@bett_on_betty Yesterday reminded me exactly why I’m in this race. We didn’t just host a Family Meet & Greet, we created a space where voices were heard, stories were shared, and truth showed up in real time. I had the joy of spending time with our children—listening, laughing, and learning from them. Their creativity, honesty, and excitement are exactly why we must get this right. But I also heard from parents and voters: We talked about access: ➡️ Homeschool families asking how their children can participate in extracurriculars, athletics, music, gifted programs, and special education services. ➡️ Parents wanting clear pathways for transitioning from homeschooling into public schools. We talked about communication: ➡️ Families who don’t know who to call, where to go, or how to navigate curriculum questions and opportunities. ➡️ Parents asking for stronger, clearer communication, especially for those facing language and cultural barriers. We talked about representation and belonging: ➡️ Concerns about the lack of diversity among teachers and staff. ➡️ A call for meaningful training, cultural awareness, and schools that recognize that one size does not fit all. And we talked about accountability in education: One conversation I will never forget was with a voter who shared that he graduated reading at a 6th-grade level. He told me he felt pushed through the system—not prepared by it. He challenged me directly: “When you are elected, make sure every child who graduates is truly ready.” We also had real, necessary conversations about special education— ➡️ Are students with IEPs being supported or sidelined? ➡️ Are expectations high enough? ➡️ Are we preparing every child for college, careers, trades, or military service? This work is personal and professional for me. With over 40 years of combined experience as a special education teacher, middle school assistant principal, and special education coordinator, I have seen both what works …and where we must do better. I have worked alongside families navigating the system. I have supported students with IEPs. And I have held schools accountable for outcomes. I know what it takes to move from good intentions to real results. Here’s what I know: Every student should be known. Every student should be valued. Every student should be truly future ready. That means: No child slipping through the cracks No family left without answers No student defined by limitations instead of possibilities It means building a system where: ✔️ Communication is clear ✔️ Access is equitable ✔️ Diversity is reflected and respected ✔️ Expectations are high—for every child To the children who showed up with smiles and creativity… To the parents who spoke with honesty and courage… To the voters who challenged me to do better… And to all of those who Bett on Betty for creating the space for these conversations… Thank you. This campaign is not about me. It’s about us, and the future we are building together. Together, we will ensure that no child is overlooked, no voice is ignored, and no future is left unprepared. Together… WE WILL WIN DISTRICT 10. 🎉 #virginiabeachschoolboard #VirginiaBeach #educationmatters #election #schoolboard
♬ Walking Around – Instrumental Version – Eldar Kedem 
