Dove remains undecided

By Italia Gregory

The Farmville Herald

Longtime Prince Edward County school board member and board Chairman Russell L. Dove says he’s not sure if he’ll reapply to represent the Buffalo District on the county’s school board.

The terms of Dove and Leigh District Representative Dr. Timothy Corbett expire on June 30. Corbett is seeking another term on the board.

Dove has served on the school board for almost 15 years, and Corbett is completing his first four-year term.

Members of the school board are appointed by the board of supervisors. The board has established citizen committees to receive applications and interview prospective candidates. A public hearing was set for Tuesday, March 8, at 7:30 p.m. for supervisors to receive citizen nominations for the two seats.

“Over the years, I have enhanced my knowledge of the issues and honed my skills, which I feel would continue to benefit the schools,” Dove said. “However, this past year has been somewhat challenging due to a work-related obligation and a personal issue. Therefore, I have not reached a definitive conclusion in regards to seeking another term, and I’m consulting with my family, friends, fellow board members, but ultimately, my decision will rest with the guidance of the Highest Power.”

Members of the Leigh District Committee include Sarah Edmendson, chair, Cynthia Johnson, Manuel Ortiz and Supervisor Jerry R. Townsend.

Member’s for the Buffalo District Committee include Alix Fink, chair, Maurice Finney, Sarah Hardy, Melanie Holman and Marshall Thackston.

Corbett said he has always held a particular interest in public schools and improving the school system. “I have already re-applied to be back on the school board again,” he said.

County Administrator Wade Bartlett said while the citizen committee will be responsible for accepting the applicants, they would not recommend a candidate to the board of supervisors, noting that supervisors are responsible for appointing individuals to the school board.

The process of appointing an individual to the school board spans from January-June, when supervisors are set to make the appointments.

In April, the committees will report a list of candidates for consideration to supervisors, offering biographical information on each applicant.

“We have several different opportunities to provide input to the board of supervisors,” Bartlett said. “All of the board members vote on each school board seat.”

Dove said he looks forward to working with Longwood University President W. Reveley Taylor IV and Prince Edward’s Commonwealth Attorney Megan Clark in the process of identifying candidates to serve as the next superintendent of Prince Edward’s schools.

“Recently, I’m becoming increasingly dismayed by some individuals who appear to be more focused on self-serving tactics and concerning political antics versus doing what is best for our schools,” Dove said. “However, I remain very committed to my alma mater and that commitment will weigh heavy on my decision.”