The Ledger

By Becky Holland

Kandi Lucas, a longtime educator and Bleckley County resident, has announced her candidacy for the District 5 seat on the Bleckley County Board of Education.

Lucas, 57, has lived in Bleckley County for 46 years. She is married to her husband, Andy, and the couple has one daughter. A 1986 graduate of Bleckley County High School, Lucas went on to earn her degree from Georgia Southern University, later obtaining a master’s degree in education.

With a career spanning 30 years in the classroom, Lucas taught first and second grade before retiring. She now continues to serve students as a substitute teacher for grades kindergarten through 11th.

Lucas said her decision to run for the Board of Education is rooted in her firsthand experience in the school system.

“I feel like we need an educator on the board,” she said. “After 30 years of being in the classroom, I believe I have an understanding of how our schools operate from both the inside and outside. I want to be a voice for parents, teachers, and, of course, our students.”

Throughout her career, Lucas estimates she has taught more than 700 students, an experience she says has shaped her understanding of the impact educators can have beyond academics.

“Teachers do more than teach,” she said. “They can impact a student’s life as they grow and become productive citizens of our community.”

If elected, Lucas said she hopes to address key issues within the school system, including ensuring that curriculum aligns with state standards while also meeting the needs of students.

“We need to make sure that all curriculum in place is in compliance with state standards and with students’ needs,” she said. “We also need to empower and support our teachers, as they are an intricate part of the school system.”

Lucas added that real classroom experience brings a valuable perspective to decision-making.

“What is written on paper may sound good, but until you are in the trenches, you don’t really know what fits,” she said.

Reflecting on her own journey, Lucas shared advice she would give her younger self: “Be patient, trust the process, and learn from your mistakes. It is okay to make mistakes.”

Over the years, Lucas has received numerous honors and served on several instrumental state education committees. However, she said the recognition that meant the most came from a student.

“The honor that meant the most was ‘Teacher is Tops,’” she said. “An 8-year-old student, Layla, wrote a letter to a local television station explaining why I was her favorite teacher. I still have that handwritten letter. She did it—not an adult.”

Moments like that, Lucas said, are a reminder of the lasting impact educators can have.

“You never know how much of an impact you can make on a life,” she said.