To the editor,
On Tuesday, September 12, you will have the opportunity to elect three new school board members. This decision, I believe, is a pivot point for the future of Greene County Community School District. I would like to secure one of your votes.
My name is Catherine Carman-Wilson. I was born and raised right here in Jefferson. My family dates back to the founding of Greene County and has served it ever since. From my grandparents Bob and Adabelle who were local farmers and very active in serving the area to myself, a recent business owner. I have lived and worked here in Greene County all of my life. Never venturing too far from home. Jefferson and Greene County have my heart. For generations my family has showed we have public service as a core value. My grandfather was a POW in World War 2. My brother, Benjamin, served with the Marines in Iraq. My brother, James, and sister Amelia, are volunteers on the Jefferson fire department. As a parent and a native I feel I have a calling to serve my community on the school board.
I graduated from Jefferson-Scranton in 1995. After completing cosmetology school I married my husband, Brian Wilson. We now have three children. Caden, my oldest is a senior at GCHS. Caden is active in football, wrestling, track, baseball, and FFA. He enjoys spending most of his time hunting and fishing in the area and plans to attend Iowa Central Community College next fall and major in conservation. Sadie, our daughter, is a freshman this year. She is active in volleyball, track, and choir, but her passion is basketball. Most times you can find her underneath the hoop. Last but not least is my youngest Jace. Jace is in sixth grade. He likes football and wrestling. He also enjoys science and math. As you can tell my husband and I are very busy parents. We enjoy attending all the functions that go along with having children who are active in school.
Two years ago I became the owner of a long-time local business, The Hairem. I have worked there for 17 years. I enjoy spending my workdays with people of this area. With my job, it gives me ample opportunities to listen and hear concerns or praises about the community and school district.I believe in our schools!
I also believe in recent years the communities of Greene County have felt disconnected from the decision-making process when it comes to our children. As a school board member you understand I am elected to represent the whole community. I have listened to grievances from both parents and taxpayers and I want to make sure our schools have the resources they need to keep our district a great place to educate our kids. I have also listened to frustration by folks in the community who feel they don’t have a voice and want to ensure that our school administrators are accountable to the citizens they serve.
If elected I promise to be approachable, a good listener, and a voice for the citizens of Greene County.
So in finishing, I’m asking for your vote for in September.
Thank you – Catherine Carman Wilson, Jefferson
