Debbie Elkins has announced her intention to run for the Decatur County Board of Education, District 1, seat. That seat had been held by Clarissa Kendrick, who resigned from the board June 30.

Elkins, who has worked with Palmer Insurance for 12 years, said she has always had an interest in education.

“Several years ago, I began doing a lot of research into how the system works,” she said. “To me, the most important thing is to make sure we are making the best use of our tax dollars. We need to be sure we’re utilizing state and federal funds to offset our costs.

“We can’t sacrifice our children’s education while we’re looking to cut costs.”

Elkins is a lifelong resident of Decatur County, who graduated from Bainbridge College in 1986 with associate’s degrees in secondary education and psychology. She has previously served as an instructor with the Bainbridge College Continuing Education program, a youth group leader and a Vacation Bible School teacher and director.

She is currently an active member of the Bainbridge College Advisory Committee and the Woodmen of the World Faceville lodge. She also previously served as a member of the board of directors for the Humane Society of Bainbridge-Decatur County.

Elkins said communication, especially between teachers and parents, is key to the success of any school system.

“We must form a strong collaboration between the parents, teachers and students, in order to give the students the tools they need to be successful,” she said. “We must set policies that ensure the best possible situation for our educators, children and parents.”

Elkins has been married to her husband, Jimmy, for 34 years, and they have two children and two grandchildren. Elkins is a member of Faceville Baptist Church.

She said her motto is A.B.C. — ”Always Believing in our Children.”

“Together, we can build a brighter future for our children,” she said.