More
Join

Seaberg seeks first full 4-year term on Manassas City School Board

Suzanne Westre Seaberg is running to keep her seat on the Manassas City School Board. 
Seaberg was appointed to the Board in June following the resignation of Ellen Purdy.
 
We sent a questionnaire to Seaberg, and her responses are below: 

Find your polling place 

PL: What are the top three major issues facing Manassas residents?

Seaberg: Community engagement, school environment, advancing student success.

PL: What concrete solutions do you propose to address these issues?

Seaberg: We can foster communication, engagement and leadership in the community with clear and accessible information, additional outreach measures to the families that need it most, and continually working to build more leaders that are representative of our community.

Expand the culture of caring with programming throughout the division to foster positive mental health for our students and staff and to elevate respect for self and others.

Expose all students to a variety of career opportunities. Expand CTE options for students and working partnerships with businesses through internships and externships.

Build the community’s confidence and trust by listening, responding, demonstrating fiscal responsibility, accountability and transparency while working toward positive solutions.

PL: From your perspective, what is the job description of the office you’re seeking?

Seaberg: As a school board member, I bring a unique perspective to a seven-member team. We work together to set policy, approve a budget, and evaluate the superintendent. Overall, I am an objective and collaborative decision-maker. I balance the needs of community stakeholders while remaining focused on serving the children in our Manassas City Schools family.

PL: What expertise will you bring to the office?

Seaberg: Seventeen years of business experience (primarily escrow officer) and 15 years of volunteer experience in our community and our schools.
 
PL: Do you feel that the average citizen is well informed and understands the workings of the Manassas City School Board? If not, how do you intend on improving communication with your constituency? 
 
Seaberg: In our information-rich society, our citizens want to be well-informed and have quick access to the information they seek. Communication can be improved with clear, complete, and accessible information online or via text. Some of this is currently available/possible and improvements are underway for mobile-friendly access. Some of our citizens may benefit from specialized parent advocacy groups, and efforts should be continued so that ALL families feel included and welcome in our schools and our city. There are many that desire to understand the processes of our local government. I am actively promoting citizen participation in the MCPS Parent and Community Leadership Academy that provides information and builds an understanding of the workings of our local government. Just another opportunity to consider how one can take a role in affecting positive change in the City of Manassas. Additionally, everyone with a student in our schools may wish to download the Manassas City Public Schools App on your mobile device (if you haven’t already) to stay informed of news, events, and your student’s grades.
 
PL: Have you ever made any mistakes in your public life? How have they affected you?
 
Seaberg: “A person who never made a mistake, never tried anything new” ~ Albert Einstein. I am appreciative of experiences I have had in my volunteer roles along the way that have built my philosophy to consider decisions on behalf of all children in our schools and not just for the children in my home, or the families on my street. Although I have been a school board member for only three months, I am prepared and understanding new ways to be effective. Of course, there will be “learning opportunities” along the way, but I am committed to this role and the success of our schools. I love our City and the people in it. If elected, I will be honored to serve in this way for the next four years.
 
PL: Our readers want leaders in local government. Why should they vote for you?
 
Seaberg: I ask for your consideration in electing me to the School Board for a full four-year term based on my belief in the importance of a strong public school system, my extensive years of volunteer experience in our schools and community at large, and my advocacy of high expectations for all students.

Read more Project: Election 2016 candidate profiles.

Author

Recent Stories

Prince William County Historic Property of the Week: Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre

Nestled in the heart of Prince William County, the Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history of the region.

Read more →

“Mommy! Mommy! I Missed You!” – Latoya Crabbe’s Tearful Reunion with Her Children Four Months After Being Jailed

Latoya Crabbe, the Manasas woman accused of shooting and killing her estranged husband, Curtis Crabbed,  was released from jail on Friday, February 21, 2025.

Read more →

Today: Prince William County to Hold Virtual Meeting on Proposed FY2026 Budget

Prince William County residents are invited to participate in a virtual community meeting on Saturday, February 22, 2025, from 9 a.m. to noon to discuss the Proposed Fiscal Year 2026 Budget.

Read more →

Three Sisters Looking for a Forever Home at Stafford County Animal Shelter

Three loving feline sisters are looking for a new home at the Stafford County Animal Shelter. Abigail, Tabatha, and Fantasia, all 9-years-old, were recently surrendered through no fault of their…

Read more →

A Night on the Riviera: A Mardi Gras Celebration in DC!

By: French American Chamber Commerce

A Night on the Riviera

Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!

Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.

For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.

Read More

Submit your own Community Post here.

Enjoy the French tradition! Celebrate Galette des Rois with us on January 25th.

By: French American Chamber Commerce

Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?

On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??

But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.

What’s in store:

Read More

Submit your own Community Post here.

More Stories
Ă—

Subscribe to our mailing list