Bill Hanesworth

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Bill Hanesworth was the at-large Position 4 representative on the Fort Smith Board of Education in Arkansas. He defeated incumbent Rick Wade Jr. in the general election on September 15, 2015.
Biography
Hanesworth earned a bachelor's degree in secondary education. He worked as a general manager and vice president for Rheem Manufacturing Company before becoming chief executive officer of Littlefield Oil. Hanesworth and his wife, Melissa, have two children who were attending district schools as of September 2015.[1]
Elections
2015
Three of the seven seats on the Fort Smith Board of Education were up for election on September 15, 2015. In the Zone 1, Position 6 race, incumbent Russell Owen lost his re-election bid against challenger Wade Gilkey. In the At-large Position 4 race, Bill Hanesworth defeated incumbent Rick Wade Jr. Zone 4, Position 3 incumbent Yvonne Keaton-Martin won re-election without opposition.
Results
This election was held September 15, 2015.
Fort Smith Public Schools, At-large Position 4, General Election, 2015 | ||
---|---|---|
Candidate | Vote % | Votes |
Rick Wade Jr. Incumbent | 28.5% | 928 |
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71.5% | 2,333 |
Total Votes (100% of precincts reporting) | 3,261 | |
Source: Sebastian County Clerk, "Sebastian County Election Results," accessed September 15, 2015 |
Endorsements
Hanesworth did not receive any official endorsements for this election.
Campaign themes
2015
Hanesworth answered the following questions during an interview with the Times Record:
What do you hope to accomplish if elected/re-elected?
“ |
Improve accessibility and transparency for the community with current and future strategies. Evaluate alternative academic programs that serve the needs of all students. Highlight opportunities that exist between local businesses, UAFS and the school system to expand learning experiences. Create an environment that encourages involvement. Provide a safe, secure learning environment for all students and teachers. [2] |
” |
—Bill Hanesworth, (2015), [1] |
What are the challenges ahead for Fort Smith public schools?
“ |
There are many changes ahead that include decisions on needed investments in buildings and facilities, alternative education programs and budget constraints. [2] |
” |
—Bill Hanesworth, (2015), [1] |
What is your stance on the retirement of Southside High School’s Rebel mascot?
“ |
First , I think the process was flawed. The optics of the process have only served to polarize our community. I believe if open communication would occur there is a possibility to reach an acceptable compromise solution for all. [2] |
” |
—Bill Hanesworth, (2015), [1] |
Recent news
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See also
- Fort Smith Public Schools, Arkansas
- Fort Smith Public Schools elections (2015)
- Analysis of incumbency advantage in the 2014 school board elections
External links
Footnotes