Biography: Dr. Jaclyn Walker is a dedicated educator and community leader with over 22 years of experience in education, including 11 years with Portsmouth Public Schools (PPS). She has held various impactful roles, including serving as the Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment for 18 private day schools that support students with special education needs. In addition, she is the Executive Director of a nonprofit organization focused on aiding incarcerated individuals and their families and co-owns an educational consulting firm with contracts throughout the state of Virginia.

Dr. Walker’s extensive educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Mass Communications, a Master of Education (M.Ed.), an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree, and a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) degree. Her academic achievements and professional experiences have equipped her with the expertise and passion necessary to drive positive change in the education system.

A proud graduate of I.C. Norcom High School, Dr. Walker’s deep connection to the Portsmouth community fuels her commitment to advocating for educational equity. Her platform emphasizes the need for fair compensation for teachers, robust professional development, and creating supportive work environments. She is particularly focused on ensuring that students who are neurodiverse or require special education services receive the resources they need to thrive. Dr. Walker’s campaign for the Portsmouth School Board is rooted in her desire to leverage her experience and dedication to create a better future for students, teachers, and families in Portsmouth.

What is the top challenge facing Portsmouth Public Schools, and how would you address it?

The top challenge facing Portsmouth Public Schools (PPS) is attracting and retaining high-quality educators by addressing salary disparities and enhancing job satisfaction. While PPS has made progress with a 7% raise, it’s essential to ensure all staff are correctly placed on the appropriate salary step, reflecting their experience and dedication. Beyond compensation, fostering a supportive and positive work environment is crucial. Implementing “stay surveys” to regularly gather feedback from teachers will help us understand their needs and ensure they feel valued, leading to better retention and overall success for both educators and students.

How do you feel about the politicization of public education?

The politicization of public education is a significant concern because it can divert focus from the primary goal of educating our children. Public education should be a space where all students have the opportunity to learn and thrive without the influence of political agendas. I believe in making decisions based on what is best for the students, teachers, and the community, guided by evidence-based practices rather than political motivations. It’s essential to keep the focus on students’ academic, social, and emotional development while fostering a safe and supportive environment for all.

Why are you running for this office?

I am running for office driven by a deep passion and purpose to enhance current efforts in Portsmouth Public Schools and bring new initiatives to further our students’ success. With 22 years of experience in education and personal experiences that have profoundly impacted my family, I am deeply committed to educational equity. My platform ensures that every student, especially those who are neurodiverse or require special education, has access to the resources they need to thrive. I am dedicated to supporting our teachers through fair compensation, professional development, and creating a positive work environment where they feel valued. Additionally, I advocate for initiatives like Parent University to empower parents in their child’s educational journey. My goal is to bring my experience, dedication, and a strong, compassionate voice to the School Board, enhancing our schools and introducing new initiatives that will help both students and educators thrive.

How will you still value constituents with whom you disagree with?

I believe that respectful dialogue and active listening are the cornerstones of effective leadership. Even when I disagree with constituents, I will make it a priority to hear their concerns and understand their perspectives. I am committed to representing all voices in our community, and I value diverse opinions as they can lead to better decision-making. My approach will always be one of collaboration, seeking common ground, and finding solutions that benefit our students and the community as a whole.

What is your view on the Governor’s Executive Order to ban cell phone use?

The Governor’s Executive Order to ban cell phone use in schools is a mandate that the School Board is required to follow, and as such, we must ensure compliance with this directive. While the intention behind the ban is to reduce distractions and enhance the educational environment, it is crucial to implement this policy in a way that also considers the practical realities of our schools.