Samuel Boone Jr. is a candidate for Chesapeake School Board. His name will appear on the ballot on November 5, 2024.
Boone Jr., who was elected to the Chesapeake School Board in May of 2012 and re-elected in 2016 and 2020, is running against nine challengers for Chesapeake 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: Samuel L. Boone, Jr.
Age: 53
Biography: Mr. Samuel L. Boone, Jr. was elected to the Chesapeake School Board in May of 2012 and re-elected in 2016 and 2020. Samuel L. Boone Jr. is a native of Portsmouth, Virginia, where he was raised by nurturing parents, Samuel Boone, Sr., and Janet Boone. He graduated from Manor High School in 1990 and, in 1995, earned a B.A. in Political Science from Norfolk State University. Now retired, Boone served the Virginia State Police with distinction for 25 years as a recruiter and Master Trooper. He was appointed by Governor Youngkin in April 2022 to serve as the Vice-Chair of the Virginia Parole Board. He is a faithful member of First Baptist Church South Hill. Boone is an active member of the Special Education Advisory Committee, board member of Educational Services of Hampton Roads, and a member of the ECPI Criminal Justice Board. He is also a member of the Virginia State Police Association. On September 11, 2001, Boone was called as a First Responder to the attack on the Pentagon. He was there within hours and spent three weeks there assisting the Red Cross, protecting the site, and was an eyewitness to the terrible injuries and loss of life. Boone is happily married to Zarmeta Boone and they are proud parents of twin boys, Leon and Sammy, who attend Chesapeake Public Schools.
Why are you running for this office?
As a member of Chesapeake School Board since 2012, I have been passionate about issues concerning our students and the school system. I believe strongly in the importance of a quality education. Our schools are the foundation of our community, and I am committed to advocating for policies and initiatives that provide all students with the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. I am dedicated about fostering an environment where every child can thrive, and where our educators and staff are supported in their vital work.
What is the top challenge facing Chesapeake Public Schools, and how would you address it?
The top challenge facing Chesapeake Public Schools is recruiting and retaining high-quality teachers. The best way to address the issue would be to make the profession more attractive with better pay, more support, and less pressure from political issues.
How do you feel about the politicization of public education?
I do not like the politicization of public education. Too many politicians on the state and national level who know nothing about the needs of teachers are making rules and requirements that are driving quality candidates away from the field of education.
How will you still value constituents with whom you disagree with?
I will always value constitutes I do not agree with on issues. I encourage their input before making decisions. This information gives me a better idea of what matters to others. My goal will always be to look for common ground on issues and build a relationship based on trust and respect.