Lake Highlands resident and 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.
What do you like about living in Lake Highlands?
The people. There’s a real “Our Town” — as in Thornton Wilder’s play — quality to Lake Highlands. We’re like a small town within a larger city — a close community where families come to live, raise their kids, and then send them out into the world. And because Lake Highlands has this strong sense of community, many of our children come right back to raise their own families, starting the entire cycle over again. I am always honored and humbled when the next generation comes home to work, to live, and to give back to our community. This is the Lake Highlands heritage … we came here for the neighborhood and schools. My husband and I wanted our children to attend public school, and we realized that Lake Highlands would offer the type of academic opportunities and community experiences we sought.
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. Economic development and providing tax relief for small business owners are also issues that stand out in Lake Highlands.
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.
Special causes you support outside of work?
Human trafficking is the second largest criminal industry in the world (after drug dealing, human trafficking is tied with the illegal arms industry) and is a growing problem here in the United States. It is hard to document the exact number of victims of human trafficking in the U.S., but estimates reach into the thousands of American children and youth who are lured into human trafficking every year. And it is indeed disheartening that Texas is fast becoming one of the major hubs of human trafficking. Children do not vote, so their voices too often go unheard. We need more advocates for some of our state’s most vulnerable children so that these atrocious crimes can be stopped.
What are your favorite places to hang out in our area?
Harry Moss Park. It’s a surprising and refreshing example of Texas Blackland Prairie within an urban setting. A walk in the park is a good reminder of a quieter and simpler era in our part of Texas.
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.
