Daniel Stahler is a candidate for Chesapeake School Board. His name will appear on the ballot on November 5, 2024.
Stahler is running against nine challengers for Chesapeake City Council.
The first day of in-person early voting at your local registrar’s office for this election is Friday, Sept. 20, 2024. Click here to see who is on your ballot.
10 On Your Side reached out to all of the candidates running in this race, with a request for a bio and a list of questions to answer. If you do not see the candidate listed with a profile, we did not receive one.
Biography: In 1991, my journey of dedication to service commenced with my enlistment in the NAVY. Stationed at Naval Base Oceana, I proudly served in the VA85 attack squadron attached to the USS America from 1991-1995.
My dedication to the Chesapeake community is reflected in my illustrious 25-year tenure with the Chesapeake Sheriff’s Office, culminating in my retirement in 2021. Throughout my career, I held the position of a certified DCJS weapons and General Instructor for 20 years, underlining my unwavering commitment to training and safety within our community. I was assigned to various positions as a deputy and supervisor that include Court Security, Corrections, Booking Section, Work Force/Release and Special Projects.
In 2006, I proudly earned my Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Bluefield University. Fueling my commitment to continuous growth, I later achieved a Master of Arts degree in Executive Leadership from Liberty University in 2015.
Why are you running for this office?
As a parent, my foremost reason for pursuing a position on the Chesapeake School Board is to secure a promising future for our children. After dedicating 25 years to public safety and serving as a veteran, I am passionate about continuing my service to a community I hold dear. Though I take pride in the accomplishments of our current school board, I see areas where my skills and experience can address challenges and help shape the future for the next generation and Chesapeake Public Schools.
What is the top challenge facing Chesapeake Public Schools, and how would you address it?
School overcrowding is the key issue in our district, leading to a cascade of challenges, including concerns about safety. Overcrowded classrooms limit the ability to offer individualized programs and stretch teachers and staff thin as they manage the excess student population. Maintaining consistent and proactive communication with our city council is crucial. While our current School Board is working on these issues through school expansion and new construction, the challenge persists, requiring ongoing vigilance. Furthermore, we must enhance transparency with parents and the community regarding our strategies, updates, and timelines.
How do you feel about the politicization of public education?
I firmly believe that schools should be dedicated to learning, free from political distractions. The primary goal of educational institutions is to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities necessary for success in life. When politics enter the classroom, they can undermine this essential mission and foster a divisive atmosphere that impedes learning. Schools should be safe havens for education, where students can focus on gaining knowledge, honing their critical thinking skills, and preparing for their futures without the influence of political bias. By prioritizing education and fostering an inclusive, respectful environment, schools can ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed.
How will you still value constituents with whom you disagree with?
Valuing constituents with whom I disagree is crucial for building a healthy, inclusive community where diverse perspectives are respected and considered. I am committed to engaging respectfully, encouraging open dialogue, seeking to understand, and always recognizing valid points of view. By showing respect for all constituents, I aim to build trust and create a more united and resilient community, even when opinions differ.