Lee Powell of Cullman has announced he will seek the Place 3 seat on the Cullman City Board of Education in the Aug. 23 municipal election.

Powell, a local businessman, is married to Ginger Powell. They have two daughters — one in elementary school, and the other soon to be. Powell said he is excited about the opportunity to serve Cullman City Schools and the community. 

“As a parent of two young children, I have more than a mild interest in the long-term future of Cullman City Schools,” he said. “As a business owner, I know how important the school system is to not only the parents, teachers, and students; but also to the entire community and business environment. 

“I feel that Cullman City Schools have a great heritage. And I would like to preserve that heritage while looking to the future, and making sure that our students continue to have access to the same opportunities as other children.”

A former educator himself, Powell said he’s been surrounded by the education profession his entire life.

“With my mother, father, grandmother and aunt all having taught for over 30 years and my wife and sister-in-law currently serving in education, I don’t have educational ‘theories’ — I feel that I have actual practice and resources,” he said. “I have taught English and History in grades 7-12, while also serving in capacities as a coach and sponsor in everything from yearbook staff, to football, softball and tennis coach.  

“I think these varied experiences allow me to have a ‘front line’ viewpoint, so to speak.”

As the owner of a financial services and insurance business, Powell said his work has given him perspective and insight into sound fiscal management. That perspective, he said, will inform sound financial decisions in his role as a school board member.

“As anyone in business — regardless of the scale — can attest, there are certain fiscal responsibilities that must be met on a daily basis, or you won’t be in business long,” he said. “You have to have forward, long-range vision to be able to last. Knowing when to spend, and the goal of that expenditure, is a skill that you have to learn quickly.”

Summarizing his reasons for seeking the office, Powell emphasized a goal of cooperation.

“I’m not running because I have all of the answers,” he said. “I’m running to serve with a group of people who will make the best choices possible. I feel that we have enough qualified educators, administrators and parents that there is no reason for any one entity to have to go at it alone. 

“I think a cohesive, friendly atmosphere, with a good solid chain of command, goes a long way in striving for success. I would like to be a part of something like that.”