Anissa M. Bowden is a candidate for Virginia Beach School Board – District 4. Her name will appear on the ballot on November 5, 2024.
Bowden is running against Alveta J. Green and Shannon L. Kendrick for Virginia Beach School Board – District 4. A Special Election is being held on Nov. 5 to fill the vacancy in District 4.
The first day of in-person early voting at your local registrar’s office for this election is Friday, Sept. 20, 2024. Click here to see who is on your ballot.
10 On Your Side reached out to all of the candidates running in this race, with a request for a bio and a list of questions to answer. If you do not see the candidate listed with a profile, we did not receive one.
Biography: Anissa Bowden has a rich background in education and community service. Born and raised in Norfolk, Virginia, she graduated from Old Dominion University with a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and began her teaching career with Chesapeake Public Schools in 1992 as an English educator. In 2000, she earned a Master’s degree in Educational Administration also from Old Dominion University, and she furthered her studies by graduating from Chesapeake’s Leadership Institute in 2008. Later that summer she served as the Assistant Principal for Summer School for Greenbrier Middle School – Grade 7. A longtime resident of Virginia Beach for more than 25 years, she has actively contributed to her community in various roles, including serving as an Election official, PTA Vice President, and Civic league Secretary, & Vice President. Her extensive experiences highlight her dedication to both education and community involvement.
Why are you running for this office?
My decision to run for school board is deeply connected to two things: being a retired educator with thirty years of experience and a mom who cares deeply about the well-being of not only my child, but all students attending our schools. Parents bring valuable insights and firsthand experiences to the table, which can lead to more effective and empathetic decision-making. My unique perspective on the challenges faced by students can be a powerful asset in addressing their needs and improving the educational environment.
What is the top challenge facing Virginia Beach City Public Schools, and how would you address it?
I believe the most pressing issue facing Virginia Beach City Schools is that of intolerance which can show up as not respecting the differences of others due to racial, gender, or sexual preference. Many in our community were shocked to learn that one of our high school baseball teams had its season suspended due to the alleged racial harassment of an African American teammate by his fellow teammates. The rest of us in the Black community were not surprised as we live this reality each day; unfortunately, most incidents go unreported and unknown by school administration.
As the next school board member, I commit to working tirelessly to address bullying and harassment in our schools by supporting Social Emotional Learning lessons, expanding counseling services and creating spacing and experiences where students feel included and supported. We must provide teachers with professional development on recognizing, addressing, fostering inclusivity, and supporting students’ individuality.
How do you feel about the politicization of public education?
The politicization of public education is quite disheartening; it is my belief that ideally, school board members should focus on working collaboratively to improve educational outcomes and the needs of students. When politics overshadow these priorities, it can hinder the effectiveness of the work of school board members. Focusing on shared goals and fostering a cooperative approach would mitigate some of the challenges and better serve our constituents.
What is your view on banning certain books from school libraries?
I am advocating for the idea that while parents should have the right to decide what their own children read, this should not extend to my child. I do not need help parenting my child. Thanks, but not thanks. Your parenting rights shouldn’t extend to restricting my child’s access to reading what I deem appropriate.
Within the last year, the Kempsville High School baseball team was forced to forfeit the season due to racism allegations. How would you ensure there is not a racist culture within schools?
It’s crucial that schools take a strong stance against bullying and harassment, particularly when it involves racial slurs. Virginia Beach will start an anti-harassment system during sporting activities called EPIC, but more effective disciplinary measures should be enforced to address such behavior and support victims. Our schools must create a safe environment where students feel empowered to report bullying and are confident that their concerns will be taken seriously. Implementing comprehensive anti-bullying student and staff policies and providing resources for both students and staff can help protect vulnerable individuals and foster a more inclusive and respectful school community.
How will you still value constituents with whom you disagree with?
To value constituents with whom I disagree, I would engage with them respectfully, listening actively to their perspectives, and seek to understand their viewpoints. This involves respectful dialogue, acknowledging their concerns, and finding common ground where possible. Ultimately, this approach fosters mutual respect and promotes collaborative solutions to challenges.