Vanessa Lucas is a Breckinridge County school board member
Please share why you decided to run for your local school board.
To be quite honest I decided to run for school board because there were several things happening within our school system that I thought shouldn't be happening. The 16-year board member that I ran against as far as I could tell never questioned the superintendent’s motives on anything. If they said they wanted something done a certain way he just voted for it. I don't think that anyone should do that. I have no problem going to our superintendent and having one of my "Come to Jesus talks" and asking questions of him if I feel it is warranted.
What is your favorite thing about serving on your local board?
Right now, my favorite thing has been seeing two much needed new elementary schools built. Our vocational school having an overhaul and now seeing the work that is currently taking place to revamp our high school and moving our softball and baseball fields to our school property.
What activities do you enjoy doing outside your board work?
I enjoy making cakes and cookies and yes, bourbon balls for anyone who wants or needs them. I like helping the granddaughters bake. We have three granddaughters that are playing softball right now. Two are on travel teams. I love spending the weekend at the ballpark with the softball family.
Name someone in your life you admire, or who inspired or helped you along the way.
I think that would have to be my husband Ralph (even though I wouldn't tell him). I know there have been times when I have decided to do something and he has been pretty sure he didn't want me to do it, but very few times has he said anything negative. It doesn't upset him if there is nothing for supper when he gets home or if he has to wash a load or two of clothes, because I am off doing something that I feel I need to do or just because I want to do something.
Name a book/magazine/website/publication/etc. that you would recommend to other school board members.
"The Art of School Boarding"
Please share something about yourself that most people may not know.
I have volunteered for 20 or more years with the American Cancer Society to put on the Relay for Life in Breckinridge Co. I have been chairperson, survivor dinner coordinator and luminary chairperson. I think my most favorite job is working with the luminaries. Seeing that track lit up with over 1,500 luminaries in honor or memory of loves ones just takes my breath away.