Candidate Profile: Randy J. Riffle (James City County Williamsburg School Board)

Randy J. Riffle is a candidate for the James City County Williamsburg School Board, Berkeley District. His name will appear on the ballot on November 7, 2023.

Riffle is running against Marvin Franz, Jr. in the Berkeley District race.

10 On Your Side reached out to all of the candidates running in this race with specific questions. The responses below came directly from the candidate and are unedited. If you do not see the candidate listed with a profile, we did not receive one.

Candidate Name: Randy J. Riffle

Race: James City County Williamsburg School Board, Berkeley District

Age: 24

Candidate Website: https://riffleforschoolboard.com

Biography: Randy is a proud product of Virginia’s public schools, grew up in Hampton Roads, and graduated from William & Mary with a degree in government. As an Eagle Scout and the son of a Navy veteran, he learned the value of community service early on and has dedicated his life to public service to enrich the lives of those across Hampton Roads and the Commonwealth. With his experience serving three Delegates and in the Governor’s administration, he is ready to lead in his own community. He believes in good government and providing quality education, which is essential for empowering the community. His priorities include securing higher pay for teachers and ensuring student success through diverse pre-graduation programs. Married to his wonderful wife, Allison, he spends his free time volunteering with a local Boy Scout Troop and ASPIRE, as well as substitute teaching on Fridays.

Why are you running for this office?

Public education has provided me with countless opportunities for personal growth in the past, and now, I am eager to pay it forward through service on the WJCC School Board. I want to be a strong advocate and voice for the next generation of teachers, parents, and students in WJCC Schools, ensuring that they have access to the same transformative experiences I had.

What is the most important issue facing the school system, and what is your position on it?

The most important issue facing the school system is undoubtedly funding, and this challenge is particularly evident in the shortages of staff we’re experiencing across the Commonwealth. From bus drivers to teachers and volunteers, we are struggling to find and retain personnel. Solving this issue is crucial because many necessary improvements within our school divisions depend on having enough funding and a full staff. To address this challenge effectively, the state needs to update its funding methods and make a more active commitment to education. Relying on localities to raise taxes and compete with each other for personnel with higher salaries isn’t a sustainable solution. We must prioritize proper funding by ensuring we have proper staffing first, followed by infrastructure improvements, and then additional programs. Our dedicated staff should not feel undervalued; we must recognize and compensate those individuals we entrust to support and guide our students towards success.

What is your stance on the possible separation of the Williamsburg James City County Public Schools partnership?

My stance on the potential separation is firmly rooted in what’s best for our students. The school system operates as a partnership, and the ongoing studies will shed light on how we can enhance this relationship and whether a split would ultimately benefit students on both sides. While the city has considered such a separation in the past, the current circumstances, including adequate student enrollment and the potential alignment of state resources, make it a more favorable opportunity than previous attempts. Even if the district decides to remain intact, I believe the studies will provide valuable information on how to create the best possible school system.

I’m pleased James City County has extended the contract and is moving towards conducting a study themselves. I am challenging both localities to use the data provided by the studies to find ways to improve the current joint system. Considering the financial implications alone, it’s doubtful that both localities can afford to split by the contract’s end, even if extended, while simultaneously ensuring better outcomes for students in each area.

Nonetheless, my commitment is to assist students, teachers, and parents within the joint school division, prioritizing what’s best for our students. Each locality must demonstrate its dedication and outcomes to this principle, whether through a separation or by returning to the table to enhance the joint system. I plan to hold both accountable; our focus must remain on providing the best education and support for our students.

How do you feel about the politicization of public education?

I feel that the politicization of public education is not in line with its fundamental purpose. Public education should always prioritize the well-being and growth of students. When individuals run for positions on school boards, they should do so as independents to ensure that the best interests of children are at the forefront, free from partisan agendas. This is a public service role, and its primary goal should be to provide a quality education to every student, regardless of their background. Unfortunately, the politicization of education has diverted our attention from this crucial mission, resulting in decisions that may not effectively serve the needs of our students and communities. We must remain committed to our role as independent advocates for education, ensuring that our main concern is always the welfare and educational opportunities of the next generation.

How will you still value constituents and politicians with whom you disagree?

As Chief of Staff to Delegate Mike Mullin of the 93rd House District, I’ve been fortunate to work with constituents and politicians from all political backgrounds on a daily basis. Regardless of their affiliation, my commitment to assisting constituents and working on legislation has remained steadfast. My approach has always been simple and unwavering: “Hello, this is Randy Riffle, Delegate Mullin’s Chief of Staff; how can we help you?”

During our time in Richmond, we encountered the challenges of a split government. Delegate Mullin and I successfully passed nine bills unanimously, including one in partnership with Governor Youngkin’s Administration to recognize Virginia Green Book locations. I will continue to collaborate, build bigger tables, and set aside personal bias to work for all who call, email, or walk through the door. Serving on WJCC School Board will allow me to carry forward my dedication to serving constituents and fostering collaboration for the betterment of our community.