There are three candidates running for Educational District 3 for the Lincoln County School Board. The district, which covers Bogue Chitto, is holding a special election because Ricky Welch, the previous board member, resigned on Sept. 10, 2018. Brian Magee was appointed to fill his seat until the special election.

School board members serve for six-year terms and attend at least one regular meeting a month. They receive $2,400 annually in compensation.

Perry S. Brown

Perry S. Brown, owner of Brown Forestry Service, has had two children attend Bogue Chitto Attendance Center. During that time, he was involved with the booster program and the parent-teacher association, where he helped with fundraising for several building projects and renovations.

Now, Brown said he has several grandchildren that will be attending Bogue Chitto soon, and he wants to be there for them and the other students.

“I just want to be there to look out for this area,” he said. “I think I can do that.”

Brown said he wants to do whatever he can to improve test scores for the district’s school.

“I’m just wanting to keep the schools progressing as they are,” he said. “I feel like I have some unique perspectives.”

Barbara F. Buie

Barbara F. Buie has over 30 years of education experience, from pre-K up through higher education. She said she would like to bring people closer together in the school system regardless of age, race or gender.

“My primary concern is academics, so that our kids can compete with anybody else in this nation,” she said.

Buie said she would like to see languages and computer classes introduced earlier, to keep up with a changing society.

“I would also like to have more realistic opportunities for students that are receiving special services,” she said. “I would like that no child is left behind — that we do anything we can do to keep them integrated in our regular population.”

Brian Magee

Brian D. Magee is a Navy veteran and technology professional. Magee has been serving as Educational District 3 board member since his appointment following Welch’s departure. Magee is also notable for being the first black representative to serve on the board.

Magee said that during his time on the board, he has formed a working relationship with other board members that he would like to keep going.

“I appreciate the year I’ve been there,” he said. “I’ve learned a lot and I feel like there’s still more. I think we’re all on the same page.”

Magee said he wants to continue working with the board to improve vocational education for students.