Honors U.S. History & the Constitution Class

After a semester of hard work and the EOC exam, we would wind down the classes with games like ping pong, art, talent showcasing, final "thank you's" to students, well wishes, and "so longs".

Forty-five years ago, I arrived in this country from the West Indies with a heart full of hope and a deep belief in the American Dream. I didn’t come with a title or a political pedigree; I came with the values my parents instilled in me: a love for God, a respect for hard work, and the understanding that education is the key that unlocks every door.

My journey as an immigrant has defined how I see our community. I chose South Carolina, and specifically Richland County, because I saw a place where families look out for one another and where faith is the cornerstone of our lives. I’ve lived the beauty of the American Dream, working my way from entry-level roles into the financial boardrooms of Merrill Lynch and the halls of legal consulting. But I’ve also seen that for too many of our neighbors, that dream is feeling further and further out of reach.

I am running for the State House because I believe that listening to the people is the only way to protect the prosperity and peace of our neighborhoods.

For our Children: The Promise of Education

As a teacher in Richland School District Two, I see the brilliance in our children every day. But I also see a system that is struggling. I know what it’s like to work hard to give your children a better life. It breaks my heart to see people who ensure their own children have every advantage of elite private education while voting to keep your children in schools that are ranked near the bottom of the nation. I believe quality education shouldn’t be a luxury for the few, it should be a reality for every child in District 78.

For our Families: Keeping Life Affordable

We have all felt the squeeze lately. Whether it’s rising property taxes or the cost of insurance, it is getting harder for hardworking families to get ahead. My background in finance isn’t just a line on a resume; it is a tool I will use to protect your family budget. I’m reporting for duty to be a watchdog for your tax dollars, ensuring that the system works for you, not the other way around. We deserve a representative who understands that a prosperous community starts with an affordable home.

For our Community: Safety and Peace

Our neighborhoods should be sanctuaries of peace. As a mother and a Christian, I believe we are called to be our brother’s keeper. That means ensuring our streets are safe, our seniors are protected, and our local businesses can thrive. I am committed to working with our community leaders to ensure that Richland County remains a place where families can grow and thrive for generations to come.

A Heart for Service

My life was nearly taken from me years ago by a sudden brain hemorrhage. I had to relearn how to walk, talk, and read. That experience didn't just teach me resilience; it taught me that every day is a gift from God intended for service. I am not a career politician looking for a promotion. I am a neighbor, a teacher, and a fellow believer who is ready to roll up my sleeves and do the hard work of making our district the best place in South Carolina to call home.

I am Sonia Pollard, and I am asking for your trust and your vote. Let’s build a future for Richland County that is safe, prosperous, and full of opportunity for everyone.

Sonia's Fight: A Story of Resilience

To understand Sonia Pollard, you have to understand her resilience. In 1995, Sonia’s life changed in an instant. A sudden, massive brain hemorrhage and stroke left her paralyzed and unable to speak.

But Sonia didn’t give up. Through faith and an arduous recovery process, she had to relearn everything: how to walk, how to speak, and how to read. She fought to rebuild her life from the ground up.

This is why Sonia is so committed to our students and families. She knows what it feels like to struggle when the odds are against you. She brings that same "fi ght-to-the-fi nish" spirit to the State House. Whether it’s recovering from a health crisis or helping South Carolina recover from low national rankings, Sonia Pollard doesn't back down. She is a solutionist who knows that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.