Vote for the next School Board Representative
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On Tuesday, Mr. Henn will be voting for one of these people to be on the Virginia Beach School Board. The School Board is a group of elected citizens who decide how the school system spends its money, and what policies are implemented. These are the people with the power to create rules regarding the following:
how to spend money
class sizes
cell phone policies
book bans
school schedules and calendars
discipline policies
grading policies
teacher pay
a whole lot more that directly affects YOU.
You have a chance to weigh in on Mr. Henn's decision.
Read the profiles of the candidates for the open school board position.
Choose who you think Mr. Henn should vote for and submit the survey below.
Sharon Felton
Residence: Seatack
Age: 70
Occupation: Retired
Education: B.S. in History from Old Dominion University
Endorsements: Virginia Beach Education Association-PACE and Virginia Beach Democratic Committee
Website: sharonfelton.com
What are your specific qualifications for this office?
I bring two consecutive terms of experience as a Virginia Beach School Board member and a personal connection to the system as a product of our public schools. My children attended Virginia Beach schools, and my grandchildren are currently enrolled. I’ve witnessed the school system through its darkest hours and finest moments, giving me a unique insight into its challenges and opportunities. I have successfully worked with local, state, and federal lawmakers to advocate for the division. Most importantly, I am a community connector, committed to staying accessible and responsive to the needs of educators, families, and students.
What are your three main policy priorities for Virginia Beach schools?
Support Our Educators: I will advocate for competitive salaries, professional development, and the resources they need to provide high-quality education. By empowering our teachers and support staff, we create a strong foundation for student success every day.
Engage Families and Communities: I believe in the power of collaboration between schools and families. I will promote open communication channels, provide resources for parents to engage in their children’s education, and advocate for policies that support a healthy work-life balance. Together, we can build a supportive community that benefits every student every day.
Preparing Students for the Future: It is essential to ensure our students are prepared for life after graduation. Whether they choose to go to college, join the military, enter skilled trades, or directly join the workforce, I will advocate for diverse pathways and opportunities that help every student achieve their full potential every day.
Monty Ashliman
Residence: District 8
Age: 57
Occupation: CAVU International, Leadership and Safety Coach for high risk industry
Education: 32+ years of Active Duty service in the US Navy (Naval Aviation, Flew F-14 Tomcats and FA-18 Super Hornets); Bachelor of Science from the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland and a Master of Arts from the Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island.
Endorsements: American Veterans Vote, Students First VA and five sitting members of the Virginia Beach School Board.
Website: montyashliman.com
What are your specific qualifications for this office?
I have recently retired as a Navy Captain after over 32 years of Active Duty service and demonstrated, proven executive and combat leadership. My leadership background includes serving as a TOPGUN Instructor, the pinnacle of the Navy’s highest institute of learning; the Commanding Officer of a Strike-Fighter squadron responsible for 13 FA-18 Super Hornet aircraft and nearly 300 personnel; Commanding Officer of a major Navy installation, responsible for the well-being of 30,000 personnel, approximately 300 strike-fighter aircraft, significant budgets, and expansive facilities totaling over 800 million dollars in new construction. My entire career was based upon representing others, upholding the standards of a rigorous academic program, and collaborating with all stakeholders to ensure mission achievement. Here, that mission is Students First.
What are your three main policy priorities for Virginia Beach schools?
Putting Students First: I will promote the academic excellence of students, our future community leaders, so they do not continue to fall behind in important subjects such as reading and math. Students will meet the bar wherever it is set, so we should not lower our standards. Doing so is a disservice to them and our community. The Virginia Beach City Public Schools owe it to our students to best prepare them for the road ahead.
Parental Rights: Parental involvement is crucial to the continuation of student development, and open communication with parents is imperative. Students spend more time at home with parents than in school, which demands that schools and parents are in sync regarding the educational development of students. Additionally, parents should not be surprised by a decision made by the Virginia Beach City Public Schools on behalf of the student.
Supporting Teachers: We must attract and retain quality teachers who strongly desire to make a positive impact in the lives of their students. They must be given all the resources needed to effectively teach in their classrooms, and they must have the backing of School Administrations. Behavior problems negatively impact all students, so rules must be enforced.
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