“The most important thing I have that my opponents don’t have is experience. I have over 35 years’  experience as a teacher, or administrator, with the last seven years as assistant superintendent. I have been here and know the things our system faces in the future. I was here during the tough proration years, and I’ve seen what it takes to work through those tough times while at the same time continuing to lead the staff and students in a positive direction.”

With that in mind, Donald Borden is facing off with Johnny Cleveland for the Democratic nomination in the Franklin County Schools superintendent race.

Borden, who is currently the assistant superintendent of Franklin County Schools, said education has been his life.

“The Franklin County school system is very important to me,” he said. “I want to lead this system into the future and be a positive influence in the lives of our staff and students and make sure our students are college- or career-ready when they graduate.”

When it comes to the skills he brings to the position, Borden puts the emphasis on his many years of experience.

“It is rare for an educator to serve in every position from classroom teacher, to assistant principal, to principal, to assistant superintendent. I am confident that my educational background and vast range of experiences will be beneficial in the demanding role of superintendent,” Borden said.

Issues Borden hopes to address if elected center on college and career readiness for Franklin County students.

“I have visions and plans to improve the system and guide our students toward college- and/or

career readiness,” he said. He also aims toward “an increased focus on dual-enrollment classes, improved test scores, career tech opportunities and communication among the staff, students, community and

business leaders of Franklin County.”

“Our technology opportunities must be expanded, and we must work toward making our schools more safe and secure. We must do this while making sure we stay on stable financial ground and spending our money in a responsible manner,” Borden added.

To succeed as superintendent, Borden said the person in the role “must be able to communicate with the faculty, staff and students to understand the needs and concerns of everyone. The superintendent also must be one who can make timely decisions, and one who can make responsible financial decisions while providing the schools with the things they need,” he added.

Borden is married to Jean Borden, and they have three children – Alicia Cooper, Allison Saint and Brett Borden – and six grandchildren.

Borden said he enjoys playing golf and spending time with family – especially his grandchildren – and is involved in the Franklin County Cattlemen’s Association and Russellville Kiwanis Club. He is a member of the Gravel Hill Church of Christ.