Meet your candidates: Ginger Rose Vann for School Board District 5

In advance of the upcoming local elections, the Gazette sat down with candidates seeking office across Cheatham County to hear directly about their priorities, platforms and visions for the community. 

Each candidate discussed what sets them apart and how they compare to their opponents in contested races. Early voting for the county primaries is scheduled to take place April 15-30 leading up to Election Day on May 5, giving residents ample opportunity to make their voices heard at the ballot box. See the full early voting schedule here.

Ginger Rose Vann is running as a republican for School Board District 5 – which oversees Pegram Fine Arts Elementary School. The position is currently held by Robert Epps, who is not seeking re-election. 

Vann is running against Democrat Rebecca Shrem. Since there is one seat for this position, both parties will move their candidates to the general election ballot on Aug. 6. Only Pegram residents will see this seat on their ballot.

Early voting will take place at Pegram City Hall. Kingston Springs residents will vote on election day at Harpeth High School. Pegram residents will vote on election day at Pegram City Hall.

Below, get acquainted with Vann and delve into her perspectives on crucial issues through our comprehensive Q&A session.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

KSG: Can you introduce yourself and explain why you’re running for the District 5 School Board seat?

Vann: I grew up in Cheatham County, and graduated from Cheatham County Central High School. My husband Jody and I have eight grandchildren in Cheatham County schools and three that are on the spectrum. This led me to pursue becoming a Certified Special Education Advocate in order to help my family as well as other families navigate the complexities of Individualized Education Programs and special education.    

I am on the Family Support Council for District 5 that covers Cheatham, Dickson, Houston, Humphreys, Montgomery and Stewart counties that helps facilitate grants for children with disabilities. I am also on the Board of Directors of the Cheatham County Chamber of Commerce, the Creekers Ball Board of Directors, Cheatham County Industrial Development Board and co-founder, along with my husband, of Bruce's Buddies, which is an organization that coordinates events for special needs people to enjoy typical activities – but catered more to their needs.  

KSG: How will you ensure parents and community members feel heard while also supporting educators and administrators?  

Vann: Being a special education advocate, listening and research play a huge role. I don't make decisions or recommendations without thoroughly researching the topic, from the federal and state level down. I listen to parent concerns as well as educators and administrators and try to find a balance between the two.

KSG: School boards often face controversial or emotional issues. How would you approach decision-making when the community is divided?

Vann: Again, research and listening. I have learned that sometimes what we as parents think should be done, the school system might not legally be able to do. I would strive to effectively communicate why or why not a decision was made.

KSG: Do you support the School Board’s decision to lease land near Harpeth Middle School for the new South Cheatham Library facility?  

Vann: Absolutely, I appreciate the fact the location is within walking distance to both Harpeth Middle School and Harpeth High School, and look forward to the programming they will be able to provide to students of South Cheatham.

KSG: What does success look like for Cheatham County schools over the next four years, and what role would you play in achieving that?   

Vann: Transparency, open lines of communication and a place where parents feel heard and their concerns addressed.

KSG: Why should voters in District 5 choose you to represent them on the School Board?

Vann: I feel I have a unique perspective being a caregiver of a special needs student. I navigate the school system on a daily basis, and would love the opportunity to broaden that to the administrative level.