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Rebekah Ricks
From Ballotpedia
This page was current at the end of the individual's last campaign covered by Ballotpedia. Please contact us with any updates.
Rebekah Ricks ran for election to the Polk County Public Schools school board to represent District 4 in Florida. She lost in the primary on August 20, 2024.
Ricks completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.
Biography
Rebekah Ricks was born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. She earned a bachelor's degree from Oklahoma Baptist University in 2001. Her career experience includes working as an educator and administrator.[1]
Elections
2024
See also: Polk County Public Schools, Florida, elections (2024)
Nonpartisan primary election
Nonpartisan primary for Polk County Public Schools school board District 4
Incumbent Sara Beth Reynolds Wyatt won election outright against Rebekah Ricks in the primary for Polk County Public Schools school board District 4 on August 20, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | Sara Beth Reynolds Wyatt (Nonpartisan) | 61.4 | 43,478 | |
 | Rebekah Ricks (Nonpartisan)  | 38.6 | 27,311 | |
| Total votes: 70,789 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
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Endorsements
Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Ricks in this election.
2016
Two of the seven seats on the Polk County Public Schools school board were up for general election on November 8, 2016. District 1 incumbent Hunt Berryman faced challengers Billy Townsend and Ed Shoemaker in the primary election on August 30, 2016. Since no candidate won more than 50 percent of the primary vote, the top two vote-getters—Townsend and Berryman—advanced to the general election, with Townsend winning the seat. The open District 4 seat attracted four candidates in the primary: Becky Troutman, Ed Smith, Rebekah Ricks, and Sara Reynolds. Troutman and Reynolds advanced to the general, and Reynolds emerged victorious. The District 2 seat was also on the primary ballot, and incumbent Lori Cunningham was successful in her bid for re-election against Kevin Kitto, Ronnie Clark, and Tim James.[2][3]
Results
| Polk County Public Schools, District 4 Primary Election, 4-year term, 2016 |
||
|---|---|---|
| Candidate | Vote % | Votes |
 Becky Troutman |
38.26% | 25,114 |
| Sara Reynolds |
25.10% | 16,478 |
| Ed Smith | 24.51% | 16,092 |
| Rebekah Ricks | 12.13% | 7,963 |
| Total Votes | 65,647 | |
| Source: Polk County Supervisor of Elections, "2016 Primary Election Official Results," accessed November 30, 2016 | ||
Funding
Ricks reported $2,870.00 in contributions and $2,854.97 in expenditures to the Polk County Supervisor of Elections, which left her with $15.03 cash on hand as of August 26, 2016.[4]
Campaign themes
2024
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Rebekah Ricks completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Ricks' responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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Rebekah Ricks is a dedicated candidate for the Polk County School Board with over a decade of classroom teaching experience, including founding a university model school for ESE students. She leads The Coalition of Mothers and co-founded The Alliance of Mothers and Vote Your Vision, advocating for education, family values, and community support. Rebekah has successfully drafted and passed state-level education legislation and has extensive community involvement, including leading children's church and volunteering as a camp counselor for over 15 years. She is committed to improving teacher salaries, supporting ESE students, enhancing professional development, and fostering community partnerships. Rebekah's goal is to ensure every student in Polk County has the opportunity to succeed and that schools are equipped with the resources they need to thrive.
- Rights - In Polk County, 15% of students have learning disabilities and another 15% are ESOL (English Speakers of Other Languages) students, highlighting the critical need for specialized education. I advocate for the establishment of more specialized schools tailored to these students' unique needs. By providing targeted support, we can ensure that every student has access to an education that meets their specific learning requirements. This includes hiring qualified special education teachers, developing individualized learning plans, and creating inclusive environments where all students can thrive. My commitment is to uphold the rights of all students to receive a quality education that prepares them for a successful future.
- Resources - Polk County is experiencing rapid growth, with 30,000 to 50,000 new families moving here annually, making it one of the fastest-growing areas in the U.S. To accommodate this influx, it's essential to ensure our schools have sufficient resources for both students and teachers to thrive. This means advocating for increased funding to expand and upgrade school facilities, hiring more qualified teachers to maintain manageable class sizes, and providing the necessary materials and technology for a modern, effective learning environment. My goal is to ensure that as our community grows, our education system grows with it, offering every student the opportunity to succeed.
- Results - In Polk County, 60% of 10th graders did not achieve reading proficiency, and over 50% of students missed more than 10 days of school. These statistics highlight a pressing need for strategies to improve both attendance and academic performance. I advocate for implementing comprehensive programs to ensure daily attendance for every student, such as creating engaging and supportive school environments, establishing strong communication with parents, and providing incentives for regular attendance. Additionally, targeted reading intervention programs and support services will help improve literacy rates. By addressing both attendance and academic challenges, we can ensure that all students have the opportunity to succeed.
