To achieve excellence, Oak Ridge must continue to support our outstanding school system, as well as higher education. Charlie pledges to continue his strong support for our schools, a major asset for our community. He was involved when the high school renovation was being completed and is proud of his part in this project. He also was the major City Government player in the securing of a donation of $500,000 from the City to aid in completing the most recent facility at Roane State. In addition to providing more options for local college students, the expansion also enabled Oak Ridge Schools to partner with RSCC and create a path for our students, through dual enrollment, to obtain an Associate's degree while still in high school.

Excellence also requires being mindful of debt and property taxes; expenditures should always be viewed through a lens of return on investment.

Charlie strongly respects citizens' right to know what is going on, and encourages citizen participation as it makes our City stronger.