School Board members with the finalists.

The Cannon County Board Of Education held a Meet The Candidates for Cannon County Director Of Schools Thursday evening at the Woodbury Grammar School. The three final candidates for the position are, Charles Edmonds former Franklin County School Director, Dan Hampton, Current director of High Schools of Williamson County and Barbara Parker former Cannon County School Director now serving as Regional Coordinator over 53 school systems in the No Child Left Behind Program.

Each candidate was given a 15-20 minute window to introduce themselves to the audience.
Barbara Parker was the first to give her introduction. She talked about her background, growing up and still residing in Cannon County. She feels she brings experience to the School Director if appointed. She also feels that she brings character to the School Director position. Ms Parker also discussed her familiarity of the school system of Cannon County and her professional referral base as a result of her position with the State.

Charles Edmonds spoke next. He reviewed his background in education, military and school law. Mr. Edmonds mentioned that his biggest strength is his ability to communicate with people. He also placed an emphasis on work relationships and coming to agreement with Cannon County educators and school board about the vision everyone has for education in the county.

Dan Hampton concluded the evening. He talked about his background being principal of not only several high schools but also a couple of alternative schools as well. He stated that what people have to realize is that the students are the most important people in the education process. He emphasized his ability to be a leader and placed importance on his people skills.

After each candidate spoke, the three went and answered questions from the audience during the reception.

Each candidate now will be given their final interview of the process. The interviews will begin on July 6th starting with Charles Edmonds. July 7th Barbara Parker will undergo her final interview and July 8th will be Dan Hampton's final opportunity to interview for the position. July 9th at the regular board of education meeting the board will then select the Director Of Schools.