- July 21, 2026
Dear Editor:
I appreciate Mr. Shapiro taking the time to share his opinion. While we disagree on some issues, I believe we both want the very best education for the children of Flagler County.
For 28 years, I had the privilege of teaching children in Flagler County. I encouraged my students to read because I know books can open minds, inspire dreams, and change lives. I also learned that children are most successful when schools and families work together.
I never saw parents as obstacles. I saw them as partners. If I couldn't reach a parent, I kept trying. I called grandparents, relatives, neighbors, or anyone who could help me make that connection because every child deserved adults working together on their behalf. That belief didn't end when I left the classroom.
It shaped how I served on the School Board, and it still guides me today. Florida has strengthened parental rights and transparency in education. Those principles aren't new to me. They reflect the way I taught throughout my career because I believe parents should always be informed, involved, and respected.
This has never been about preventing people from reading books. It has always been about ensuring that materials in our school libraries are age appropriate for the students they serve while respecting the important role parents play in their children's education and following Florida law.
Reasonable people will disagree on education policy, and I respect those differences. But looking back on my years as an educator, I've learned one simple truth: When parents and schools work together, children thrive. That's what I believed as a teacher, that's what guided me on the School Board, and that's what I believe today.
Jill Woolbright
Candidate for Flagler County School Board, District 1
