Originally published in the “Politics is Power Blog”
Joyce M. Rose-Harris is Assistant Editor for Politics is Power Blog
On Monday, November 2, 2009, I was invited to sit and listen in with South Carolina gubernatorial candidate Jim Rex during the beginning of a listening tour around South Carolina officially titled the “Turnaround Tour”. The name comes from the desire of Rex to turnaround South Carolina with regard to its status as a less than progressive state. The following are the highlights and main points from the conversation with the candidate as discussed in the home of the Turner family. Take note that this blog is to provide information and does not in anyway endorse a particular candidate.
The conversation that occurred with the home of the Turner family centered on the discussion about the image, the economic situation, and the educational system in South Carolina . These topics were reiterated, when asked, “what are some of the main issues he wants to deal with as governor?” Rex indicated that he defines them as the three E’s; which are Education, Economic Revitalization, and Environmental Initiative. Below are details from our conversation.
EDUCATION
Being that Jim Rex is the current South Carolina Superintendent of Education his stance and ideas on what he wants to do as governor with regard to education are firm and clear. During the conversation, Rex pointed out that even though South Carolina schools are, ranked 47th in the nation. However, South Carolina is noted as most improved with regard to standardized test scores across the nation. Development of choice driven public schools is one of the top priorities that Rex would like to pursue as governor. Giving parents a choice between Montessori, magnet, art, and vocational curriculums in addition to traditional curriculums will provide more choices. To ensure that there are more teachers for these varied and evolving programs the ability to add a certification to their degree; for example, a certification in Montessori method would be made available. It was advised that there are currently 189 Montessori classrooms in South Carolina ; however, the demand is increasing and long waiting lists exist for Montessori based schools. Rex also indicated programs that focus on natural resources help to bring more environmental based programming to the school system. Programs such as firearm awareness and safety allow for participation of individuals who may have physical disabilities; in addition help to build self-esteem. Ultimately, it was stated that public schools need to respond to the needs of the community as well as reduce the drop out rate.
ECONOMIC REVITALIZATION
Rex indicated that in order for the state to emerge from the current condition part of the process will require economic revitalization through innovation and sustainability. This includes development and education of the unemployed as well as employed workforce. It is important to use our Technical College system, which is one of the best in the country to help to educate and train the adult population for a more technology based economy. Utilization and funding of some of the best historically black colleges and universities will educate students within the state and bring students from outside of South Carolina . Development of the port cities Charleston and Georgetown will create more economic opportunity for the state and be a tool to bring more industry to South Carolina . Stemming off the idea of the tourism campaign it is Rex’s desire to utilize the concept of strategic planning to develop a marketing plan and solutions for growth.
ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVE
Included in the environmental initiative is the need for quality health care and a healthy environment for South Carolinians . We are a state with high rate of medical issues such as stroke and diabetes, so focusing on these issues will help create a healthier state. Citizens of South Carolina are warm and over all friendly people and this needs to be conveyed to the remainder of the country. Ensuring that the natural resources of the state are here for generations to come a focus on the environment must be done.
In conclusion, Superintendent Rex indicated that as governor it is important to be able to multi-task issues. Focusing only on one issue at a time will not lead to the necessary progress in the economy or education that this state needs. It is Rex’s desire to utilize technology to stay informed and interact with the citizens of South Carolina . He believes it is important that elected officials not only be visible in the community during campaigns but while in office. To learn more about the campaign and the Turnaround Tour you can go to www.jimrex.com .
Tomorrow’s blog will reflect on the historic 2008 Election.