senators regarding laws that are about to be passed in Tennessee and what positive or negative influence that will have in the classroom.