Sylvia Covington said she is seeking reelection to the Newport Independent Schools Board of Education because she wants to continue working with educators, families and community members to support students in the district.
Covington is a graduate of Newport Independent Schools and said her connection to the district has contributed to her investment in its future.
Covington faces Ramona Malone and Benjamin Middendorf in the Nov. 3 general election.
“I believe that every child deserves a high-quality education, and I am motivated by the opportunity to shape policies that provide students with the resources, support and environment they need to thrive,” Covington said.
Covington said collaboration among parents, educators, administrators and community members is important to addressing challenges facing the district. She also wants families and students to feel represented in decisions made by the school board.
If reelected, Covington said her first priority would be investing in teachers. She wants Newport’s teacher pay scales to be competitive with surrounding school districts as part of efforts to recruit and retain educators.
Covington said she also wants to support new teachers and work toward having a faculty that reflects the district’s student population.
She said she plans to remain involved outside of board meetings by attending school events and supporting students and teachers. Covington said her overall goal is to ensure students have the resources and support needed to graduate and succeed after leaving Newport schools.