Andrew Cline is a Shelby County school board member
Please share why you decided to run for your local school board.
After serving on my kids' SBDM council, I determined that I was interested in having a broader understanding of the school district. Having 6 children all in the school system, I knew that my wife and I had years ahead of us, partnering with the school system. It was a pleasure to serve the elementary school, but I knew that I wanted to take part in governance to support the 7,300 students and the 1,000+ employees of the district.
What is your favorite thing about serving on your local board?
I love seeing milestones met by the students, whether it be performances in the classroom, on stage, or on the athletic fields and courts. But truly enjoy seeing it culminate all together on graduation day. I enjoy senior awards night when we hear more about what the seniors have planned for their futures.
What activities do you enjoy doing outside your board work?
Love to sing and play bass guitar while helping lead worship at church. I love sports of all types, but truly enjoy coaching high school athletes. Baseball, football, basketball and soccer all top my list of sports to watch, coach, and/or follow.
Name someone in your life you admire, or who inspired or helped you along the way.
My father, Howard E. Cline, passed away when I was entering the 9th grade. His death, while tragic and life changing for me and my family, also caused a tremendous amount of drive and determination in my life. His work ethic, his intellect, his leadership, coaching, and his systematic process for everything he did (as an engineer, father, youth sports coach) instilled in me qualities that would end up saving my education, my career, and my life. My loss at that age MADE me grow up and mature, focus, and drive to succeed.
Name a book/magazine/website/publication/etc. that you would recommend to other school board members.
Wall Street Journal
Please share something about yourself that most people may not know.
I played classical violin, trumpet, baritone, bass guitar; I've had dinner with Muhammed Ali, and breakfast with Ashley Judd; Taped ankles and treated injuries for Rex Chapman, Tony Delk, Jamal Mashburn, Walter McCarty, Cameron Mills, and more while they were at UK.