Letter: Covington supports disadvantaged children, understands teachers

Letter to the editor 

Prince William County Residents will be heading to the polls in November to choose their School Board Members for the next term. For anyone that truly cares about all children, the choice is clear: Betty D. Covington, School Board Member for the Potomac District.

I have had the privilege of working with Mrs. Covington as a teacher for sixteen years while she was the principal of Kilby Elementary and as an Associate Superintendent while she served on the School Board. I observed firsthand her dedication to and tireless efforts on behalf of the teachers, students, and parents of Prince William County.

Mrs. Covington has always been a supporter of teachers. She has fought for and voted for teacher salaries and benefit packages for the past 12 years.

On March 28, 2012, Mrs. Covington voted for a Board Motion which increased teacher salaries. Her opponent has mentioned this motion but unfortunately he has neglected to include that while the motion had other components, most importantly it contained an increase in teacher salaries.

She has spent most of her adult life being a relentless advocate for education, children and families. As a former teacher and principal, she truly understands the demands placed on teachers and school staff each and every day.

Mrs. Covington is passionate about the students under her care. I have seen her “light up” as she interacts with a young child in a school. At any given time, you may see her reading to students, attending a Back to School Night, or visiting a special program.

She has always been a proponent of early childhood education as illustrated by her long time support of Head Start and her votes for full day kindergarten and for additional preschool classes.

As a School Board Member, she is often involved in issues surrounding students. She never rushes to judgment when confronted with these issues. She takes the time to evaluate the situation, examines all sides of the issue and ultimately makes decisions based on what is best for children. 

Providing all students with an excellent education and a variety of learning and extra-curricular opportunities has been a priority for her as a Board Member. Her support and leadership has helped expand specialty school opportunities, increase advanced learning offerings to include the Governor’s School at Innovation Park, and expand career and technical education classes for not only students in the Potomac District but for all students in Prince William County.

Mrs. Covington has been a supporter of families and has been a strong voice for parents. She is always looking for ways to make life easier for parents and families. As an Associate Superintendent, I remember Mrs. Covington calling me and wanting to ensure that the Dumfries Elementary students received the summer breakfast and lunch program which was available for qualified schools.

Just recently, Mrs. Covington voted to keep the new “Ferlazzo” Elementary School a neighborhood school, rather than, a school of choice. Mrs. Covington has contacted churches and community organizations to partner with schools to provide food, clothing, and school supplies. She has continuously supported the STAR program housed at Forest Park High School which refurbishes computers and gives them to disadvantaged families. Mrs. Covington has personally helped many families in their time of need. She is a caring experienced leader who exemplifies what it means to be a public servant.

At the end of the day, based on the examples sited and many more, Betty D. Covington is the best choice for the Potomac District School Board seat.