Dora L. Brooks

Candidate for School Board

Age: 59

Residence: Manassas.

Education: BS, education, Elizabeth City State University; MA, education and human development, George Washington University.

Occupation: Retired school administrator, Fairfax County public schools.

Elected offices/civic activities: Member, Manassas School Board, 1994-2002; member, Continuing Care Board, Annaburg Manor and Caton Merchant House, Oak Shade Baptist Church; former member, Manassas Schools Strategic Planning Committee; former volunteer, Prince William- Manassas Regional Jail.

What do you think is the most urgent problem facing your jurisdiction? "I am committed to setting budget priorities through community engagement. I believe that citizens in Manassas (parents, community members, leaders, teachers and school staff) recognize the economic and social value that an excellent school system builds for our community. If given the honor to serve on the School Board, I will strive to initiate community dialogue before the budget process begins and clearly communicate the school system's financial picture as well as to provide budget information to the public that is easy to understand and conveys the relationship between budget items and student achievement."

Why should voters elect you? "I am a leader who is motivated to serve on the board solely for the purpose of maintaining and improving our schools for all children."

Web site: None given.

E-mail address: None given.