With over 23 years in education, including teaching, school administration, and founding nonprofits and businesses, I am passionate about several public policy areas. I advocate for school choice, student rights, and have created programs for both gifted and struggling students. My leadership roles, such as Chair of the Florida Parent Educators Association Foundation and Board Member of the Florida School Music Association, reflect my dedication to improving education. I am committed to policies that support teachers, enhance educational opportunities, and foster a thriving, inclusive learning environment for all students.
I look up to my parents, who have been my greatest inspirations. Both my mother and father were teachers, and my father also served as a Baptist pastor. They dedicated their lives to helping others and making a positive difference in their community. Their commitment to education, faith, and service has deeply influenced me. I strive to follow their example by working to improve our schools and support our community, just as they did throughout their lives. Their legacy of compassion, dedication, and service continues to guide my values and actions.
For someone who wants to understand my political philosophy, I would recommend a few inspiring films and a powerful quote that deeply resonate with my values and approach to leadership. Mr. Smith Goes to Washington embodies integrity, perseverance, and dedication to public service, highlighting the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of overwhelming opposition. This aligns with my commitment to advocating for students, teachers, and the community with unwavering dedication. Gladiator explores themes of honor, duty, and justice, emphasizing the importance of fighting for a greater good and standing firm in one's principles. This reflects my dedication to serving the community and ensuring that every decision made benefits the people. Rocky is a testament to resilience, hard work, and determination, illustrating that success comes from persistence and the willingness to overcome obstacles. These values are central to my approach to public service, where perseverance and dedication are key to achieving meaningful results for our schools and community. Lastly, the quote, "All that is needed for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing," underscores the importance of taking action and being proactive in addressing issues. It reflects my commitment to being an active and engaged leader who does not shy away from challenges but instead works tirelessly to create positive change. These films and the quote encapsulate the principles of integrity, resilience, and active engagement that guide my political philosophy and my approach to serving on the Polk County School Board. Through these stories of perseverance, honor, and dedication, one can gain a deeper understanding of the values that drive me and my commitment to making a difference in our community. By embracing these ideals, I strive to lead with integrity, support our students and teachers, and ensure that every decision is made with the best interests of our community at heart.
For an elected official, several characteristics and principles are crucial for effective leadership. Upholding strong faith-based family values is essential, as it ensures that decisions are rooted in integrity, compassion, and respect for all individuals. These values guide their actions and policies, promoting a sense of moral responsibility. Experience is also vital; officials with a robust background in relevant fields, such as education or public service, bring valuable insights and practical knowledge to the role. This experience helps them navigate complex issues and implement effective solutions. Additionally, a servant leader prioritizes the community's needs above their own, demonstrating humility, empathy, and dedication. They actively listen to constituents, collaborate with others, and work tirelessly to improve the lives of those they serve. This principle fosters trust and promotes a collaborative approach to governance. Combining these principles—faith-based family values, experience, and servant leadership—ensures that an elected official can effectively represent and serve their community with integrity and dedication.
I believe several qualities I possess would make me a successful officeholder. My dedication and commitment to the well-being and success of our students, teachers, and community drive me to work tirelessly for the best outcomes. With extensive leadership experience, including founding educational programs and leading nonprofit organizations, I have developed strong leadership skills and know how to build and guide teams effectively. My advocacy skills, honed through successfully drafting and passing state-level education legislation, allow me to navigate the legislative process to achieve positive changes. I excel in communication, listening to the needs and concerns of students, parents, and teachers, and effectively conveying our goals and plans to the community. I am a problem-solver with a solution-oriented mindset, approaching challenges with practical strategies. Empathy and compassion, learned from my parents who were dedicated teachers and a pastor, guide my decisions to reflect the best interests of those I serve. Integrity is central to my work, as I believe in honesty and transparency to build trust within the community. With a clear vision for improving our education system, focusing on foundational skills, mental health support, and community involvement, I am equipped to be an effective and successful officeholder dedicated to making a meaningful impact.
The core responsibilities for someone elected to the School Board include several key areas of focus. First and foremost, they must advocate for the needs and rights of students and teachers, ensuring that their voices are heard and prioritized in decision-making processes. This involves developing, reviewing, and implementing policies that enhance the quality of education, setting strategic goals, and monitoring progress to make necessary adjustments for continuous improvement. Budget management is another critical responsibility, requiring oversight of financial resources to ensure they are allocated efficiently and effectively, aligning with the district's priorities and needs.
