BRUNSWICK COUNTY — A special called meeting Monday from the Brunswick County School Board ended with a new member at the dais.
READ MORE: Brunswick County Board of Education member passes away
Catherine Cooke, who won the district 2 primary race at the beginning of the month, was chosen by the county’s GOP to fulfill Robinson’s term after his unexpected death last month — a week away from the primaries. Robinson was the incumbent in the Republican primary race, who championed Brunswick County and its educational leaders for shaping “the future for the next generation of Brunswick kids.”
Robinson took over Cooke’s seat in 2020, after she served the school board for 12 years. Cooke was sworn in by Judge Pauline Hankins, who welcomed her back.
“Catherine, I’m happy that you’re able to come back to the school board,” Hankins said ahead of administering the oath, as the board and Cooke’s family looked on. “I expect even greater things … and ask God to strengthen you and focus you.”
Cooke told PCD in January in her election questionnaire that her main concern returning to the dais was to “ensure that the gaps in education since COVID are addressed and long-term success is gained for all students.”
In addition to facing off against Robinson, Cooke was running against Republican Rick Hessman. She won the March 5 Primary Election with 41.8% of the vote.
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