Elections: Board of Education, District 2, Catherine Cooke

Name: Catherine Cooke

Town of residence: Shallotte

Political office sought: Board of Education, District 2

Political affiliation: Republican

Candidate website address: Catherine Cooke for Board of Education on Facebook

Profession: Self-employed

Education: Page High School graduate, Greensboro; St. Mary’s College, Raleigh; N.C. real estate broker.

Family information: Married to Marty Cooke for 26 years; four children: Katie, 20; MaryLou, 17; John, 13; and Annabelle, 12.

Organizations or affiliations: Past volunteer with Communities in Schools, member of Brunswick County Republican Party, member Brunswick County Republican Women, member Beach Assembly of God in Ocean Isle Beach.

Political experience: I have served on the board of education for the past four years.

Why are you running for office?

I feel I have been an effective advocate for students, parents and staff of Brunswick County Schools the past four years. I believe I have a good understanding of the policies and practices of the system and want to continue to serve in this capacity.

What do you believe are the top three issues?

 Our primary focus should be to have literate students at the primary level of third and fourth grade. Studies show if this goal is not met at this early age the student begins to fall behind and risks greater chance of dropping out of school. Secondly, we need to establish a work ethic and better life skills for our high school graduates. Although they have a diploma they also need to have the needed skills to effectively function in a job and society. Many students need an opportunity to expand their horizons and be hands-on with local businesses with job shadowing where available. This county has many resources available that we should avail ourselves of as well as take advantage of the community college and the courses they offer with the college and career-ready program.