Pam Escobar

Questionnaire from The Chamber, Leading Business in Cabarrus

Note: The following responses from the candidate have not been edited.

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

49, Bachelors of Arts in Political Science and Latin American Studies from Tufts University, Masters of Science in Broadcast Journalism from Syracuse University, Lead Communications Specialist, Concord, NC

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 ran the first time in 2022. At the time, the school board did not have a true grasp about what was happening in our schools. It was clear watching and attending their meetings politics was their focus, not what is best for kids. I value education. It's why we moved to Cabarrus County, for our two daughters to attend quality public schools. I didn't trust the people at the time. I am now in my fourth year serving on the Board of Education. I am the only incumbent seeking re-election. And I'm the only current parent serving on the school board. During my service, I have advocated for all students, shown my gratitude to our talented staff and spoken up when needed.

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 voted for the construction of 5 schools because the infrastructure was needed and unsafe. 3 ribbon cuttings occurred this August. We are in the process of building a new elementary school and a replacement high school.

I advocated and supported a reading curriculum that I believe has been instrumental in the growing success of our students and seen in their proficiency and growth scores.

My background as award-winning journalist/communications professional has made me a good listener and to ask follow up questions. I do that regularly as a school board member. I do my homework and have been successful in advocating for our students.

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

Now that we have seen the success of our reading curriculum. I will continue to advocate for a math curriculum. That means advocating on the board, and to the county commission. We asked for it during this last budget request and will need to ask again.

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?

All students should have a choice when deciding what path to chose. And that choice should be informed and based on exposure from a young age. All students in Cabarrus County schools should graduate equipped to enter the military, college or a career. CCS has a strong relationship with employers and should continue to build on what we offer students.

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?

We are required by law to provide a facilities survey to the state every five years. In it we audit what we have and what needs to be rehabbed or replaced. As our enrollment increases the demand on our facilities increase. That is why we have requested capital funding. We can continue to evaluate those needs and discuss what is required for our students to be trained in the latest careers.

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?

We rely on the excellent teachers in CCS to train and retain our new teachers. As teachers retire, its important that our new teachers receive support and instruction in those first three years. Our HR department, has been deliberate in how they use professional development and resources. Salaries are decided at the state level and the county provides a supplement, but when neighboring school districts offer higher supplements--CCS has to stand out beyond wages. That is where culture and support come in. As a school board member, it is my job to advocate for excellent working conditions.

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

Do students feel like they belong in school? If they have a trusted adult at school, they are more likely to succeed. Our schools measure students sense of belonging and many schools make it a goal to continually improve that rating.

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?

Cabarrus County Schools' data shows we had a record setting year in growth and proficiency scores. That success is a community win. We are the 2nd largest employer in the County and we work closely with County government, local businesses from the Chamber and with community organizations like rotaries, the Cabarrus Arts Council, the Cabarrus Health Alliance and more. Education is the foundation of our community. When our students, staff and families thrive and succeed that directly benefits everyone in our community. I would love for us to collaborate even more.