Kavonté Duckett Seeks Democratic Nomination for County At-Large Seat
A Heart for the Community
As a lifelong Fredericktonian, I was raised by a village of people that included my parents, extended family, friends, neighbors, teachers, mentors, and others who took interest in my well-being (many who are members of Asbury UMC). For me, they were the driving force that provided support (via transportation to events, funds when needed, moral guidance, and so much more), encouragement (through role models and exposing me to future possibilities), and accountability (by ensuring that I stayed on the right track and faced consequences when I didn’t).
With this type of support, I learned about the importance of community at an early age. Whether it was my involvement in the church on committees and as a speaker, participation in school via mentoring groups and after-school activities, or my role as a member of a large and active family, I was raised appreciating that we each have an obligation to contribute to our community’s success.
A graduate of Tuscarora High School and Frederick Community College (FCC), I was Tuscarora’s class president from ninth to eleventh grade and a member and president of the Necktie Club. At FCC, I was President of the Student Government Association and Student Representative on the Presidential Search Committee. I have served as Community Liaison for Delegate Carol Krimm and a member of the Frederick County Human Relations Commission. I am member of Hope Christian Fellowship Church and currently serve on the Board of Directors for United Democrats of Frederick County, Eliminating Achievement Gaps, and City Youth Matrix. I am also a member Mountain City Lodge # 382 and Road Knights Car Club.
A Mind for Progress
I feel strongly that we must prepare the next generation to lead. This includes attracting and retaining business owners and employees who will live and work in Frederick. I appreciate the fact that a local small business owner gave me the opportunity to earn an income and gain valuable experience that kept me in the community. I have been employed with the Gary L. Rollins Funeral Home since 2011 and that job prepared me for my current employment with Frederick County Public Schools in Human Resources.
A Voice for All People
It is important to put people before politics. This involves creating a space at the table for those who have traditionally been overlooked.
I have spent the last six years talking to people from across the county from various geographic locations, socio-economic levels, races, and generations. The issues that people have voiced the most are education, economics and addiction.
My platform includes:
- addressing educational needs via greater resources for teachers and more opportunities for students while attracting,
- retaining and developing young people via career-college readiness;
- strengthening the economy by growing the business sector, supporting local entrepreneurs, encouraging more vigorous job creation, and championing affordable housing, and
- fighting substance abuse problems by expanding access to treatment, increasing education for all stakeholders and supporting second chances.
Most importantly, I’m running because I care about our county and the issues that affect those that live here. I vow to not only listen to your concerns, but I will pass legislation that will address those concerns. I live by the quote, “If you’re not at the table, you’re on the menu.” I look forward to working with each area and neighborhood to implement effective changes while also building upon what is already working well in our community.