Questions From 32963 Magazine — Responses From Kevin McDonald
Submitted April 6, 2024
Ray McNulty emailed questions to Kevin McDonald on April 5th for his upcoming article. You can read his article here. We promised to post Ray’s questions and Kevin’s answers for all to read. They are below.
Ray McNulty: “How do you believe being appointed by the governor to the District 5 seat impacts your campaign? Do you consider it an endorsement?”
Kevin McDonald: “Governor DeSantis is very popular in Florida and in Indian River, so it is an honor to have his faith in me and his name connected to my campaign.”
Ray McNulty: “Do you believe the governor made the correct decision in not allowing Brian Barefoot to return to his board seat, knowing Mr. Barefoot's resignation was an honest mistake made while trying to do the right thing -- an error that he immediately attempted to correct? If so, why? If not, why not?”
Kevin McDonald: “The laws seem to be clear on such resignations therefore, I do support the Governor’s actions under the law.”
Ray McNulty: “As a self-described "principled conservative," what are your thoughts on the governor and state Legislature increasingly intruding on local decision making in Florida's public school systems, dictating policy through new legislation and mandates from the Department of Education? Following up, what's your position on home rule in public education?”
Kevin McDonald: “Florida public school systems are mandated by our State Constitution and the Governor’s actions are consistent with that mandate.”
Ray McNulty: “In a related area, what are your thoughts on the governor's politicization of public education through his endorsement of school board candidates around the state and his targeting for electoral defeat school board incumbents seeking re-election -- both actions in violation of at least the spirit of the Florida constitution, which requires that such elections be nonpartisan?”
Kevin McDonald: “My opponent was endorsed to fill this appointment as “well connected long-time republican” by Mr Barefoot in your column.”
Ray McNulty: “Since the local Moms For Liberty chapter appears to be backing your run for the School Board, what are your thoughts on the group's agenda and tactics? Also, would you accept the Moms' endorsement if offered?”
Kevin McDonald: “I hope that, like my opponent who has asked for Mom’s For Liberty’s endorsement, that they and every group and every voter will endorse and vote for me.”
Ray McNulty: “How would you assess the performance of Superintendent David Moore and his cabinet since being hired to run the district? Do you see any reason his contract should not be allowed to roll over for another three years?”
Kevin McDonald: “No. I have met with Dr Moore and I am very impressed by him and his work on revitilizing our schools. I expect that my involvement will help him be even more successful in driving SDIRC to become #1 in the state.”
Ray McNulty: “Given your affiliation with a "classical Christian school" in New York, what is your position on re-introducing prayer into public schools?”
Kevin McDonald: “Florida Statute 1003.45: Board Policy 8800 stipulated that
“3) The principle of each public school shall require teachers in first-period classrooms in all grades to set aside at least one minute, but not more than 2 minutes, daily for a moment of silence”
As a public school, SDIR Parents should guide their children as to how to best to utilize the daily moment of silence which is currently provided.”