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Editor’s note: She is running against Sitrina B. Pope on the ballot in the race for an at-large Southampton County School Board seat.

Name: Natalie Dever King 

Age: 47 (turns 48 on Saturday, Aug. 24)

Family: Married to Chris King for 27 years; two children, Kaylee, age 24, and Cameron, age 21; two dogs and 10 chickens. 

Education: 

• B.S. in early childhood psychology, Christopher Newport University; 
• M.S. in special education, Virginia State University; and 
• Ed.S. in administration and leadership pre-K-12, Regent University. 

Career: Special educator for 26 years, all in the Virginia Public School System. I was a special education teacher assistant, special education teacher, behavior specialist, special education coordinator and special education director.

1.) Why do you want to be elected as a member of the Southampton County School Board? 

I believe that all students and teachers deserve the resources, support and opportunities necessary to thrive. With my extensive experience and heartfelt dedication, I am ready to bring meaningful change to our schools and community. 

2.) What would you list as your primary qualifications for this role? 

• My 26 years in the Virginia Public School System as a teacher and administrator; 
• My experience owning and operating Oasis Learning Center, a nonprofit dedicated to providing services and resources to children with disabilities and their families; and
• My role as a mom and parent of two children that were educated in a public school system. 

3.) What do you think are Southampton County Public Schools’ greatest strengths? 

• Small school system that allows for more community involvement, which enhances educational programs and fosters a collaborative atmosphere between schools, families and local organizations; and
• Smaller class sizes in some schools allow for more individualized instruction and closer relationships between teachers and students, which can enhance learning and support.

4.) What do you think are the greatest challenges facing Southampton County Public Schools? 

• Transparency from all levels in the division; and 
• Retention of highly qualified teachers.

5.) What role do you believe public education plays in preparing a child for life? 

Parents and stakeholders play essential roles in preparing a child for life through their active engagement and support. Parents provide emotional support, model positive behaviors and create a conducive learning environment at home, reinforcing classroom learning and fostering social and emotional development. Teachers deliver quality education and adapt instruction to meet individual needs, while school administrators influence educational quality through policy and resource allocation. Community organizations and businesses offer valuable resources and real-world experiences, and policymakers shape educational standards and funding. Together, these contributions create a comprehensive support network that equips children with the skills, knowledge and attitudes necessary for future success.

6.) If elected, what will be your leading priorities during your term? 

Promote Inclusive and Equitable Education 

• Goal: Foster an inclusive educational environment where every student, regardless of background or ability, has access to the tools, resources and opportunities they need to succeed. This involves advocating for equitable funding, diverse learning opportunities and policies that support all students and educators. 

Strengthen Community and School Collaboration 

• Goal: Build stronger partnerships between schools, families and the broader community to support student success. This includes increasing transparency in decision-making, encouraging community involvement in school activities, and developing programs that engage parents, educators and local organizations in the educational process. 

Enhance Support for Special Education 

• Goal: Advocate for increased resources, training and support for special education programs to ensure that every child with disabilities has the opportunity to reach their full potential. This includes expanding services, improving individualized education plans (IEPs) and providing ongoing professional development for teachers.