Community engagement is also essential, as it involves actively communicating with parents, students, teachers, and community members to gather input, address concerns, and build trust. This open dialogue helps in making informed decisions that reflect the community's values. Additionally, maintaining high standards of accountability and transparency is crucial, ensuring that all actions and decisions are conducted with integrity, openness, and honesty. By focusing on these responsibilities, an elected official can effectively contribute to the success and well-being of the entire school district.
Community engagement is also essential, as it involves actively communicating with parents, students, teachers, and community members to gather input, address concerns, and build trust. This open dialogue helps in making informed decisions that reflect the community's values. Additionally, maintaining high standards of accountability and transparency is crucial, ensuring that all actions and decisions are conducted with integrity, openness, and honesty. By focusing on these responsibilities, an elected official can effectively contribute to the success and well-being of the entire school district.
The legacy I want to leave is one of active engagement and unwavering commitment to doing what is right, both in the community and within the church. Inspired by the adage, "All that is needed for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing," I am determined not to stand by passively. I want to ensure that evil does not prevail and that my children see me as someone who took action to make a positive difference. Through my work in education, community service, and active involvement in our church, I aim to create a better, safer, and more equitable world for future generations. I want my legacy to be one of courage, integrity, and proactive efforts to improve our schools and support our community, demonstrating to my children and others the importance of standing up for what is right and living out our faith through service.
The first historical event I remember is the fall of the Berlin Wall. I was young at the time, and my father called us into the room to watch it on TV, telling us it was a moment we would want to remember. Another significant event from my early childhood was the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster. I was in second grade, and we watched the launch live on TV in our classroom. These experiences made me realize the profound impact of historical events and their significance in shaping our world.
My very first job was cleaning hotel rooms, which I initially found to be quite challenging. I worked in this position for three years, during which I worked my way up through various roles. I transitioned to handling breakfast service, then moved to the front desk, and eventually took on night audit responsibilities. My dedication and hard work led to my promotion to Front Office Manager and Sales. This experience taught me the value of perseverance, adaptability, and the importance of customer service.
I have a few favorite books that have deeply influenced me: "The Great Gatsby," "The Black Rose" by Thomas B. Costain, "And Then There Were None" by Agatha Christie, and "To Kill a Mockingbird." I love "The Great Gatsby" for its rich depiction of the American Dream and the complexities of human nature, offering timeless insights into society and the pursuit of success. "The Black Rose" captivates me with its historical adventure and romance, showcasing Costain's talent for blending fiction with historical facts. "And Then There Were None" enthralls me with its masterful suspense and intricate plot, demonstrating Agatha Christie's exceptional storytelling and character development. "To Kill a Mockingbird" holds a special place for its powerful exploration of racial injustice and moral integrity, reminding us of the importance of empathy and standing up for what is right. These books have left a lasting impact on me, each offering unique perspectives on society, human nature, and the power of determination and justice.
In my view, the primary job of a school board member is to ensure every student receives a high-quality education in a safe and supportive environment. This involves creating and overseeing policies that promote academic excellence and well-being, setting strategic goals, and making necessary adjustments for continuous improvement. Effective budget management is also crucial, requiring oversight of financial resources to ensure they are used efficiently and prioritize student and teacher needs. Additionally, a school board member must advocate for the community, acting as a voice for students, parents, and teachers at local, state, and national levels to address their concerns and needs.
My constituents include a diverse group of individuals within Polk County who are directly impacted by the education system. This encompasses students, who are the primary beneficiaries of our educational policies and initiatives, and whose academic success and well-being are my top priorities. It also includes parents and guardians, who entrust their children to the school system and are deeply invested in their education and development. Additionally, teachers and school staff are crucial constituents, as they work tirelessly to educate and support our students and deserve fair compensation, professional development, and a positive work environment. Community members, including residents who may not have direct ties to the schools, also play a role, understanding that strong schools contribute to a vibrant community. Local businesses and organizations are key partners as well, benefiting from a well-educated workforce and often collaborating with schools to provide resources and support. Each of these groups guides my efforts and decisions as a school board member.
Supporting the diverse needs of our district’s students, faculty, staff, and community requires a comprehensive and inclusive approach. For students, I would implement Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and strengthen English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) programs, while also offering enrichment and mental health resources. For faculty and staff, I would advocate for continuous professional development, fair compensation, and a supportive work environment. Engaging the community through regular town halls, surveys, and open forums, and building partnerships with local businesses and institutions, would provide additional resources and opportunities. This holistic approach would foster an environment where everyone has the opportunity to succeed and thrive.
