Teresa Scarmack

Biography for Teresa M. Scarmack. Candidate for Ohio State Senate District 20 Family and education are central in the life of Teresa McGraner Scarmack, democratic candidate for the 20th Ohio Senate. Teresa is committed to addressing quality of life issues impacting the lives of Ohio families, especially those in central and southeast Ohio.

Her entry into the political arena is driven by an unfading sense of fair-mindedness and a passion to do good for others, especially children. Emphasizing early education and lifelong learning are priorities in her effort to strengthen families and disrupt the cycle of poverty all too common throughout the 20th district.  The Senate district includes Guernsey, Muskingum, Morgan, Hocking, Fairfield and parts of Athens and Pickaway counties.

In considering the best interests of her constituents, Teresa will vigorously advocate for the most sensible, humane and just solutions and she will sponsor the most appropriate initiatives.  Teresa is committed to being a strong voice in the region for employment opportunities, sustainable economic development, law and order, public safety, senior rights and environmental stewardship.

Family influences have been instrumental in shaping Teresa into an energetic, contributing member of her community and a proud Ohioan.  Born and raised in Athens County by hard-working parents, Teresa was blessed with supportive grandparents, aunts and uncles who helped prepare her for a career of service to others. 

Paternal grandparents, Elva and Marie McGraner, brought up a family of four in The Plains, Ohio.  Elva worked for McBee’s in Athens while Marie was a devoted homemaker.  Maternal grandparents, Francis and Mary Robinson raised ten children on Sugar Creek in Athens County.  Francis passed away when Teresa’s mother was ten years old, compelling her grandmother to raise the children on her own.

Teresa’s father, Richard McGraner, was employed by McBee’s and the Columbus and Southern Ohio Electric Company. Her mother, Dana, worked for Ohio University as a cook at Baker Center and an office assistant in the student financial aid and admissions offices. 

Teresa knows first hand why it’s important for residents of the 20th Senate District to have access to quality health care.  Teresa’s sister, Patricia Barrington was a beloved teacher and guidance counselor in the Athens City Schools, until a 20-month struggle against colon cancer recently ended her life at the age of 56.  Youngest sister, Kelee, is a registered nurse and so are a number of Teresa’s relatives.  

Teresa is married to Paul Scarmack, an Athens High School and Ohio University graduate. The couple lives in Logan, Ohio.  Teresa’s daughter, a registered nurse, resides in Lancaster with her husband and two children.

Teresa is a dedicated teacher who believes teachers should continue their education throughout their careers to remain current on research-based teaching trends and advancements. Teresa has steadily grown as a professional educator by continuing her education. She holds graduate degrees in Education from Marygrove College and Ohio University with an emphasis on special education.  Most recently, she has worked toward an advanced degree in Educational Administration.  

Teresa graduated from Athens High School and The Ohio State University, earning a BS in Education.  Following graduation she has taught for 23 years in the central Ohio area and tutored children with learning disabilities. Teresa has been teaching kindergarten in the Logan-Hocking School District since 1999.

Please send donations to:  The Committee to Elect Teresa McGraner Scarmack, Paul Scarmack, Treasurer, 218 Michelle Street, Logan, OH  43138

See the candidate's website at: teresaforohio.com