Toshiba Rice, candidate for Wake County school board District 4, answers our questions
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Candidates for Wake County Board of Education District 4
Sean Callan, Robert Morales Vergara and Mike Williams are running against incumbent Toshiba Rice. Morales discontinued his campaign but will still appear on the ballot. District 4 covers much of Southeast Raleigh. Get to know the candidates with our 2024 NC Voter Guide.
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To help inform voters in the Nov. 5, 2024, election, this candidate questionnaire is available to be republished by local publications in North Carolina without any cost. Please consider subscribing to The News & Observer to help make this coverage possible.
Name: Toshiba Rice
District/seat: Wake County Board of Education, District 4
Political party: Democrat
Age as of Nov. 5, 2024: 50
Campaign website: toshibarice.org
Current occupation: Principal Wellbeing Consultant/Trainer
Professional experience: imWell: Principal Well-being Trainer and Consultant; Track My Steps: Executive Director; Easter Seals UCP: Community Resource Trainer
Education: Technical College; Certified Mental Health First Aid Trainer; Certified Parenting Facilitator; Certified Lean Six Sigma Blackbelt
Please list any notable government or civic involvement:. Current: Raleigh/Apex NAACP, Vice-Chair Rolesville High School CTE Advisory Committee; Past: Wake Human Services Northern Regional Center CAC Member, City of Raleigh Forest Rd CAC Chair, Board Advisory Chair for WCPSS District 1, Raising Achievement Closing the Gap Committee, Parent Advisory/Community Engagement Committee, Academically and Intellectually Gift (AIG) Committee, School Improvement Team, Student Services Advisory Team, PTA Vice-President/Treasurer
What would be your top priority if elected?
Student achievement and well-being.
What specific strategies would you promote to improve academic achievement for Wake County students?
Commitment: We strive for the highest standards of academic achievement and continuous improvement for all students. Actions: Implement rigorous curricula, utilize data-driven instruction, and provide resources and support for both students and educators to excel. Outcome: High levels of student performance, critical thinking, and preparedness for future educational and career opportunities.
How should Wake County respond to the Biden administration’s new Title IX rules involving transgender students?
Wake County has proactively addressed and complied with the Biden administration’s new Title IX rules involving transgender students by ensuring that all students, regardless of gender identity, have equal access to educational opportunities. The district has updated policies to protect transgender students from discrimination, provided staff training on inclusivity, and reinforced a commitment to creating a safe and supportive learning environment for every student.
Do you think the legislature should fund about $500 million for private school vouchers through the Opportunity Scholarship program? Why or why not?
The legislature should not fund $500 million for private school vouchers through the Opportunity Scholarship program because it diverts critical resources from public schools, which serve the majority of students. Public funds should strengthen public education, ensuring equity, accountability and access for all students, rather than subsidizing private institutions that lack the same level of oversight and do not serve all communities equitably.
What is your view on installing weapons detectors at every school as a security measure?
Installing weapons detectors at every school presents major costs and isn’t always a secure solution. The financial burden of purchasing, maintaining, and staffing detectors could divert resources from essential educational needs. Additionally, detectors alone do not fully prevent violence and may create false security, as threats can arise outside of entry points. A more comprehensive approach to school safety is needed, focusing on prevention, mental health, and community engagement.
This story was originally published October 17, 2024 at 9:32 AM.
