Karen Carson named Tennessee PTA's Outstanding School Board Member

The Tennessee Congress of Parents and Teachers has recognized Knox County Board of Education Chair Karen Carson as the Tennessee PTA's Outstanding School Board Member for her dedication to the welfare and education of children."I thought it was a tremendous honor," Carson said. "Although it's an individual award, I see it as a reflection of the workings of the entire school board."During her 15-year involvement with PTA, Carson has held various offices on the local, council and state levels, including local president, council president and council health and safety chair. She is currently serving as the Tennessee PTA health and safety chairperson. According to the nomination letter provided by the Knox County Council PTA Carson has always exhibited poise, professionalism and grace under pressure. The group attributes this to her many years of PTA training and experience. In addition to holding offices, Carson has been an active participant at Knox County Council PTA events, as well as local unit events. She is also the school board representative to the Teacher Supply Depot, a joint venture between the Knox County Council PTA and Knox County Schools. "Parent involvement is essential in educating our children," Carson said. "PTA is a great vehicle to coordinate that involvement. "The Knox County Council PTA credits Carson with bringing the need for parental engagement back to the fore front of its agenda, and with being instrumental in helping the school system bring in experts in engaging families with the message to all families, parents and educators that parents need to be full partners in their children's academic career.
Carson, who represents Knox County's fifth district, was elected to her first term with the school board in Sept. 2004. Two years later, in2006, she was elected chair of the Board of Education.

Congratulations Karen!!