Cabarrus County Schools Sample Ballot & Voter Guide 2026

Robert Kirk, a former school board member, holds a doctorate in education from Gardner-Webb University and has a diverse professional background including roles as a teacher, principal, and assistant superintendent with Cabarrus County Schools. He currently serves as the director for growth and expansion for Dream On 3, a non-profit, and actively volunteers with community organizations like the Rotary Club and Cannon

Pam Escobar is an incumbent at-large member of the Cabarrus County Schools school board, serving since 2022. A dedicated parent, former teacher, and journalist, she now works as a communications specialist and advocates for high-quality education for all students.

Priorities: Quality of kids' education · Teacher retention · Managing district's growth

Deborah Allen is a retired educator with over 30 years of experience, holding a Master's Degree and certifications in school administration and supervision. She taught special needs and general education, mentored new teachers, and was a chief building representative.

Priorities: Bring excitement back to learning · Restore trust with parents · Refocus schools on the classroom

Courtney Steinberg is a Democratic candidate running for an At-large seat on the Cabarrus County Schools school board, dedicated to public education and student welfare.

Priorities: Supporting public education · Protecting students · Ensuring schools remain inclusive, accountable, and community-focused

Bubba Hartsell is a Republican candidate for the Cabarrus County Schools Board of Education, a 4th-generation CCS graduate, and a father with children attending district schools. With over 12 years in education, including teaching Exceptional Children, he is also a real estate small business owner and a retired coach.

Priorities: Improved school safety with new policies and facilities to address overcrowding. · Ensure financial transparency and a balanced budget to responsibly manage taxpayer money. · Prioritize parental rights, community involvement, and academic growth through common-sense decision-making.

Amanda Wortman is a mother of five children, a public safety professional (Paramedic), and co-manages her family's commercial electrical business. Having lived in Cabarrus County for over 20 years, she is committed to ensuring every student receives a quality education and is prepared for real life.

Priorities: Securing resources and opportunities for every student, alongside empowering parents to actively engage in their children’s education. · Collaborating with legislators to address teacher pay, retention, and fostering a positive work environment. · Adopting a proactive approach to school safety by providing funds for live safety measures.

William Barbee is a small business owner and grandfather with a degree in Business Administration and certifications in Project and Construction Management. He leverages his background, including experience with a Fortune 100 company, to run for the Cabarrus County Schools Board of Education, focusing on budgeting, strategic planning, and accountability.

Priorities: Student readiness · Teacher support · Fiscal accountability

Mishell Williams is a certified teacher with a master's degree in literacy and a bachelor's in education. She has experience as an elementary school teacher, a tutor, and an English second language teacher, and is also a PTO board member and Cabarrus County Schools Parent Advisory Board member, advocating for all children.

Priorities: Advocating for the "Whole Child" and equitable, supportive education. · Partnering with parents for student success. · Championship for teachers and improvement of school facilities and resources.