Editor, Gazette-Journal:

Effective leaders embody two essential qualities, trustworthiness and competence. Teachers are the classroom leaders that children recognize as capable and safe to lead them in the challenging process of learning.

Just as teachers and school administrators are entrusted to foster safe and effective learning environments, so, too, are our school board members. It is expected that they understand and deeply value the remarkable process of teaching and learning taking into account the current conditions and circumstances that impact the learning.

Given the current mental health and educational challenges caused by COVID-19, it is even more critical to have school board members such as Lorraine Forrest, who not only understand how these impacts affect children’s learning, but have demonstrated a commitment to supporting school-wide programs and policies that provide safe and healthy conditions for all children and families.

Butler KnightCobbs Creek, Va...