Editor, Gazette-Journal:

I am a retired educator who was blessed with 44 gratifying and rewarding years working with young people, mainly as a fifth grade science teacher. Thirty-nine of those years were served in Gloucester County; seven at Gloucester Middle School and 32 at Petsworth Elementary. It was a privilege to interact with thousands of students and their parents.

One of my most memorable parents is Mrs. Anita Parker. I enjoyed teaching two of her three sons in the Grade 4/5 Multiage Program which existed at Petsworth from 1996 to 2009. During the creation of our science/math lab, Mrs. Parker graciously donated her time to assist me with what could be tedious chores such as labeling items for our inventory.

Her dedication and devotion were evident to me then as they have been throughout her 16 years serving Gloucester County as the Petsworth representative on our school board. During that time, she has performed admirably in a number of roles, including chair and vice chair. Her ultimate goal in all her various capacities has been for the betterment and welfare of all our students.

Mrs. Parker is not, as the old saying goes, “resting on her laurels.” She is a forward-looking leader with both eyes on the futures of our youngest generations. She believes our school system should invest in both college prep and career technical education so as not to use “cookie-cutter” strategies and organizational methods. She applauds the efforts to bring enhanced broadband access for all, including the Petsworth District where there is an acute need.

Experience, compassion, zeal and dedication are notable qualities possessed by Mrs. Anita Parker, a woman of strong convictions willing to fight for what she believes to be best for Gloucester students. As a “Proud, Positive & Productive” Petsworth Patriot, I heartily endorse her to continue to represent my district on the Gloucester County School Board.

Preston Higgins
Harcum, Va.