August 2, 2017
What They Are Saying:
"Ed Gillespie will be a strong education governor for Virginia"
Honorary Policy Chair and former governor George Allen: "Ed Gillespie will be a strong education governor for Virginia. That's important, because I believe that education and public safety are the top two responsibilities of state government. And, the best way to pay for these priorities is with a vibrant economy. Ed's education plan recognizes the need to innovatively provide better opportunities for young people to learn core academic subjects as well as skills to ultimately gain good paying jobs. And, there's no backsliding from the principles of accountability: What gets measured, gets better. And, when Governor Gillespie delivers on his promise of access for every child to an excellent education, the student and Virginia will grow and thrive."
Speaker Bill Howell: "Virginia should be first in the nation when it comes to educational opportunities for our children. Education is the foundation to fuel prosperity and growth. We owe every child the opportunity to attend an excellent public school. Ed will work every day to make that happen."
Policy Leadership Team Co-Chair Speaker-designee Kirk Cox: "As a retired teacher, lawmaker and parent I know that Virginia will be better off thanks to Ed Gillespie's education policies. I look forward to working alongside Ed, Jill Vogel and John Adams to advance student-centered policies for Virginia."
Policy Leadership Team Co-Chair Senator Mark Obenshain: "I've worked for years to advance high-quality public charter schools for our underserved communities. The McAuliffe-Northam Administration continues to stand in the way of any meaningful progress for Virginia's children. Ed Gillespie will be a strong partner to get things done for Virginia's kids."
Education Working Group Co-Chair Delegate Dave LaRock: "I am proud to support Ed Gillespie's plan to get Virginia back to number one in education. That means bringing innovation to education, rewarding excellence and celebrating teachers. Ed will be a governor for ALL Virginians."
Chairman of the Senate Education and Health Committee Senator Steve Newman: "Virginia needs Ed Gillespie's leadership to strengthen our K-12 education system. The focus of Ed's plan is on students' outcomes and parental choice. Ed understands that strong and motivated teachers are good for Virginia's education system and our local schools. Ed and will ensure Virginia students receive an education tailored to their needs, so that every child is most likely to succeed."
Education Working Group Co-Chair Delegate Tag Greason: "Education is the key to unlocking Virginia's full potential, and Ed Gillespie is the leader we need to keep moving forward. His comprehensive Education plan will help all Virginia Students succeed, allowing for more personalized learning and individual student growth."
House Education Committee Chairman Delegate Steve Landes: "The House of Delegates Education Committee has taken great strides to advance teacher leadership, innovation, more opportunities and excellence for Virginia's children. Ed's plan is thoughtful, creative and student-centered."
House Appropriations K-12 Subcommittee Chairman Delegate Jimmie Massie: "Virginia needs a governor who is willing to fight for our children and inject innovation into our K-12 education system. Ed's plan strikes the right balance between accountability and flexibility. Opportunities for Virginia's children will be much better because of Ed Gillespie's education policies."
Delegate and Retired Teacher Dickie Bell: "As a retired teacher, I am delighted to support Ed's agenda for Virginia's students. Teachers across the Commonwealth will benefit from an education system that rewards innovation. I am proud to support Ed and his vision for education."
Former President of the Virginia State Board of Education Chris Braunlich: "Ed Gillespie understands that every parent wants their child's education to lead them to a good job and a bright future, and every child in Virginia deserves the best education we can give them. Ed's education plan embraces innovations that will improve children's educational outcomes, powers teachers to excellence, and meets the needs of an increasingly diverse Virginia."
Chesapeake School Board Member Sam Boone: "As a school board member in Chesapeake, I work hard every day to ensure Virginia's children receive the best education possible. I'm proud to support Ed's agenda and look forward to having a strong partner in the governor's office in Ed Gillespie."
Harrisonburg City School Board Member Kaylene Seigle: "Ed is dedicated to providing an excellent education for all Virginia students. I'm proud to support Ed in his run for governor. He will make things better for Virginia parents, students, teachers and school leaders - Ed is the best choice for education."
Teacher Leslie Lenhert: "I appreciate the fact Ed has taken the time to listen to teachers to determine how they can be supported in the classroom. He is dedicated to putting forth policies to address the needs of ALL students."
Education Advocate Antione Green: "Ed Gillespie's heart for children and opportunity is what drives him every day. I applaud Ed for his strong leadership and big ideas. This plan is good for families, students, teachers and school leaders. Ed will be a strong governor for Virginia."