Letter to the editor
If you have a child with a learning disability and live in Prince William County, you know that navigating the IEP process, under the best circumstances, can be overwhelming. If your situation gets complicated, the IEP process can simply take over your life. Every parent wants their child to have a stellar education, but what if you find out something much less is happening?
Enter Tracy Conroy, candidate for PWC School Board Chairman. For the last 3 1/2 years, Tracy had run a very successful Facebook page called Our Schools, that advocated for the children of PWCS and for transparency from PWCS. She wasn’t running for office, it was the furthest from her mind. She wanted the best educational opportunities for all children of Prince William, no matter their ability. Tracy contacted me, like she has countless other parents, and offered her insight and help. Tracy had nothing to gain by this except for her desire to obtain the best education possible for each of our students. Her advice and guidance was immeasurable.
Tracy Conroy has been steadfast in keeping the current PWC School Board accountable and demanding transparency. Why? Because Tracy knows that PWCS can do better! Tracy has championed many issues over the years, but a perfect example of an issue Tracy has brought to the public’s attention, through her Our Schools Facebook page, is PWCS’ list of Critical Unmet Needs. This list was compiled by PWCS staff, listing areas of critical needs within the school system. While the list was long and extensive, the bombshell it exposed was the critical staffing concerns within the Special Education Department.
It’s time for change. Tracy Conroy already has a proven track record that demonstrates her commitment to Prince William County Schools. She is the only candidate that attends school board meetings, has sat on budget committees spending countless hours combing through PWCS’ $1 billion budget, she has been one of the very few people that have stayed for School Board Budget Work Sessions that usually take place between midnight and 3:00am, has championed equal education for all students, demanded transparency, and held the School Board accountable. While Tracy’s opponents are, I’m sure, very nice men and want what’s best for our children too, Tracy Conroy already has a proven track record and she is already prepared for the position on day one. Her knowledge of the workings of PWCS is unbelievable.
Tracy Conroy believes in equal education for all. She believes that every Prince William School should be a “School of Excellence” while at the same time compensating our teachers in a way that they feel valued and proud to work for PWCS. This campaign is not about politics for Tracy, she’s not using this as a stepping stone for another political office; the Prince William County School Board is where she wants to be. She wants to serve our children, providing them a real “first class” education. Vote for Tracy Conroy this Tuesday November 3.
