Florida
Highlands County School Board Race Highlights Parental Rights and District Finances
Florida’s Highland County school board election District 4 overview The post Former principal takes on incumbent in Highlands County School Board District 4 race appeared first on The Florida Trib.
Last updated:
Key points
- Incumbent Reese Martin is seeking reelection to the Highlands County District 4 School Board, emphasizing parental rights, traditional values, and teacher autonomy.
- Challenger Hilary Hathaway, a former principal and district finance director, is running on fiscal stewardship and student achievement.
- The race reflects broader Florida discussions on local district budgeting, teacher compensation, and curriculum oversight.
NewsWK — As school board elections approach across Florida, voters in Highlands County are preparing to choose between an incumbent focused on parental rights and traditional values, and a former school administrator bringing financial experience to the race.
According to a report first published by The Florida Trib, incumbent Reese Martin is facing a challenge from former middle school principal Hilary Hathaway for the District 4 seat.
Incumbent Focuses on Parental Voice and Classroom Autonomy
Martin, an agricultural consultant married to a public school teacher, is seeking a second term on the board. He initially sought office following community concerns over how sexual education was being taught in local schools.
“I joined the fight to ensure that our parents and community had a voice and to uphold the traditional values that make Highlands County exceptional,” Martin said in an email statement to The Florida Trib.
Highlighting key concerns facing Florida public schools, Martin identified low teacher morale, compensation, and rising healthcare costs as top priorities. He called for granting teachers greater autonomy in the classroom and involving them directly in district curriculum decisions.
Challenger Emphasizes Fiscal Responsibility
Hathaway, who served as principal at Lake Placid Middle School and most recently worked as the director of finance for neighboring Hardee County Schools, stepped down from her administrative role to focus on her family business and the campaign.
In a statement posted to social media, Hathaway framed her candidacy around student achievement and fiscal discipline.
“By supporting educators, maintaining responsible fiscal stewardship, and advancing policies that prioritize student success, we can help every child reach their full potential,” Hathaway stated.
Campaign Finance and Local Backing
State campaign finance records show Hathaway leading in overall fundraising with $15,250 raised as of early June, primarily through self-funding. Martin raised $2,800, drawing backing from local agricultural and land development businesses, including Mid-State Ranch and RCS Excavation, alongside personal contributions.
This article was produced with the assistance of AI and reviewed by our editorial team.
Based on reporting by Kayla Winn | Bowie State University originally published by The Florida Trib. Read the original story.
