Candidate Biography (submitted by candidate):

Professional Experience
Business Consultant,
Early Education Center Director,
Sales, Marketing and Finance Manager with several Fortune 500 Companies

Education: B.S. Business Administration, Winston-Salem State University

Family: Married to Ann Wherry Dunn, A daughter: Bria who is a student at Mt Tabor High School.

Community:
PTA:
North Carolina PTA Vice President Legislative Activity
Chairman: Common Core State Standard Committee
Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Council, President (2 year)
Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Council, Treasurer (4 year)
Meadowlark Elementary School, President (2 year)
North West Midget Pop Warner Football & Cheerleading
Football Commissioner (1 year)
Pfafftown Packers, President & League Representative (4 year)
Educational:
District/Regional Teaching Fellow Screening Committee (6+ years)
Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools Scholarship Com. (5+ years)
Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools Teacher of Year Com. (3 years)

Forsyth Education Partnership
Board Member (6 years)
Former President (2 years)
Forsyth County Youth Council
Board Member (4 years)

I recently attended several community meetings with different groups of citizens from all over Forsyth County regarding our current school system.  There were some common concerns which were repeated:

• Less than 75% of our students graduate in 4 years
• Roughly 750 students drop out of school yearly
• Poor students' performance on state tests
• Lack of creative programs to keep students interested in learning
• Large number of repeatedly low achieving schools
• Board members are uninterested and unresponsive to community concerns
• Budget cuts appears to be aimed at teachers and not programs or the central office staff

In addition to these concerns, there were many good ideas that were expressed. As a result, I have decided to run for the Board of Education as a voice for the community and a catalyst for change. 

Donald learned about community service from his parents who were very active in their community and schools.  He has a proven professional record of achievement and accomplishments. He has served several leadership roles with many local youth organizations.  Seeking a seat on Winston-Salem/Forsyth Board of Education provides him with an opportunity to blend his passion for education WITH youth engagement.

He will bring to the board:

• Proven Community & Business Leadership
• Vision and Direction
• A desire to improve communication between the community and the school board
• Willingness to engage all members of the community
• Plans to increase students' performance (E.O.Gs; Graduation and Dropout rates)
• Goal to enhance workplace moral and environment for employees