CHARLESTON, W.Va – Longtime West Virginia Board of Education member Debra Sullivan’s time on the board is finished, as she took part in her final meeting before retirement on Wednesday.
Debra Sullivan
Sullivan reflected on her time with the board and said her convictions never changed.
“When I was appointed to this board in 2017, I knew what an important responsibility it would be, and I’ve never taken that responsibility lightly,” she said.
After being appointed by then-Governor Jim Justice, Sullivan, who taught in four states and retired as principal of Charleston Catholic High School, became well-known for her willingness and eagerness to ask questions during board meetings. She explained why she found it so important to keep asking.
“I’ve asked a lot of questions during our meetings, and I don’t apologize for doing so. I was asking on behalf of students and staff in our schools, for parents and communities,” she said.
As she wrapped up her time on the board, Sullivan spoke her mind on the issues she sees in education around West Virginia.
“It is painful to watch programs get cut, staff laid off, and schools consolidate and close. I had hoped to see momentum toward addressing these issues during my time on the board, but it’s going to take a radical shift in perspective at the state level,” she said.
She reiterated her belief in West Virginia’s schools and painted a positive picture of what’s to come.
“Schools should never be viewed as the problem. They define our future and should be given the credit they deserve. Public schools are the bedrock of our community, and they will continue to be,” she said.
As the meeting came to its close, Sullivan’s fellow board members paid her tribute, starting with Kathy Justice. She called Sullivan a true friend who remained the same throughout their time knowing one another.
“She was just like she is now, so engaged in everything, loves children, loves education, and she has just been a true friend, will always be a true friend,” she said.
Sullivan’s love for children shone through in the statements made by other board members as well. Vice President Victor Gabriel said that Sullivan’s actions reflect her beliefs.
“I don’t know how to describe Debra other than to say that, first of all, she cares about kids. Kids are her number one priority, and the other thing is, it’s in her heart. She cares enough because she loves the kids, and she wants it right,” he said.
Dr. Christopher Stansbury closed the remarks with hopes that, even in retirement, Sullivan may remain involved in education.
“Your passion for education and wanting to see things done right just exudes from you, and I hope that you do continue to stay involved, and (I) look forward to seeing you around the building here, and obviously, come back to the meetings and visit,” he said.