JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Two out of the three candidates running for the District 5 seat were at Tuesday night's candidate forum hosted by the Jacksonville Public Education Fund at Edward Waters University.
Nahshon Nicks and Hank Rogers said they're no stranger to DCPS schools. They both spoke to District 5 constituents about why they believe they're the best fit for the job.
"I've been meeting my constituents face to face," said Nicks.
"If you elect me, you will elect someone who has always showed up," said Rogers.
Both took turns Tuesday night introducing themselves to constituents and answering questions over pressing district issues from student safety and school closures to retaining teachers and increasing graduation rates.
“I do want to fight to keep our neighborhood schools open," said Nicks, "Our local neighborhood schools hold our tradition for some it holds our identity."
"My hope is to take a hardcore look to see if we can save all schools, but we do have some schools in a challenging situation," said Rogers, "I want to continue to fight for our students to make sure they are prepared for the real world."
The primary election is fewer than 30 days away and both candidates expressed to voters why they're the right fit for the job.
“My values are simple: faith, family and community," said Nicks, "I will fight for every child like they are my own to make sure they are getting a high quality, high standard Duval County public education”
“I have been passionate about children ensuring at the end of the day we provide them with a high quality education they deserve,” said Rogers.
Reginald Blount is the third candidate running for District 5. At the start of the forum, the Jacksonville Public Education Fund said Blount planned to attend but was unable to make it.
The JPEF will be hosting their last candidate forum for District 7 on Thursday, Aug. 1 at 6 p.m. at the Hopewell Church.