Meet The Candidate: David Priddy For Arlington School Board

ARLINGTON, VA — In addition to voting for the president and vice president, one member of the U.S. Senate, member of the U.S. House of Representatives from the 8th congressional district, the Arlington County Board and School Board, two amendments to the Constitution of Virginia, and five bond questions for Arlington County.

David Priddy, a 46-year-old full-time father with over 12 years experience in the vertical transportation industry, is running for a seat on the Arlington County School Board.

As part of its coverage of the 2020 election, Patch has asked each of the candidates in Arlington to fill out a questionnaire to describe why they think they're the best person to fill the job they're running for.

Candidate

David Priddy

Age (as of Election Day)

46

Town/City of Residence

Arlington

Office Sought

Arlington County School Board

Party Affiliation

Democrat

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education

B.A. History, James Madison University

Occupation

12+ years in the Vertical Transportation Industry
Currently a full-time Father

Campaign website

https://priddyforschoolboard.c...

The single most pressing issue facing Arlington County is a safe return to school during COVID-19, and this is what I intend to do about it.

Our single most pressing issue facing APS right now is how we navigate a safe return to school for students, staff, and teachers during COVID-19. If elected, I plan on making sure the Superintendent’s plan for reopening is consistent with best practices in the state of Virginia and within CDC guidelines.

Do you support Black Lives Matter and what are your thoughts on the demonstrations held since the death of George Floyd and the shooting of Jacob Blake?

Yes. Please read my statement on George Floyd here: https://bit.ly/30BUyJJ

What are your thoughts on the campaign to "defund" the police?

We saw in the Commonwealth’s Attorney election last year that Arlington is in favor of criminal justice reform. Along with that reform comes Restorative Justice practices, a mental health docket, and a citizens review board. Since this is the County’s approach to reform, we must take a look at how we are policing our schools and be consistent with the County’s changes. If elected, I will make decisions that are in-line with criminal justice reform.

What are your thoughts on the state and national response to the coronavirus pandemic? Do you favor such measures as limiting operation of non-essential businesses or restricting indoor/outdoor dining? And do you favor a nationwide mask mandate?

The response from the state and national leaders should have been aligned with what scientists and health experts put forth. If you look at the countries that were successful in limiting the spread of COVID-19, those methods should have been used. It should not have become a political decision. Yes, I support a mask mandate.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

Two critical differences that set me apart are: 1) With children in elementary school and middle school, I bring a ‘boots on the ground’ perspective that is not currently represented on the board. 2) With professional experience managing multi-million dollar operational budgets, working with labor unions, managing construction projects, I bring a business perspective to the role which is a necessary skillset with the anticipated budget shortfalls that we will face.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)

My platform consists of an equity plan. We can do a better job at providing resources for all students. Visit https://priddyforschoolboard.c... for full details.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform

I am running on a platform of equity, proper planning, and communication. My platform seeks to accomplish the following: implement an equity initiative across all schools and programs; emphasize transparency and accountability as key School Board values to restore the community's trust; and spearhead discussions concerning fundamental issues such as budgets, capacity, and student well-being.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

Professionally I have been successful at each endeavor that I have encountered. Whether it’s been sales, account management, operations, or initiatives outside the workplace, I have the ability to adapt and understand what is required to be successful.

If you win this position, what accomplishment would make your term in office as a success?

Success will be determined by measuring the progress we have made as it relates to equity. We need to have cultural competency training for teachers and staff; hire teachers who represent the diversity of the student population; ensure that the new Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer (CDEIO) plays a substantive role and has sufficient support; and create comprehensive metrics to make sure we stay on track.

Why should voters trust you?

Voters should trust me because I have proven as a leader that I can listen to community members and get things done. Whether it’s parking for teachers or advocating for schools, I have proven time and time again that I know how to navigate the process and the people involved in order to get the desired result(s).

What are your views on fiscal policy, government spending and the use of taxpayer dollars in the office you are seeking?

My professional background working for a Fortune 150 company has afforded me the training of how to handle money and report back to stakeholders with positive results. I have had to make the hard decisions on what is in the best interest for the business. I will do the same as a School Board member when it comes to tax dollars.

Is there any reason you would not serve your full term of office, other than those of health or family?

No

The best advice ever shared with me was:

Be yourself

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

Please visit https://priddyforschoolboard.c... for more information about my platform and campaign.