Margie Lucas for FXBG School Board 2023

11/11/2023

I want to thank everyone for their support and votes this election. I highly encourage you to reach out and meet the newly elected school board officials and share your concerns with them. Good luck City of FXBG schools!

10/21/2023

I am often asked why I want to run for school board. The answer is: service. For over twenty years, I have volunteered at many school events. I was an Odyssey of the Mind coach for eight years. I ran the scoring software (a trained position) for the JMHS swim team - I was the first to arrive and the last to leave. I facilitated the growth of two MOMS (Moms Offering Moms Support) groups in Stafford County and a co-founder of MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) group in Fredericksburg.

With most of my children graduated, I have begun serving on medical mission trips abroad to help under-served people. With my background in home health care, caring for the children, the disabled, and the elderly, this only seemed natural. I have provided medical assistance on two trips to El Salvador, and I’m planning my next trip to Guatemala next year.

These experiences have reinforced my belief that people from diverse backgrounds, with varying political beliefs and religious affiliations, can unite to enhance our community.

10/19/2023

Know your candidates - Vote for Margie Lucas!

Three candidates are vying for a pair of at-large seats on the Fredericksburg City School Board — incumbent Jarvis Bailey; Margie Lucas, who ran as a write-in candidate for the

09/22/2023

First day of early voting! 🗳 Humbled to see so much support, thanks FXBG! 🇺🇸

09/22/2023

Early voting starts tomorrow! Hope to see you there.

If you are registered to vote in the City of Fredericksburg, you can vote early at the Registrar’s office located at 601 Caroline St., Suite 500A (fifth floor), Fredericksburg, VA 22401-5954, Monday through Friday 8:30am-4:30pm.

09/19/2023

Early voting starts September 22nd!

Margie Lucas is one of three candidates running for two at-large seats on the Fredericksburg School Board in November's election.

09/01/2023

Hot topics are always #1. I am here to address your concerns. Low Virginia school ranking? ELL transition options? Math and reading programs? Social issues? Reach out to me. When I am elected, I will be your voice to provide our youth their best academic outcome.

My family's history is intertwined with our city's heritage. In 1939, in*******al marriages were illegal in much of the United States. My grandparents left New York City and traveled south until they found a city that would recognize their marriage. That city was Fredericksburg.

My husband and I have lived in Fredericksburg’s Great Oaks Neighborhood since 2002. Of our five children, four have graduated from James Monroe High School. Our youngest is graduating from another local high school because we, as parents, recognized that the school system was no longer at the standard it once was. It is my goal to help reverse the current downward trend.

I have been involved with the school system and the community for over 20 years:

* Served on parent committees at the elementary and upper levels
* Served on the Advisory Panel for JM’s Principal candidates
* Worked with PTAs at Hugh Mercer Elementary, Lafayette Upper Elementary and Walker Grant Middle
* I have had five kids in Fredericksburg’s four different schools, all at once, and faced school events schedule challenges - a coordinated calendar is important to families
* Odyssey of the Mind coach for eight years at Lafayette Upper Elementary and Walker Grant Middle
* Organized and ran athletic concessions in middle and high school sports and was trained to score high school swim meets, working with coaches
* Served Fredericksburg City Public Schools lunches throughout the COVID school lockdowns
* Co-Founder of MOPS group here in Fredericksburg and facilitated new MOMS Chapters in Stafford
* Recently served on my second Medical Mission Trip to El Salvador and participate in my church
* President of my Homeowners Association. Budget and policy meetings affect all residents, similar to the school board issues. Worked with homeowners to find solutions for their concerns as the liaison between them and City of Fredericksburg departments
* Professionally, I work for an international packaging solutions company assisting with transporting goods overseas. Effective communication and a sense of cultural awareness are integral in achieving successful results.

Let my experience and common sense work for you.

A Vote for Margie, is a Voice for you!

08/10/2023

Since 2002, I have proudly been a resident of the City of Fredericksburg. I've had the privilege of raising and guiding five wonderful children, all of whom have benefitted from the excellent education provided by our City's public schools, spanning from elementary to high school.

The path I've walked as a parent has ignited a strong desire within me to contribute more to the growth and success of our community. My goal is to harmonize the needs of students, parents, educators, and the administration.

I firmly believe that the foundation of thriving schools lies in a collective effort, where each stakeholder plays a crucial role in upholding a standard of educational excellence. For this reason, I am dedicated to fostering an environment of responsibility and accountability, ensuring that our schools remain centers of productivity and achievement.

My top priorities are the following:

**Effective Support to Retain Teachers**
Every school's success rests on the dedication and expertise of its educators. To ensure that our schools provide a nurturing and conducive environment for both students and teachers, we need comprehensive teacher support programs. This includes professional development opportunities, mentorship initiatives, and competitive compensation packages.

**Discipline and Safety**
Maintaining a safe and respectful learning environment is paramount for academic success. I am committed to working closely with school administrators, teachers, and local law enforcement to develop and enforce effective discipline and safety measures. This involves implementing clear codes of conduct, employing trained security personnel, and promoting anti-bullying and conflict resolution programs. By ensuring a safe space for all students to learn and thrive, we can promote positive behavior and a culture of respect within our schools.

**Parent Involvement**
Education is a collaborative effort involving students, teachers, administrators, and parents. To encourage active parent involvement, I advocate for regular communication channels between schools and families. When parents are engaged in their child's education, students are more likely to excel, and the overall school community becomes stronger.

**Assist Administration and Current Policies**
I aim to work in harmony with the school administration while also providing critical oversight. I will support initiatives that align with the best interests of students, teachers, and the community. However, I also believe in periodically reviewing and adapting policies to meet evolving educational needs. By engaging in constructive dialogue with administrators and seeking input from stakeholders, we can ensure that our schools remain effective and adaptable.

**Citizens' Concerns**
Listening to the concerns of all citizens is a fundamental aspect of serving on the school board. I am committed to maintaining an open line of communication with the community to address any worries or suggestions they might have. By addressing citizens' concerns promptly and transparently, we can build trust and confidence in the school board's decision-making process.

My focus is on building a strong educational foundation that prioritizes effective teacher support, safety, parental engagement, collaboration with administration, and responsiveness to citizens' concerns. By addressing these aspects, we can ensure that our schools provide a high-quality learning experience for all students and foster a positive educational environment.

(Promotions paid for by Friends of Margie Lucas)

10/30/2021

Great support from early voters and looking forward to Election Day!