For the first time in more than four decades, voters in St. Charles Parish School Board District 5 will elect a new representative.
Republican Tommy Scott and Democrat Deborah Smith are competing in the Nov. 3 election to replace longtime board member John L. Smith, who has served since 1983. Both candidates point to financial accountability, student success and community involvement as priorities, while offering different approaches based on their experience and perspectives.
Scott, a St. Rose native and graduate of St. Charles Parish Public Schools, said his decision to run is rooted in his connection to the community.
“I’m running because St. Charles Parish invested in me, and I want to give back by helping shape the future of our schools,” Scott said.
For more than 18 years, Scott has served as executive director of the St. Charles Parish Workforce Commission, connecting local schools, technical colleges and businesses to create opportunities for students. He said mentoring students at Destrehan High School and participating in the school system’s long-range human resources planning meetings have given him insight into the district’s challenges and opportunities.
Smith, an entrepreneur and business owner with a background in insurance, said she wants to bring her experience in business planning and strategic development to the board. As the mother of three daughters who have attended St. Charles Parish public schools, including one who is currently enrolled, she said she has a personal interest in the district’s success. She is the daughter-in-law of outgoing board member John Smith and is hoping to fill his seat.
“Public education is under attack by individuals, politicians, legislatures, and special interest groups with personal and corporate interests,” Smith said. “I want to have a seat at the table, representing the views of the public, as well as parents and families with children in the school system, when decisions regarding public education are being made.”
Both candidates identified financial accountability as a priority following a recent independent review of the district’s finances.
Scott said the review identified concerns involving financial reporting, revenue projections and oversight. Drawing on his experience in strategic planning, he said he would focus on accountability and responsible use of taxpayer dollars.
“As a board member, I would insist on clear financial reporting, stronger internal controls, independent oversight and open communication with the public,” Scott said. “I will work to ensure decisions are made with accurate information and responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars.”
Smith said the review indicated that the crisis was primarily caused by oversight problems within a technological environment. She said she would work with the superintendent and school board to ensure employees are trained and equipped with technology to monitor financial operations.
Smith also said she would help develop policies and procedures to improve financial reporting and ensure special reports are provided regularly and consistently.
On teacher recruitment and retention, Smith proposed building stronger relationships with universities and teacher preparation programs while supporting competitive salaries, benefits and employee recognition programs. She also favors creating opportunities for high school students interested in becoming teachers, potentially helping develop a future workforce for the district.
Scott also wants to improve teacher recruitment and retention, saying schools must remain competitive in pay and benefits, provide strong mentorship for new teachers and ensure educators have the resources they need to succeed. He also wants to expand career and technical education by strengthening partnerships with local businesses and industries.
“Most importantly, teachers deserve a voice in decisions that affect their classrooms and students,” Scott said.
On school safety, Smith emphasized prevention and early intervention. She supports regular meetings among school behavioral intervention teams to identify concerning behavior, assess risks and coordinate responses. She also wants to strengthen partnerships with community agencies and mental health professionals to help students and families access services.
“My approach is to be proactive rather than reactive by ensuring that schools have access to ongoing staff training, appropriate resources and effective safety procedures,” Smith said.
Scott supports continued investment in school security, emergency preparedness and partnerships with law enforcement, along with counseling and mental health resources for students.
Both candidates said community members should have opportunities to participate in decisions. Scott said he would remain accessible to families through school events, public meetings and other opportunities for feedback.
“Parents deserve a seat at the table,” Scott said. “Good decisions are made when parents, educators and community members are part of the conversation.”
Smith said she would encourage public participation by attending parent-teacher organization meetings, hosting town halls and making herself available through social media.
Early voting began Tuesday, Oct. 20, and continues through Tuesday, Oct. 27, excluding Sunday, Oct. 25. Polls will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the St. Charles Parish Courthouse in Hahnville and the Allen Armory building in New Sarpy.
Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 3. Voters can find their polling places and view sample ballots at GeauxVote.com.
