It is an understatement to say that the Coronavirus pandemic has caused us to change many aspects of our daily lives.  These changes are clearly seen in our school systems locally and nationally. Because schools in North Carolina have been closed since early March, parents and other family members have become teachers without the benefit of formal training. Despite the hardships brought about by the physical closings of school so early, the Coronavirus has reminded us that education matters and it starts in the home, not the school system.

Parents may forget how instrumental they are in their children’s education.  I remember as a child seeing my father sitting at the kitchen table reading the newspaper to stay informed about local, national, and international events. He and my mother would often discuss the articles they read.  Our house was always filled with books including encyclopedias, a thesaurus, and a dictionary.  I recall the excitement of bookfairs in elementary school.  Despite not having a lot of money, my parents made sure we were able to buy a few books.  Saturdays were the best because we had our own library cards and would spend the afternoon finding and reading books.  My parents encouraged us to learn and to excel at learning.  They reminded us that we were smart and could not be held back by race or sex.  Although we played sports, our sports performances were never more important than our academics. 

The expectation and encouragement from my parents propelled me to attend the College of William and Mary and UNC School of Law.  As a licensed attorney, I am required to take continuing legal education classes yearly.  Learning should continually be a part of our lives. Parents/caretakers have an opportunity to make sure their children have a great foundation upon which to build.  Because of my foundation, I am running to be the next district court judge for Cleveland and Lincoln counties in the November 2020 election.  I agree with Marian Wright Edelman that “Education is for improving the lives of others and for leaving your community and world better than you found it.”  With so many issues we are facing in the world, parents/caretakers’ roles in the education of their children is an investment for our community and the world.  I encourage parents not to be weary in well doing because in due season you shall reap if you faint not.  Galatians 6:9. Education matters and your role in the education of your child is essential for the success of our community and world.

Attorney Angela Woods