Richards Not Seeking Re-Election
By Sherri Blevins
On Tuesday, April 16, 2019, Mark Richards, DeKalb County Board of Education member, announced he would not seek re-election to his seat on the DeKalb County Board of Education. He announced his decision in a live press conference at the Northeast Alabama Water District office on his birthday.
He prepared the following statement to be shared with the public.
“It is with a mix of emotions that I announce I will not seek re-election to serve a fourth term on the DeKalb County Board of Education. Serving as the representative for District II over the last eighteen years has been more rewarding than I could have ever imagined. I cannot put into words how humbled I have been by the support, faith, and encouragement I’ve received from everyone.
While serving, I have had the opportunity to work with exceptionally devoted teachers, support workers, administrators, and board members. I am inspired daily by their continued hard work and passion for our school system. Witnessing the success our students have achieved and being a part of the system’s growth has been the most rewarding part of it all.
I have been blessed to serve alongside an amazing Board, and I am proud of the work we have accomplished together for the betterment of the students and faculty of DeKalb County Schools. It has been our goal to keep our students, their education and their future at the forefront of each and every decision we’ve made. As I have gotten older, I have developed a greater appreciation for the time and just how quickly it passes by. Family and friends are precious to me, and I am looking forward to spending more time with them. I also want to thank them for their sacrifices and support for me all these years.
In closing, I believe that DeKalb County Schools are headed in the right direction with Dr. Jason Barnett, as Superintendent, and our current serving Board Members. Dr. Barnett’s commitment to the district and his leadership have made this decision easier for me because I know our school system is in very capable hands.
To my fellow board members, community, friends, family, and everyone who has been a part of my journey, I want to thank you for making the last eighteen years a time that I will forever cherish and be grateful for. It has truly been an honor to serve you all.”