Bubba Hartsell

Questionnaire from The Chamber, Leading Business in Cabarrus

Note: The responses below from the candidate have note been edited.

Please provide demographic information about yourself to help voters (age, education, current occupation, where you live).

41 years old, Northwest Cabarrus High School, RCCC, owner and operator of a Real Estate Firm. I live in Mount Pleasant.

Why are you running for this role and why should voters pick you? Please share any experience in an elected role that would be relevant to voters.

I worked in public education for over 12 years, I had the opportunity to work in maintenance, then as an Instructional Assistant, Head Football and Wrestling Coach, Exceptional Children's Teacher, Behavior Support Specialist, Youth Education Assistant Team Leader Cadre with the North Carolina National Guard.

Tell us about 2-3 professional accomplishments you have achieved in your work experience (not limited to public service) that give voters a sense of your leadership style or skills.

I served on the Cabarrus County Schools Community Engagement Committee. I am the immediate past chairman of the Cabarrus County Young Republicans. I serve on the Cabarrus GOP executive committee. I was a 2025 nominee for "Man of the year" by the NC federation of Young Republicans.

What is one thing you would like to accomplish in the first six months if elected?

We need to improve overall safety and staff retention as well as better support for our Exceptional Children's program.

The first order of business is to keep boys out of girls bathrooms and locker rooms. Students should be using the bathroom that matches their biological sex.

This is common sense.

Public schools play a critical role in preparing students for both higher education and the workforce. How should the school system balance academic achievement, student growth, and Career & Technical Education to meet the needs of students and employers?

We have to continue to offer more CTE programs and ensure students have basic skills upon graduation.

School facilities and capital planning directly affect learning environments and community growth. How would you approach long-term facilities planning to ensure schools keep pace with enrollment and workforce demands?

It is important to properly maintain facilities with routine maintenance. We need to do a better job planning ahead and budgeting better.

Attracting and retaining high-quality teachers remains a challenge statewide. What strategies should be prioritized to build a stable, effective educator workforce in Cabarrus County?

I am proposing a year's of service incentive based supplement. I also would like to see some type of supplemental yearly pay for our support staff. We have to be innovative if we want the best educators.

Beyond standardized test scores, what measures do you believe best reflect school performance and student preparedness for future success?

We have to look at behaviors and extra curricular programs and fully support them. We also have to look at teacher satisfaction.

Strong partnerships with local governments, businesses, and community organizations can enhance educational outcomes. How would you support collaboration to strengthen opportunities for students and families?

I am a huge supporter of community engagement. Community support can enhance the learning experience.