Opinion
Residents of the 31st House District of VA (which includes parts of Dumfries, Dale City, Woodbridge, and Triangle in Prince William County, and Catlett, Calverton, and Casanova in southern Fauquier County) have an opportunity this year to elect an educator to the House of Delegates. Since only eight of our current delegates have a teaching background, the election of Sara Townsend would provide the much-needed addition of someone who has teaching experience and an interest in education policy.
Sara Townsend, a resident of Fauquier County, is a former teacher who is currently pursuing a PhD in Education Policy at George Mason University. One of her strong motivations to challenge Delegate Scott Lingamfelter for this seat is her desire to speak up for students, teachers, and parents in the decision-making body of Virginia. She recognizes the importance of prioritizing education and the proper balance of students and teachers in the classroom if children are expected to do their best and learn.
Her opponent, Mr. Lingamfelter, has proven again and again that he is no friend of public education. He has continually short-changed our students and our teachers by voting to cut millions in funding from education. Children who get a head start through attendance at preschool are known to perform at a higher level once they get into school. Yet Mr. Lingamfelter voted to cut pilot projects that would have evaluated universal preschool in Virginia.
We all understand the importance of learning to read in the early years of elementary school. Yet Mr. Lingamfelter voted to cut an early reading initiative that would have helped children become successful readers.
Ms. Townsend would protect and promote educational opportunities for our students and vote for budgets which would place education as a high priority – something that her opponent has failed to do. This is why we need her in Richmond as a member of the General Assembly. I hope you will join me in November in supporting Sara Townsend for House of Delegates.
