Bruce Hill, who has served nearly 20 years on the Lenoir County Board of Education, is running for re-election in 2024. Hill, a Lenoir County native, has spent five terms working to improve the education system, advocating for students, teachers, and staff in the community he’s called home his entire life.

Hill describes his tenure on the board as a “learning curve,” despite his deep involvement in the school system as a parent and community member. Before being elected, he had participated in school activities like PTA, field trips, and sports. However, Hill admits that serving on the board was an eye-opener, showing him the complexity of school governance. “When I was elected, I really did not know anything about the function of a school board and the responsibilities of a school board member,” Hill said. Over the past two decades, he has dedicated himself to understanding these responsibilities through professional development, completing over 2,000 hours of training with the North Carolina School Boards Association.

As a current member of the board, Hill has also served four years as vice chair and four years as chair. He believes this experience, combined with the professional relationships he has cultivated with school board members, superintendents, and legislators at various levels, positions him well to continue making impactful decisions. “The Board of Education is responsible for ensuring all students receive a high-quality education that prepares them for the future both personally and professionally,” he stated.

One of Hill’s key motivations for running again is his belief in the value of public education. “Public education is the cornerstone of our democracy and our society,” he said, stressing that it levels the playing field for individuals across all walks of life. Hill credits the local education system for providing students with career and college pathways, as well as programs like Career and Technical Education (CTE), apprenticeships, and job shadowing opportunities. He believes that these programs are essential to addressing some of Lenoir County’s most pressing issues, such as population decline, the need for a trained workforce, and the demand for higher-paying jobs.

Hill views education as a crucial element in solving these challenges. “A population requires jobs, jobs require a trained workforce, and a trained workforce requires people,” Hill explained, emphasizing that the Lenoir County Public School system plays an important role in addressing this cycle. He believes that by offering training programs in conjunction with Lenoir Community College, the county can attract companies that provide better-paying jobs, which in turn could help stabilize and grow the population.

In addition to workforce development, Hill is focused on ensuring accountability and transparency in the board’s decision-making process. According to Hill, the board works closely with the superintendent and school administration to set and assess benchmarks for student success, using metrics like end-of-grade test scores, student growth, and community feedback to gauge progress. Hill said that the board is committed to adjusting policies as needed to ensure that students continue to succeed. “If these policies are ineffective and the goals are not being met, then the board has an obligation in open session to review and revise these policies,” he stated.

Hill also underscored the importance of collaboration, both across party lines and with various stakeholders, to achieve the board’s goals. He believes that incorporating diverse viewpoints allows for better decision-making and ensures that the school system reflects the needs of the entire community. “Regardless of party background, we all have a shared commitment to the success of Lenoir County Public School students and staff,” Hill said, stressing that collaboration fosters trust and can lead to creative solutions.

In reflecting on a personal challenge that has influenced his approach to public service, Hill shared the story of undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery last summer. He described the experience as a humbling reminder of the importance of perseverance and accepting help from others. “This experience reiterated the value of accepting help from others, and I will bring this type of collaborative spirit to this office,” he said.

Hill concluded by reaffirming his dedication to Lenoir County and its education system. “I care deeply about our community,” he said, adding that his primary goal is to continue improving the quality of life for all citizens in the county through education. "I believe experience matters," Hill said, emphasizing the value of the relationships and expertise he has built over his years of service.

As Lenoir County heads into the 2024 election, Hill's track record, commitment to collaboration, and belief in the power of public education will be key factors for voters to consider as they decide on the future of the Board of Education.