Lateacia Sessoms is a candidate for Portsmouth School Board. Her name will appear on the ballot on November 5, 2024.
Sessoms is running against six challengers for Portsmouth School Board.
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.
Name: Lateacia Sessoms
Age: 42
Website: www.Lateaciasessoms.com
Biography: I am Lateacia Sessoms, a wife and the proud mother of two cool boys. As a dedicated counselor and educator, I am deeply rooted in the great city of Portsmouth. With a Master’s degree in Urban Education Community Counseling from Norfolk State University, I have committed myself to uplifting our community through various roles and initiatives.
In my daily life, I strive to embody the spirit of our vibrant Portsmouth community, representing its values. Whether I’m walking through our neighborhoods, attending community events, or working with local organizations, my goal is to foster unity and progress that reflect our city’s essence.
Professionally, I am a licensed professional counselor and a certified substance abuse counselor, as well as a play therapist, board-certified human service practitioner, certified sexual offender treatment practitioner, and certified trauma specialist. I have also founded several businesses in Portsmouth aimed at helping others in our community. Additionally, I have the honor of teaching at Old Dominion University, where I shape the minds of future leaders.
Why are you running for this office?
As a parent of a 2022 Churchland High School graduate, a resident of Portsmouth, a business owner, an educator, a licensed mental health professional, and a community advocate, I have a strong commitment to the future of public education. I am deeply concerned about the obstacles our students face, and I want to actively contribute to the school board to drive meaningful improvements. I believe that by working collaboratively with educators, parents, and community members, we can create a supportive environment that fosters student success and addresses the critical issues in our schools. My background in mental health also equips me to advocate for the well-being of students, ensuring they receive the support they need to thrive both academically and emotionally.
What is the top challenge facing Portsmouth Public Schools, and how would you address it?
A comprehensive study has highlighted that the primary challenge facing Portsmouth Public Schools is staff compensation and retention. Fair compensation is crucial for attracting and retaining skilled educators, who play a vital role in our educational success. When teachers feel undervalued or financially strained, it can lead to high turnover rates, disrupting the learning environment and negatively impacting student outcomes.
To address this issue, I would advocate for implementing the findings of this study to assess staff salaries and benefits, ensuring they are competitive with neighboring districts. Furthermore, I would support professional development programs that empower educators and enhance their skills. By fostering a supportive work environment and recognizing the dedication of our teachers, we can improve retention and create a more stable, effective learning atmosphere for our students.
How do you feel about the politicization of public education?
Politics should not interfere with education. I firmly believe in equity within public education. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s the school board’s responsibility to ensure that resources are available for every student to receive the support they need to succeed individually.
How will you still value constituents with whom you disagree with?
While I may not always agree with everyone, I believe that every opinion should be respected and valued. As engaged citizens, we each have unique perspectives and contributions that can enrich our discussions and decision-making.
What is your view on the Governor’s Executive Order to ban cell phone use?
Portsmouth Public Schools has long had cell phone restrictions in place, and the governor’s policy simply reinforces those guidelines. This is a sensitive issue that requires input from parents, staff, students, and community partners to develop a thoughtful and effective approach.