Zais joins superintendent of education race

The Republican race for state superintendent of education got its third candidate today, as Newberry College president Mick Zais announced his intention to run for the office. He’ll be facing off against Furman University professor Brent Nelsen and Dutch Fork High School teacher Kelly Payne.

In his statement, Zais said, “After much thought and prayer with my family, and with strong words of encouragement from Republican activists, business leaders and education professionals, I am proud to announce I am a Republican candidate for the office of state superintendent of education. We have some superb public schools in South Carolina –- but more can be done to ensure that every child in our state has access to an excellent school, is led by an excellent principal and is taught by an excellent teacher.

“Every child is special and every child learns differently. Parents must be empowered to have a choice in the educational environment of their child. Strong incentives for teachers in our public schools must be employed to retain as many excellent teachers as possible. Principals must receive world-class training so they can lead, inspire and motivate their teaching staff. Legislators, district superintendents and school boards must ensure that taxpayer dollars are being spent on items that affect educational outcomes and these expenditures must be transparent to the public.

“This campaign will be a marathon and not a sprint. We face many challenges in education, but we can and we will overcome them. My leadership ability, experience in education and proven results of improvement qualify me as the best candidate for the office of state superintendent of education. I look forward to sharing my optimistic vision for education with all South Carolinians in the months ahead.”