Former schoolteacher Carol Kent once served on the Richardson ISD school board, but now she serves as our neighborhood’s state representative. Here she tells us what that’s like, and gives us a glimpse at her likes, interests and family.

What’s the most interesting job you’ve ever held?
I truly love teaching. From Baylor University to St. Edward’s University to Richland College — my 17 years in the classroom were extremely gratifying. Challenging students to change and grow academically; watching them gain confidence and knowledge; and then launching them onto higher levels of learning — this is what makes teaching truly rewarding.

Did your work teaching help prepare you for politics?
Yes. In many ways the skills of a valued teacher are the same as a good public servant. You have to have measurable objectives that are achievable through strong communication skills, collaboration with colleagues, and true concern for the needs of others. It’s also interesting to note that teachers frequently attest that they learn as much from their students as their students learn from them. In the same way, good elected public officials continuously learn from their constituents and constantly try to develop methods that better serve their community and state.

Most memorable day during your tenure with the Texas House of Representatives?
Clearly, the most memorable day was Jan. 13, 2009 — the day we took our oath of office. That was an amazing and unforgettable experience.

Are there any specific issues now that neighbors seem to be particularly motivated about?
I know my constituents share a desire for excellent educational opportunities for their children — including public schools, post secondary training and higher education. In addition, our neighbors express concerns involving clean air, predatory lending, public safety, consumer protection and transportation needs for our region.

Do you have any hobbies or outside-of-work activities that you enjoy?
My dad instilled in me a passion for old cars — specifically Model “A” Fords. I still have a ‘30 “A” that is great fun to drive in the neighborhood Fourth of July parade and other area parades. It’s a two-seater with a rumble seat in the back and an old “ah-oo-gah” horn. One of my best memories is working under the hood with my dad. I really learned a lot about taking care of cars and, more importantly, forged a strong and meaningful relationship with my father.

What’s special about the neighborhood you represent?
I greatly enjoy visiting homeowners associations and crime watch groups, and learning about the concerns they have and the solutions they seek. I’ve learned there is not just one way to create a strong sense of neighborhood. Most of our neighborhoods have developed many of the same strategies of building community — through a commitment to safety and crime prevention, taking pride in our homes as well as our public spaces, reaching out to people in need, and supporting our children and youth through our schools.

Tell us a little bit about your family.
David and I have three terrific, grown children — each a graduate of Lake Highlands High School and Baylor University. Our oldest, John, married his college sweetheart, Kelly, and they live in Virginia. Meredith works at a local elementary school, and Robert, our youngest, is nearing completion of a 2,000-mile hike he began in July on the Appalachian Trail.

Your motto?
Do all the good you can, in all the ways you can, in all the time you can, for all the people you can.