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FROM STAFF REPORTS

Veteran teacher, Dr. Donna Strong, hopes to bring her education experience and leadership to the political arena in Montgomery.

Strong is a Republican candidate for the Alabama House of Representatives for District 49, serving parts of Bibb, Chilton and Shelby counties.

For 31 years, Strong has been an educator teaching at the middle, high and college levels.

“Alabama schools are full of wonderful teachers, counselors, administrators, bus drivers, instructional aides, office staff, custodians and child nutrition workers who care deeply for children,” she said. “Our educators work tirelessly to help every child reach his or her potential.

“When everything from class sizes, curriculum programs, school calendars, educator salaries and standardized testing are legislatively mandated, public schools are at the mercy of our legislators. Unfortunately, the policies and funding don’t always match what is needed for our children.”

Strong said she wants to cut wasteful spending and see curricula implemented that helps all students learn to think critically, communicate clearly and solve problems in their everyday lives now and for their future.

“After three decades as a teacher, I have also seen a significant increase in mental health and personal safety problems with today’s teens.  Health and safety resources for our students must be enhanced for students,” Strong said.

Enhancing the infrastructure in District 49 will also be a top priority for Strong.

“The events of the past several months have brought new awareness of the critical dependence we all have for a strong and stable economy,” she said. “Safe roads, effective schools, accessible local health care and adequately funded police and fire departments are the key elements to encourage both small and large business growth. “

She used the example Alabama 119 from Alabaster to Montevallo being addressed.

“It is already congested and dangerous, and there are plans to add more subdivisions along this road,” Strong said. “As a legislator these important local and state issues will always be my top priority.”

As a science teacher, nature enthusiast and animal lover, Strong is also dedicated to protecting our environment.

“From the scenic mountains of north Alabama to the beautiful beaches of our southern coast, we have one of the most biodiverse states in the country,” she said. “I believe we should all together work to protect our environment. Some Alabama plants and animals are found nowhere else in the world. And importantly, our unique and picturesque landscapes are critical to the people and jobs that depend on the tourism driven by our beautiful landscapes.”

She said she wants to encourage community recycling programs and see tougher sanctions on companies and individuals who harm the environment.

Strong is a native of Shelby County.

After graduating from Chelsea High School, she attended Auburn University where she earned her Bachelor of Science and Master of Education degrees.

She later received her PhD from Penn State University.  Strong has lived with her husband and children in Alabaster for more than 20 years.  Her husband Russell is a retired Navy Chief and educator.

Her children Shelby, Sophie and James are all finding their way through college and new careers.  To learn more about Strong and her campaign, visit VoteDrStrong.org.