The Tazewell County School Board has appointed Freddie Elswick to serve as the interim representative for the Northwestern District following the recent resignation of longtime school board member Donna Lawson Culbertson.
A proud alum of Richlands High School, Elswick also graduated from the University of Tennessee with a degree in economics. He currently serves as the General Manager of Ramey Automotive in Richlands, Virginia.
“I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity to serve the students, families, teachers, and staff of Tazewell County Public Schools. This community has given so much to me, and I see this as an opportunity to give something back. I take the responsibility seriously, and I’m looking forward to getting to work,” Elswick said.
Elswick and his wife, Katy, are proud parents of their daughter, Henley. Deeply rooted in the Richlands community, Elswick has dedicated much of his time to supporting local youth. His community involvement includes coaching football, baseball, and softball, serving on the Richlands Little League board, and helping create opportunities for young people. He also founded the Blue Tornado Touchdown Club, an organization dedicated to supporting Richlands athletics and the young athletes who represent their community.
Above all, Elswick has a deep love for his hometown and the people who call it home. He takes great pride in his Richlands roots and believes strongly in giving back to the community that helped shape his life. His passion for helping young people grow, succeed, and become responsible citizens is central to his desire to serve on the Tazewell County School Board.
“My priorities are pretty simple. I want every student in Tazewell County to have the opportunity to receive a quality education, and I want our teachers and staff to have the support and resources they need to be successful. I also believe in being responsible with taxpayer dollars, making thoughtful decisions, and always keeping what’s best for our students at the center of those decisions,” Elswick said.
Tazewell County Public Schools welcomes Elswick to the School Board and appreciates his willingness to serve the students, families, and communities of Tazewell County. Mr. Elswick was sworn in to office by Circuit Court Clerk Charity Hurst Thursday, October 28, 2026. His term expires December 31, 2027.
-TCPS-