Dr. David Cash, Chairman & District 2
Number of years on the Iredell-Statesville Schools Board of Education: 11
Educational/professional background: Began at Monticello Elementary School; graduated from South Iredell High School; attended Pfeiffer College in Misenheimer, NC (received A.B. in chemistry/pre-medicine in 1976); attended UNC School of Medicine in Chapel Hill, NC (received M.D. in 1982); completed family practice residency at Roanoke Memorial Hospitals in Roanoke, VA in 1985; currently operates Statesville Family Practice
On why he chose to run for the board of education: As a lifelong resident of Iredell County (other than time away for my education) and a graduate of the Iredell County School System, I wanted to give something back to the community as a “thank you” to all the teachers and administrators who gave me support and encouragement during my formative years. As my own children started elementary school, I spent time as PTA president and subsequently became more involved in other activities at the schools. My wife, Diane, is an ESL teacher at Third Creek Elementary School, and our conversations at home commonly encompass school issues. School board activities certainly keep me focused on community affairs. As a family physician, I accept the necessity and challenge of the concepts of lifelong learning and continuous quality improvement. Even though I am not formally trained as an educator, I have profound respect for all those professionals who are in any way associated with the teaching of our young people. I love working with people, especially progressive thinkers, in ways that will enhance our community by contributing to the success of its citizens. For all the reasons listed, I have found my experience on the school board and very satisfying and rewarding.
What he believes is the biggest accomplishment of the school district since becoming a member of the board of education: Over the past several years, our school system has experienced many challenges and made remarkable progress. In my opinion, some of the major accomplishments are listed:
These accomplishments speak well to the motivation and untiring work of all our educators, students, parents, and community partners.
What he believes is the biggest challenge facing the school district:
- Tremendous population growth in all areas of our county creating strain on our existing facilities and intensifying pressure to build more;
- Compliance with federal and state laws requiring more services without the provision of funding;
- Continuing to educate and motivate the general public to support the programs which have helped our students achieve goals and recognize success in the classroom
What he has learned about the school district since becoming a board of education member: The most rewarding observation I’ve made since coming on the board is the remarkable teamwork displayed by our system’s educators in searching for, evaluating, and implementing programs designed to help all students achieve their maximum potential. After working several years on the school board, I know, without any doubt, that all decisions are made with the students’ best interests in mind.
One word he uses to describe himself: Authentic
Dr. Cash's favorite book: Currently it's Firing Back: How Great Leaders Rebound After a Disaster, by Jeffrey Sonnenfeld and Andrew Ward
Dr. Cash's favorite television show: Everybody Loves Raymond. I like this show because it brings out real issues seen in the extended family and allows us to laugh at some of our own absurdities. I really enjoy these characters’ abilities to often laugh at themselves. I think being able to laugh at one’s self shows strength of character. I love to laugh.
His favorite place to eat in Iredell County: Cracker Barrel
Something you may not know about Dr. Cash: I repeated my second year of medical school. That situation taught me many lessons which I truly value in my life. Humility, courage to persevere no matter what the obstacles, patience, accepting failure without defeat, and empathy to encourage others to maintain focus on their goals. Adversity strengthens character.
Dr. Cash's family: Wife, Diane (ESL teacher at Third Creek Elementary School); daughter, Lauren (physical therapy- Elon University and UNC-Chapel Hill); son, Brendan (construction- Forsyth Technical Community College); three dogs- Cassie, Chloe, and Smokey; and three cats- Opie, Shelley, and Milo
