The candidate vows to prioritze fiscal responsibility and educational excellence
By CAMDEN SMIT
Candidate
As a proud resident of Wakulla County for over a decade, I am deeply invested in the future of our community and its schools.
My name is Camden Smit, and I am honored to announce my candidacy for Wakulla County School Board, District 4.
My husband, Chad, introduced me to Wakulla County, his hometown, when we met at the University of Florida. I fell in love with this county and the people. Wakulla isn’t just where I live – it’s the place where my husband and I call home. We are thrilled that we get to raise our boys, CJ, 6 years old, and Gray, 4, here where they will learn, grow, and become the best versions of themselves.
My journey into education began after graduation from the University of Florida with a degree in Broadcast Journalism. Inspired by a passion for learning and a desire to make a difference, I embarked on a career in education. Starting as a paraprofessional and substitute teacher, I gained valuable insights into the workings of our public school system, spanning various counties across Florida.
With each role, I honed my skills in educational strategies and gained a deep appreciation for the challenges and opportunities within our schools. My experience led me to pursue a teaching certificate and a Master’s in Educational Leadership. I have been a Kindergarten Teacher, a 5th Grade Teacher, and an Associate Dean of Students (administrative role).
Driven by a commitment to continuous improvement, I am currently pursuing a Doctoral Degree in Educational Leadership and Technology. Alongside my studies, I work with the External Affairs Department at Florida Virtual School, where I collaborate with legislators and advocate for policies that benefit students and educators across the U.S.
Recently our legislative session was adjourned where an agreement was reached on a $117.46 billion dollar spending plan for education. Within this agreement, $28.4 billion was allocated for PreK-12 schools, which is a $1.8 billion increase from last year’s budget. Pertaining specifically to teacher salaries, $200 million of the funds were earmarked for that. If elected as a school board member, I will strive to ensure that Wakulla County School District’s allocation is properly expended to our teachers.
Our Florida Legislature has made many changes to Florida’s public school system in the past few years as well as this past session. The Florida Legislature has passed the largest public K-12 deregulation bill that puts many education laws that were at the state level back into the hands of the school districts. Wakulla will have the opportunity to embrace these changes for the betterment of our students and families.
If elected, I will prioritize transparency, fiscal responsibility, and educational excellence. I will advocate for fair compensation and benefits for all district employees and ensure that our budgetary decisions reflect the needs of our students, faculty, and staff.
Most importantly, I will be a voice for our community – listening to parents, students, and educators – and working tirelessly to address their concerns and implement effective solutions.
With your support, we can ensure that Wakulla County Schools provide the highest quality education for every child. Together, let’s build a brighter future for our community. Vote Camden Smit for Wakulla County School Board, District 4, on August 20, 2024.
