Fridley Public Schools recognized longtime School Board member Carol Thornton at her final Board meeting on December 21, 2021. Holding a historic leadership position within the district, Thornton was the first African American to serve on the Fridley School Board. She was first appointed to the Board in September 2016 and re-elected by the Fridley community in 2017.

“Carol brought a valuable lens and understanding of the impact of mental health and social emotional wellness with her professional experience as a mental health therapist and case manager,” said Superintendent Dr. Kim Hiel. “Her constant calmness and composed demeanor has benefitted the Board and has allowed her to help students in many different ways. She's been a great asset to the Board and will be truly missed.”

According to Board Chair Donna Prewedo, Thornton has been a valuable advocate for students and offered important perspectives over the years of her tenure. “She’s been a tremendous asset to the Board and entire community,” said Prewedo. “She always has a positive attitude that came with a great lens. We wholeheartedly thank Carol for her years of service and unwavering support for the students, staff, families, and community at Fridley Public Schools.”

As a former Stevenson Elementary parent, Thornton was a dedicated and frequent parent volunteer. The position on the Board allowed Thornton to selflessly contribute to her passion for education while supporting the academic journeys of students and families served.

“I welcomed the chance to be a voice for students and families,” said Thornton. “It’s been a great honor to serve as a Board member and to be a part of a community that deeply cares and supports its staff, students, and families.”

During her tenure, Thornton was a Board representative at SEE (Schools for Equity in Education) where she was elected and served as President of SEE’s Executive Board in 2019-2021. Thornton said that involvement in the SEE organization was a highlight, as she learned more and became immersed in the work of advocating for equity in school funding.

“I’ve enjoyed visiting the Minnesota State Capitol to meet legislators and discuss issues that are important in our community and schools,” she said, adding that other highlights included seeing Fridley students prosper, grow, and succeed.

“I’ve loved learning from students - whether they presented to the Board on projects at school, giving back to the community through service, or sharing their backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. It’s been wonderful to see the many smiling faces of students and celebrate their accomplishments with them as they progress through their academic journey.”

Looking back, Thornton is appreciative of the opportunity to have served the Fridley community in this capacity.

“The most rewarding part of being a Board member has included the relationships I’ve built and the knowledge I have gained from serving,” she said. “I thank the Fridley community who entrusted me to contribute my experience and knowledge to support Fridley Public Schools’ core mission of preparing students both academically and emotionally for the future.”