Each month, we'll be featuring school board members in an effort to learn more about the wonderful individuals serving on our boards!

Larry Patterson began serving on the Lee County school board in 1988. At a young age he found himself eager to help others and curious about all the ways he could do so. His curiosity lead him down a path to serving public schoolchildren for 34 years and counting! Larry has earned more than 760 training hours and served on eight AASB Committees. 

Read below to learn more about Larry!

Q: What is your current occupation? If retired, what did you do before?

A: I am a former ALFA insurance agent, and I’ve been retired for three years now.

Q: What inspired you to join the school board?

A: I can go back to as early as elementary school for my inspiration. At that time, with segregated schools, I would only see one person of a different race around the school, and I became curious about him. I later found out that he was a superintendent. I learned about what that superintendent was doing and decided I would want to serve the community in a similar way. Another source of inspiration was my 9th grade teacher who told me that I could go on to make a difference in people's lives. I ran for the school board in 1988 and was able to serve with the same man who inspired me! I've always had a desire for service, and I can honestly say serving kids is my passion. God first, family and kids! 

Q: What is your favorite part about being a school board member?

A: Making a difference in a child’s life and people’s lives in general. Not only are you dealing with children, but support staff, teachers, administrators and so many others! When you can make a positive impact in your community, you are also helping improve other places these individuals might go. 

Q: What’s one thing you’ve learned since becoming a board member?

A: It takes a team! Board members are policymakers, not day-to-day operations handlers. They make sure that schools have policies in place to assist educators and administrators in running the school smoothly. 

Q: Is there anything you are particularly proud of accomplishing as a board member (i.e., new initiatives or special projects…)?

A: I have been a part of the board for 34 years, so I am proud of many things! We have created and seen success in many different initiatives. One thing in particular that stands out to me is advancements in technology. Technology has been a major component in making sure all students have the same opportunities no matter which school they attend!

Q: What is one piece of advice you would share with an incoming board member?

A:  Get all the training you can! Be engaged with AASB. Learn the do's and don’ts before assuming. Make sure you have a legal counsel. AASB has been a true guide with plenty of trainings and conferences to attend.

Q: What are some of your hobbies?

A: Ministry. I have been in ministry for almost 28 years! It is a true passion of mine. I love people and enjoy spending time with family and friends I've gained over the years.

Q: Is there a fun or interesting fact you would like to share about yourself?

A: My wife has been a great asset to my success. She is always by my side, and even though she is not a school board member, she is a strong advocate for the success of children. She is constantly reminding me of my purpose. I am grateful to have had her as my partner for over 50 years!

Q: Do you have a favorite inspirational quote you can share with us?

A: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." - Philippians 4:13

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