SCHOOLS | I have been employed with the Newport News Public School since 2001 as a school based substitute, instructional assistant, ISS (In School Suspension) Coordinator, Homebound Instructor and Assistant Football Coach, Assistant Track Coach, Head Football Coach and have been serving as a professional School Counselor since 2005 on the elementary and secondary levels. Initiated leadership and mentorship programs for all educational levels through our PRIDE (Perfecting Responsible and Intelligent Demeanor Everyday) Group. In 2008, in collaboration with Dr. Terri Lorraine Best, former professional school counselor and current school board member the first elementary school age male leadership conference was successfully coordinated at Newsome Park Elementary School.

A priority is the continued partnership between Newport News City Council and Newport News Public Schools in implementing best practices to ensure our school system is FULLy funded. In addition I will continue to work in tandem with North District School Board representatives, Marvin Harris and Douglas Brown to ensure the best interest of our schools is pre-eminent. Equipping students with the necessary school supplies in the 2nd half of the school in the annual Re-Up School Supply Drive provides students with the tools needed to finish out the school year strong.

Ensuring that ALL students have the ability to be well-rounded by enhancing academic curricula with assorted arts and athletic programs.

SAFETY | The selection of a new Police Chief for the Newport News Police Department Chief Drew and the implementation of Chief Drew’s community based policing model has proven effective as noted in a reduction in crime in Newport News. Continued partnership with community-based programs, grassroots and non-profit organizations that are proactively working to eradicate crime will continue to be essential in the fight against violence in our communities.

The enhancement of our local Parks and Recreational programs that is inclusive of all ages, in the provision of invigorating activities will remain a priority. Ensuring that there is access and appropriate lighting to fields and courts throughout the city of Newport News will assist in these efforts. The opening of the first lit basketball court in the North District is only the beginning in our quest for community members to enjoy recreational activities in a safer environment. Continuing to highlight our Youth School and Community Leaders will assist in letting our community know the great things our youth are doing in Newport News. Ensuring that ALL citizens feel valued will continue to be my obligation.

SMALL/LOCAL BUSINESS | Providing resources for our local business community to develop and sustain in our City. Continuing to coordinate events such as our Social Media Small Business Mixer to provide local professionals an opportunity to network and gain valuable knowledge from our City’s Development Office on incentives, grants and opportunity zones for local businesses. Continuing to promote local businesses in our community with vendor opportunities and re-establishing our Councilman Corners with our local business partnerships. Highlighting our local businesses throughout the year will continue.

SENIORS | Promoting healthy and active living to create a more senior friendly environment. Continue to advocate for parks and recreational green spaces that are accessible to all populations. Sharing information with our seniors about the real estate tax exemptions that are available. Supporting and partnering with programs that provide services to empower our aging population.

ENLIGHTEN, EMPOWER & ENHANCE | Serve as a Member of the Host Committee for “Millennial Mixer” in partnership with other Millennial Leaders and Elected Officials in the area. The purpose of this endeavor is to provide awareness about entrepreneurship, opportunities for community involvement, local politics, education, financial literacy and much more in a non-traditional setting, in order to foster a productive and positive network with millennial community partners. #PRESSINGFORWARD2020

Ensuring that ALL students have the ability to be well-rounded by enhancing academic curricula with assorted arts and athletic programs.