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Carmalita Escoto is seeking to retain her seat on the Charlotte County School Board.

Escoto currently represents the County Seat District on the school board after being appointed to the seat in October of 2020 following the resignation of Angela Cook.

“My desire is to continue serving with the School Board to build positive futures for our children by working collaboratively with the schools, families and the community,” Escoto said. “One of my goals is to focus on student achievement and help establish policies that will ensure success for all students. I believe all children, regardless of their race, economic status or family background, should receive meaningful instruction to get the best education possible.”

Escoto, who was appointed to the board in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, said much changed during that time.

“We had to make quick adjustments to ensure the students were able to continue receiving the proper education amid the distractions from COVID,” she said. “This, along with our children’s safety, was and still continues to be our number one priority.”

Currently, Escoto is serving on the school system’s disciplinary committee and says she has a goal in mind to improve alternative options and plans for students. “I currently serve as an advocate for parents with children who need assistance with navigating and understanding individualized education plans,” Escoto said. “And I will continue to interact with teachers, students and their parents where appropriate to influence change and improvement where needed.”

Escoto is a graduate of Randolph-Henry High School and currently has a sixth-grader at Central Middle School. In addition, Escoto has two daughters who graduated with honors from Randolph-Henry.

Escoto has a Bachelor of Science degree from Old Dominion University and a Master of Arts in Human Services Counselling – Executive Leadership from Liberty University.

“I have over 22 years of experience working in the mental health field serving adults and children,” Escoto said. “In past years, I have been a volunteer with the Southside Christmas Parent who provides gifts and toys to children and their families at Christmas time. I have dedicated my entire life to serving others.”