Meet Bette
Rooted in Luray, Committed to Our Community
Since 2009, my husband and I have made our home in Rileyville, building our house on the Shenandoah River – a place we love and are proud to call home. Now, I want to give back to the community that has welcomed us by serving on the School Board.
My life’s work has been about helping children succeed. I’m ready to put that experience to work for Luray.
On November 5, write in: Bette J. Schmidt for Luray School Board District 1.
“Our schools can only be as strong as the leadership behind them. I will bring experience, compassion, and common sense to the School Board – and always put students first.”
Bette J. Schmidt, LCSW, BCD (retired)
Candidate for Luray School Board (Write-In)
A Career Built on Helping Students Thrive
For over 30 years, I worked in public service as a social worker, teacher, counselor, and program developer. I spent much of my career with Arlington County Public Schools, where I helped design and operate an innovative alternative middle school program – the Pathways Program – that successfully supported students who might otherwise have been expelled. Thanks to this collaborative, individualized approach, we helped over 50 students turn their lives around, creating an inclusive, stable learning environment that still operates today.
In addition to my work in schools, I’ve served in healthcare, clinical social work, and family services, always advocating for children, families, and vulnerable communities. My experience working with children on the autism spectrum, students with learning differences, and families in crisis has given me a deep understanding of what works – and what doesn’t – when it comes to helping students succeed.
For Our Students, For Our Schools, For Our Future
Every Child Deserves a Pathway to Success
Too often, children who face challenges – whether behavioral, emotional, or academic – are left behind or pushed out of the system. I will advocate for inclusive, evidence-based programs that give every student the opportunity to succeed, with individualized support when needed.
Strong Support for Teachers and Staff
Our teachers are the backbone of our schools. We must ensure they receive the resources, professional development, and administrative support they need to thrive. I will champion policies that value our educators’ voices and well-being.
Partnership with Families
Parents and caregivers are our partners in education. I will promote transparent, respectful communication between the school board, school staff, and families, ensuring that every parent feels heard and involved in their child’s education.
Evidence-Based Solutions, Not Politics
Decisions should be guided by what research shows works for children – not politics or personal agendas. My background in clinical and macro social work has trained me to evaluate programs based on real outcomes and advocate for data-driven interventions.
Safe, Healthy, and Inclusive Schools
All children deserve to learn in a safe, welcoming environment that supports their emotional and social growth. I will prioritize policies that promote student well-being, mental health services, and inclusive practices for students of all backgrounds and abilities.
Endorsements
A special “THANK YOU” to those who have endorsed my candidacy for school board member for District 1 in Page County, VA.
I appreciate your vote of confidence and will do my best to provide for the needs of educating our youth. They are our future!
Organizations
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Elected Leaders
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Local Supporters
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