Building strong relationships with the broader community is essential for the success of our schools. Following the HOPE Florida plan, I will actively engage with faith leaders to foster collaboration and support. Ensuring that parents feel included in the educational process, I will advocate for the establishment and active participation of PTAs in every school, serving as a platform for parents to engage with teachers. Additionally, I will target local businesses and industry leaders to create opportunities for student internships and resources, partner with nonprofits focused on education and community development, collaborate with higher education institutions for student advancement and teacher development, and work with civic and community groups to support educational initiatives. This comprehensive approach will create a network of support that enhances the educational experience, strengthens community ties, and ensures active involvement from all stakeholders in the success of our schools.
Good teaching involves several key components that create an effective learning environment. It begins with engaging students and making learning interactive and enjoyable. Teachers must have deep subject matter expertise to convey complex concepts clearly and adapt their methods to meet diverse student needs. Effective assessment and timely feedback are essential for keeping students on track, while strong classroom management ensures a structured yet flexible environment. Providing support and encouragement fosters a positive atmosphere, and a commitment to continuous improvement keeps teaching practices current and effective.
To measure good teaching, we use a mix of student performance data, classroom observations, and student feedback. Encouraging teacher self-assessment and participation in professional development also provides insights into teaching effectiveness.
Supporting advanced teaching approaches involves offering continuous professional development, providing access to the latest educational tools and technology, and fostering a collaborative culture among teachers. Recognizing and rewarding innovative teaching, encouraging educational research, and providing strong administrative support further enhance teaching quality.
Given that 60% of our students do not read at grade level, our primary focus should be on ensuring proficiency in the basics of reading, writing, and arithmetic. All resources should be directed towards strengthening these essential skills, as they form the foundation for all other learning. We need to implement intensive reading programs with specialized teachers, evidence-based strategies, and additional resources. Enhancing writing skills through practice across subjects and professional development for teachers is also crucial. In arithmetic, adopting curricula that emphasize hands-on learning and real-world applications, along with extra support for those who need it, is key. Additionally, innovative programming such as reading labs, literacy integration across subjects, math workshops, and parental involvement initiatives will support these foundational skills. By concentrating our efforts on these basics, we can ensure that all students have the necessary tools for academic and future success.
To ensure our schools are properly funded, I would advocate for a multi-faceted approach that includes promoting school choice, encouraging the growth of private and charter schools, and developing strong private partnerships and funding initiatives. Supporting school choice can alleviate pressure on public schools, allowing them to focus resources more effectively. Developing partnerships with local businesses and organizations can provide additional funding and resources through sponsorships, grants, and donations. Pursuing innovative funding strategies, such as grant writing and community fundraisers, can also bring in extra resources. Advocacy for policy changes at local and state levels to secure more funding and ensure equitable distribution is crucial. Additionally, ensuring efficient and effective use of existing funds through regular audits and assessments will maximize the impact of available resources. This comprehensive approach will help secure the necessary funding to provide a high-quality education for all students in our district.
My policies for school safety are driven by principles focused on creating a secure, supportive, and proactive environment for all students, staff, and visitors. This includes implementing comprehensive security measures such as controlled access points, surveillance systems, and regular safety drills to prevent and respond to potential threats effectively. Prioritizing mental health support by providing access to counselors, psychologists, and social workers is crucial for addressing issues before they escalate. Enforcing robust anti-bullying programs and fostering a positive school culture, alongside establishing strong partnerships with local law enforcement for coordinated emergency response, are key strategies. Ongoing safety training and education for staff, students, and parents, as well as community involvement in safety planning, ensure a collective effort towards maintaining safety. Regular safety assessments and updates to protocols based on best practices and feedback further enhance our preparedness. Together, these principles create a comprehensive approach to ensuring a safe and supportive learning environment.
Supporting the mental health needs of students, faculty, and staff is crucial for a healthy school environment. For faculty and staff, I would provide access to mental health resources, including counseling services and stress management workshops, and offer professional development focused on mental health awareness and self-care strategies. Creating a supportive work environment where faculty and staff feel valued and heard is essential. For students, ensuring access to school counselors and mental health professionals is a priority. Additionally, I believe in the importance of parental rights; thus, students' mental health needs should be communicated to their parents, allowing them to decide the best course of action. Providing parents with resources and information about mental health will enable them to support their children effectively. Implementing education and awareness programs that teach students about managing stress, building resilience, and seeking help when needed is also vital. This comprehensive approach ensures that the mental health needs of everyone in the school community are addressed and supported.
