Author: Potomac Local News

I have spent more than forty years working in education – including classroom teacher, administrator, district chief information officer, school board member, technology consultant, and founder of an online high school.  I had the pleasure of spending a couple of hours in a one-on-one meeting with Tracy talking about education. 

I asked her, “What is the single most significant factor in determining a student’s success in school?”  She responded, “The student’s home environment.”  According to the research – overwhelmingly the correct answer.  I then asked her what the biggest factor in the classroom was.  She replied, “Keeping the students engaged in learning.”  Right again.  Very impressive. Though these are the correct answers, they are not the answers you usually hear. 

Have you ever taught middle school?  Does the thought of it make you cringe? 

On a daily basis, there is an abundance of name calling, raging hormones, finger pointing, dirty tricks and excuses, excuses, excuses.  No, I’m not talking about Richmond politics – but I easily could be.

It is my pleasure to write this letter as a supporter of Justin Wilk, who is running for School Board in Prince William County. As a parent, I strongly support Justin because he was an amazing motivator that taught in our school district for six years. Justin Wilk was my daughter’s 7th grade Civics and Economics teacher, at Woodbridge Middle School, Woodbridge, VA.

Justin Wilk always displayed a unique style of teaching, which motivated his students, beyond the time they spent in his classroom. In addition to teaching in the classroom, Justin Wilk coached hundreds of students in track, football, and served as an advisor to the Drama Club, and is now a consultant. As a consultant; he has help administrators to promote transparency;  and improved community relations.  

I first met Justin when I attended Woodbridge Middle School in 2007.

Justin was my track coach throughout middle school and my Civics teacher in the 7th grade, when he became a close personal friend to my family and myself. Justin was able to teach me many things throughout my three years in middle school, whether it was in the classroom or on the track, but there was one thing specifically he said to me that I have never forgotten.

I write in strong support of Paul B. Ebert for our Commonwealth Attorney.

Mr. Ebert’s opponent is Mike May. How many criminal jury trials has Mr. May been lead counsel on? Is it 50 or none?

Voters in the Potomac Magisterial District have an important choice to make for their school board member. They can return Mrs. Covington to office or they can turn to Justin Wilk.

There are several reasons to support Mr. Wilk. I am probably one of the only voters in [the Potomac District] who had Mrs. Covington as a principal when I attended Dumfries Elementary, but later had Mr. Wilk as a teacher at Woodbridge Middle School. Both were outstanding educators, and cared deeply about their students.  I truly respect Mrs. Covington, but it’s time for a change.

I have known Betty Covington for more than 25 years. Betty has spent a lifetime serving the citizens and more importantly the children of Prince William County.

Her dedication, integrity, and professionalism are without a doubt the finest we have to offer our school children. Betty is an award winning educator who served as a teacher, assistant principal, principal and school board member. She has seen the Prince William County School system from all sides including that of a parent. All three of her children are products of Prince William County Schools.