VOTE TOM HATCH
Experience. Leadership. Commitment.
My Mission
"Always Do What's Best for Every Kid"
"For more than three decades, I have believed that every decision in education should begin with one simple question: What is best for kids? My commitment is to ensure every child has access to a safe learning environment, exceptional teachers, and the opportunities they need to succeed. By working together with families, educators, and our community, we can build schools where every student is valued, challenged, and prepared for a successful future. I will always put students first and make decisions based on what is best for all children."
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- Tom Hatch
Why I'm Different.
After serving Cumberland County Schools for 32 years as a teacher, coach, assistant principal, and principal, I understand our district from the classroom to the boardroom. I have led schools, managed budgets, supported teachers, and worked with families to improve student outcomes.
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My experience provides the knowledge and perspective needed to make informed decisions on behalf of our students, educators, and taxpayers. I don't bring promises based on theory—I bring proven leadership, practical experience, and a lifelong commitment to strengthening public education in Cumberland County.
MY VALUES
His Experience.
Tom Hatch is a lifelong educator, community leader, and proud graduate of Terry Sanford High School who has dedicated his career to serving the students, families, and citizens of Cumberland County. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of North Carolina Wilmington and two master's degrees from Fayetteville State University in History Education and School Administration.
During his distinguished 32-year career with Cumberland County Schools, Tom served as a teacher, coach, assistant principal, and principal. His experience in public education has given him a deep understanding of what it takes to create safe schools, support outstanding teachers, and help every student reach their full potential.
Tom's commitment to service extends far beyond the classroom. He is an active member of First Baptist Church and the Kiwanis Club of Fayetteville. He currently serves as Chairman of the Fayetteville Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission, President of the Fayetteville Terry Sanford Alumni Association and is a member of the Communities In Schools Advisory Board, where he continues to advocate for opportunities that strengthen our schools and improve the quality of life throughout Cumberland County.
Fun Fact: While serving as principal of Terry Sanford High School, Tom completed a tandem parachute jump with the U.S. Army Golden Knights in October 2018, delivering the game ball into the stadium before kickoff—a memorable demonstration of his school spirit, enthusiasm, and willingness to embrace new challenges.
His Why.
Tom Hatch is running for the Cumberland County Board of Education At-Large because he believes every child deserves access to a high-quality public education and every school deserves experienced, principled leadership. After dedicating 32 years to Cumberland County Schools as a teacher, coach, assistant principal, and principal, Tom has firsthand knowledge of both the challenges facing our schools and the opportunities that lie ahead.
Throughout his career, Tom has worked alongside students, families, teachers, and community leaders to build strong schools where students can thrive. He understands that improving education requires thoughtful leadership, fiscal responsibility, collaboration, and a relentless focus on student success.
Tom is committed to strengthening academic achievement, supporting and retaining exceptional educators, promoting safe and welcoming learning environments, expanding opportunities for students, and ensuring taxpayer dollars are invested wisely to benefit classrooms.
His Goals.
Tom believes every child deserves the opportunity to attend a safe, caring, and achieving school. His vision is to ensure Cumberland County Schools remains a destination district where families choose public education because of its outstanding teachers, strong academic programs, and welcoming school communities.
He will advocate for competitive teacher and staff compensation to recruit and retain the very best educators. Tom will support policies that strengthen our public schools, expand high-quality public school choice opportunities, and ensure every classroom is a safe, orderly environment where students and teachers can focus on learning. He is committed to responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars, transparent decision-making, and putting students at the center of every decision.