Hello! My name is Paula Sanford-Dunford, candidate for Greenbrier County Board of Education on May 10, 2022.
I graduated in 1991 from Greenbrier West High School, and attended Concord College and studied elementary education. I was a Nanny for 6 years in Lewisburg. I worked for Walmart for 14 years as the 1 hour Photo Center Manager. I then worked in the Greenbrier County Clerks office where I was head of elections for 5 years. Currently I work for the Sheriff as a tax deputy clerk in the Rupert Office. My husband Steve Dunford and I have been married for 15 years.
I’ve worked with children my whole life. While in college I worked with the We Care program, which helps young children and their families reach their full potential, regardless of their abilities or circumstances. I’ve also been a Girl Scout leader, Sunday school teacher, AWANA Leader and was head of Vacation Bible school for many years. My passion has always been children. No matter where they come from. No matter how they learn.
This decision to run did not come without a lot of thought, prayer and discussion with my family and closest friends. As a mother of two daughters who graduated from the Greenbrier County School District, and one who currently still attends, I believe our current administration is made up of kind and compassionate individuals. They have been nothing but professional with my daughters and my family. However, I also believe it is time for new voices, new faces and new ideas. I believe that it is time to take a stand for ALL students regardless of who they are, where they live, and how they learn.
It is time to listen to teachers. As the mother of an educator, I see first-hand the steps every teacher takes to provide a safe, supportive, and engaging classroom for their students. Their hard work is usually unnoticed and under-appreciated. Teachers are the foundation within our educational structure. I wish to be an advocate and to magnify their voices in our school district.
I stand with our parents as well! It should be their choice on whether or not you want your child to wear a mask or not. I also believe the same way about vaccines for COVID. It should be left up to the parents of our students. I am a conservative who believes strongly that parents know their children best.
It is time to put respect and honor back in the classroom. It’s time to take drugs, violence, bullying, and sexual assault out of our schools. I believe it’s time for accountability.
I can tell you the struggles of raising a child with ADHD and the obstacles she has faced within her own educational journey. She didn’t fit in. She was labeled. She struggled to learn, and be met in an environment that was least restrictive for her. If elected, I promise to be an advocate for children across the county just like my own daughter.
Our daughter is a work in progress and she will overcome.
Our story is just one of many. Students all over the county are struggling with educational inequality, and hardships. I want to be their voice. Throughout my own journey, I’ve spoken to many students and parents who are heartbroken, confused, and are unsure of what to do. I’m here to help you. I’m here to listen. I’m here to be your voice.
Thank you for your support and the opportunity to work alongside the members of a great community. I look forward to serving you and your families. I would appreciate your vote on May 10th!
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