SALISBURY – Tuesday’s election for the Rowan-Salisbury School System Board of Education saw an incumbent successfully fend off a challenger.

Dr. Lynn Marsh, who represents the Southeast District (Carson High School), defeated political newcomer McKenzie Kelly by a margin of 13 points. Lynn’s 30,499 votes represented 56.32% of the electorate, compared to Kelly’s 23,141 votes (42.73%).

After the dust settled, Marsh thanked her constituents for re-electing her to a second term, adding that she was ready to get down to business.

“I will continue to act on behalf of all students so that they are successful in their life goals,” Marsh said. “I feel blessed and look forward to the opportunity to be a part of making the citizens of Rowan County proud of their school district.”

Given her experience, Marsh acknowledged that the school board requires a group effort.

“A person elected to the school board cannot act on behalf of the board,” she said. “It is composed of a group of seven individuals who must reach a consensus on any decision.”

Marsh pointed to school safety as a priority he wanted to focus on.

“We must continue to create and implement policies to make all of our schools safer for our students, teachers, administrators, staff and parents,” she said. “The school system’s disciplinary code of conduct has been rewritten and implemented over the past two years.

“Steps have been taken to ensure that safety measures are in place. Some of these include: resource officers are at all schools and school events; purchase of metal detectors, scanners and wands; installed bell systems and vestibules for entering schools.”

Marsh went on to say that increased compensation for teachers was another area he wanted to address.

“I want to advocate for higher teacher salaries and the recognition of their profession because they deserve it,” Marsh said. “They go to school to keep renewing their license. They must also have the Master payment. We will be advocating to get them more money and fundraising because they deserve it.”

Marsh expressed optimism about the opportunity the unique status presents to renew the Rowan-Salisbury school system.

“I want to make sure we take advantage of all the renewal things we have available and become a model for the state,” Marsh said.

She brings back to the board extensive experience in education at various levels.

“I continue to learn about education and all the laws and things that happen in the state legislature,” Marsh said. “I feel that my background has helped me become a leader in this profession. I want to continue on the school board to make sure our kids have a bright future.”