Lisa Parsons

Lisa Parsons, a personal fitness instructor for the online Florida Virtual School, announced Thursday that she will seek the District 3 seat being vacated by Smith."My husband and I have thought about moving, but we have made the decision to stay here," Parsons said."With my children in the schools, I feel I have a critical interest in the public schools."I want to ensure safe, caring schools for our children."Parsons and her husband, Greg, have been in Putnam County since 1990 after she graduated from the University of South Alabama with a bachelor's degree in physical education-health K-12.She later took courses in early childhood and elementary education from St. Leo's College, and received her Master's endorsement in adapted physical education.Parsons said she had to take only four courses to get her Master's endorsement rather then normal full load.Her teaching career here has included stints at Kelley Smith Elementary School (1990-91, P.E., K-5), Beasley Middle (1991-95, P.E. 6-8), Interlachen Elementary (1995-98, P.E., K-5) and Interlachen Elementary (1998-2003, P.E., K-5) before beginning her present job in 2003.Parsons lists the following for professional involvement and awards: SACS committee chairperson, School Improvement Team, Initiated Elementary Physical Education Teachers Collaboration, IES Parent-Teacher Organization President 2001-02, PTO Chaplain 2002-03, Fund-raiser Coordinator, Teacher of the Year Interlachen Elementary 1998-99, Rotary Service Above Self Award 1999.Her husband of 17 years, Greg, is the curator of the World War II Museum at Camp Blanding.The Parsons have three children, David, 15, a student at Palatka High School; Steven, 10, and Emily, 8, both of whom are students at Kelley Smith Elementary.A native of Bessemer, Ala., Parsons is a member of First Baptist Church and is involved with Palatka High School Musical Theatre as a supporter-volunteer, and is on the PHS Advisory Committee.

11 Dee & Loren Goodall, Melissa Parsons