With 10 days left before the August 26 Primary Election, Seminole County Board Chairman Karen Almond said she waved for five hours at residents driving by the library near her home. Why? She’s trying to get last-minute votes in the primary election. (The library was open for voters to cast their ballots early). Almond is seeking to retain her District 2 seat. She was first elected to the school board in 2010.

This interview with Almond is the second in a series of brief OCN interviews with candidates in Seminole County races. Almond is running against retired educator Gracia M. Miller. It is a non-partisan, district-wide race.  School board members are elected to four-year terms.

Trish Martin (TM): You’re in an “A” rated school district. How do you (school district/board) plan to build on that?

Karen Almond (KA): Stay focused on achievement at the schools…for schools not performing well,  we will have extra support, extra administration and one extra hour of class time. We’re out there recruiting mentors like nobody’s business.

TM:  Why you are running (again)?

KA: This is my community and I believe in giving back.  I work with the most incredible, student focused, dedicated team of professionals who are student focused.  Seminole County is a great place to live, work and raise a family.

TM: What makes you the better candidate?

KA: I am involved, informed and invested within Seminole County Public Schools and this community.  I invested my time as a Dividend Volunteer for 21+ years.  Now, as a School Board Member, I have four years of on the job, practical experience.  I serve on many boards and committees and have many strong relationships within the community that benefit our students.

TM: What do you want to do?

KA: We must continue to work hard to bridge the achievement gap and improve the graduation rate.  We must stay focused on student achievement and continue to bring in mentors and business partners to help the students in our lowest performing schools. I want to improve our communication with the public.

TM: A couple other questions about you – where you’re from, tell us about your background and family.

KA: I was born in New Jersey.  I have lived in Seminole County since 1970.  I am a proud graduate of Lyman High School, as are my children and I am married (34 years) to the best husband in the world, Randy.  We have raised three terrific young adults, Jennifer, Alex and Nicholas.

For more information on Almond and her campaign, visit her website: http://www.karenalmond.net

For more information on the August 26 Primary Election and other Seminole County races, visit the Supervisor of Elections Office website: www.voteseminole.org Remember, early voting is underway and continues until Sunday, Aug. 24. Find a list of locations and hours at the elections office website.

© Orlando Community News, 2014