News & Events

Happy Educators’ Day and Appreciation Week! You know how I always struggle with the words to share my appreciation for all of you as words are never enough. Also, if you’ve been around awhile, you’ve heard me share stories about my family of educators and how much that has developed into a deep appreciation for all that each of you do - every minute and every hour of every day.  Well, today, I want to share a new story, a story that represents all of you. Two weeks ago, I took the Oath to serve on Virginia’s Board of Education. Pictured are my family -

• Mom, my mentor, a teacher, principal, and dean.
• Dad, a high school teacher and professor.
• Older sister who has taught Family and Consumer Sciences, Art, and now teaches online.
• Younger sister, a reading specialist and President of Virginia State Literacy Association (VSLA).

Swearing me in is the Secretary of the Commonwealth, Kelly Gee, and the Secretary of Education, Amy Guidera. And of course there is my husband, who in addition to holding the book is always lifting me up.

A group of educators, my family, rallying beside me is the perfect picture of how much my career was shaped. And so, it is with each of you, as we rally around each other and shape each other’s careers.

It is because of the excellence of what each of you do every day that I was considered for this role on the board. I am overwhelmed with a grateful heart for being able to take what we have created at Rivermont Schools, what you each are teaching me, and use it as a voice for all children with special needs in Virginia. I want each of you to share in this celebration, and to finally get to see my family of educators.

Words are never enough – but THANK YOU for all you do!