I believe several existing district policies could be improved, and new policies should be implemented to better serve our community. Enhancing parental involvement through regular forums, surveys, and committees with parent representatives is crucial. We need more comprehensive mental health support and regular safety drills for students and staff. Prioritizing foundational skills in reading, writing, and arithmetic is essential, given that 60% of our students do not read at grade level, and this can be achieved through targeted interventions and specialized teacher training. Expanding school choice by supporting private and charter schools will alleviate pressure on public schools and provide tailored educational opportunities. Additionally, developing strong private partnerships and innovative funding strategies will ensure adequate funding for all schools. Implementing an opt-in policy for masks and health protocols respects parental rights and fosters trust. Finally, establishing a clear process for challenging books and curriculum, involving formal submissions, a review committee, and transparent communication, will ensure responsiveness to community concerns.
My ideal learning environment for students prioritizes safety, support, and engagement, fostering both academic and personal growth. Ensuring a secure environment where students feel safe physically and emotionally, with strict anti-bullying policies and comprehensive safety protocols, is paramount. A nurturing atmosphere that promotes a strong sense of community among students and staff, alongside resources for mental health and well-being, is essential. Engaging, hands-on learning opportunities, supported by passionate and highly qualified educators, make learning dynamic and relevant. Adequate resources, up-to-date materials, and personalized learning plans cater to each student's unique needs, allowing them to progress at their own pace. Active involvement from parents and the community further supports student success, creating a collaborative environment. Emphasizing holistic development, including academic excellence, social skills, emotional intelligence, and physical well-being, ensures students are well-rounded individuals prepared for future challenges.
The handling of the coronavirus pandemic by the school district presented significant challenges and important lessons. While many efforts were made to ensure safety and continuity of education, I believe that greater emphasis on listening to parents' concerns could have improved the response. Parents overwhelmingly did not want students to be masked, and respecting their input is crucial. In the future, I would advocate for an opt-in policy for masks, allowing parents to decide whether their children should wear masks. It is essential to respect parental rights and ensure they have a say in procedures that directly affect their children. This approach not only honors the role of parents but also helps build trust and collaboration between the school district and families. Additionally, ongoing communication and transparency with parents would be a priority, ensuring that their voices are heard and considered in all decision-making processes.
Building strong relationships with parents in the district is a priority. I will establish regular communication through newsletters, social media updates, and town hall meetings to keep parents informed. I will advocate for active PTAs in every school, providing a platform for parent-teacher collaboration. Organizing inclusive events and workshops on relevant topics will engage parents and address their concerns. Implementing feedback mechanisms like surveys will ensure parents feel heard. I will also encourage diverse volunteer opportunities, allowing parents to be more involved in their children’s education. Additionally, providing access to support services such as counseling and tutoring will help meet the diverse needs of families. This comprehensive approach will foster open communication, active involvement, and strong, supportive relationships with parents, enhancing the educational experience for students and creating a connected school community.
My preferred strategies for recruiting faculty, staff, and administration focus on attracting high-quality candidates who are dedicated to student success and fostering a positive educational environment. This includes offering competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits packages, alongside continuous professional development opportunities to enhance skills and career growth. Implementing inclusive hiring practices ensures a diverse workforce reflective of our community, while strong support systems like mentoring and onboarding programs help new hires integrate smoothly. Cultivating a positive, collaborative work environment that values and respects all contributions is crucial, as is engaging with local universities and professional organizations to create a pipeline of qualified candidates. Additionally, offering recruitment incentives such as signing bonuses, relocation assistance, and loan forgiveness for hard-to-fill positions further enhances our appeal. These strategies collectively aim to attract and retain dedicated educators and staff committed to the success and well-being of our students.
I strongly believe that financial transparency and government accountability are essential for building trust and ensuring the effective use of public resources. Every taxpayer has the right to know how their money is spent, and officials have a responsibility to provide clear, accessible information about financial decisions. This includes open budgets, regular reporting, and making financial data understandable to all citizens. Government accountability should be upheld through high ethical standards, regular independent audits, responsiveness to public inquiries, and clear consequences for misconduct. By prioritizing these principles, we can ensure responsible management of public resources and foster trust and civic engagement.
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See also
2024 Elections
External links
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Candidate Polk County Public Schools school board District 4 |
Personal |
Footnotes
- ↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on July 22, 2024
- ↑ Polk County Election Supervisor, "Candidates," accessed August 26, 2016, and October 10, 2016
- ↑ Polk County Supervisor of Elections, "2016 General Election," accessed November 16, 2016
- ↑ Polk County Election Supervisor, "Candidates," accessed August 26, 2016
