Donna Barriteau
Donna Barriteau ran for election to the Prince George's County Board of Education to represent District 1 in Maryland. She lost in the general election on November 5, 2024.
Barriteau completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.
Biography
Donna Barriteau was born in Washington, D.C.. She graduated from Saint Patrick's Academy. She earned a bachelor's degree, graduate degree, and Ph.D from Bowie State University in 1986, 1996, and 2017, respectively. Her career experience includes working as adjunct faculty.[1]
Barriteau has been affiliated with the following organizations:[1]
- Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
- Kappa Delta Pi
- Delta Kappa Gamma
- American Federation of Teachers
- National Council of Negro Women
- Bowie State University College of Education Advisory Board
Elections
2024
See also: Prince George's County Public Schools, Maryland, elections (2024)
General election
General election for Prince George's County Board of Education District 1
Tiffini Andorful defeated Donna Barriteau in the general election for Prince George's County Board of Education District 1 on November 5, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ |  | Tiffini Andorful (Nonpartisan) | 64.9 | 23,760 |
 | Donna Barriteau (Nonpartisan)  | 34.4 | 12,580 | |
| Other/Write-in votes | 0.7 | 262 | ||
| Total votes: 36,602 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
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Withdrawn or disqualified candidates
- David Murray (Nonpartisan)
Nonpartisan primary election
Nonpartisan primary for Prince George's County Board of Education District 1
Tiffini Andorful and incumbent David Murray defeated Donna Barriteau and Maria Gonzales-Jackson in the primary for Prince George's County Board of Education District 1 on May 14, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | | Tiffini Andorful (Nonpartisan) | 44.3 | 5,133 |
| ✔ |  | David Murray (Nonpartisan) | 22.5 | 2,611 |
| Donna Barriteau (Nonpartisan) | 16.7 | 1,931 | |
 | Maria Gonzales-Jackson (Nonpartisan) | 16.5 | 1,917 | |
| Total votes: 11,592 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team. | ||||
Endorsements
Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Barriteau in this election.
Campaign themes
2024
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Donna Barriteau completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Barriteau's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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I hold a Doctoral Degree in Educational Leadership, a Master of Arts in Administrative Management, and a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, all from Bowie State University. My professional journey has equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of both instructional practices and the intricacies of school leadership.
In addition to my work in education, I serve my community through various leadership roles, including Chair of the Advisory Board for the College of Education at Bowie State University. I remain deeply committed to advocating for equitable educational opportunities in Prince George’s County, working to improve the lives of students, parents, and educators alike.- Key Message 1: Together We Can Tackle Teacher Burnout and Strengthen Our Schools Our teachers are the heart of education, but many face burnout and lack the support they need to thrive. I am committed to developing proactive solutions to tackle teacher burnout by improving working conditions, reducing administrative burdens, and empowering conditionally licensed teachers to achieve full certification. By increasing professional development, particularly in areas like bullying prevention, we can create safer, more inclusive classrooms. Together, we can ensure our teachers are well-supported and build a stronger, more effective school system that benefits both educators and students.
- Key Message 2: Together We Can Prioritize School Safety and Student Well-Being School safety is a fundamental right for every student and staff member. I will make school safety a priority by advocating for enhanced security measures and infrastructure improvements to ensure that all schools are clean, healthy, and up-to-date. I am committed to expanding mental health resources so that students have access to the comprehensive support they need. Safe and supportive schools are key to fostering academic success and emotional well-being. Together, we can create an environment where students and staff feel secure, supported, and ready to thrive.
- Key Message 3: Together We Can Expand Opportunities Through Arts Integration and Community Partnerships Education must go beyond textbooks, and the arts provide a powerful tool for fostering creativity and critical thinking. I believe in integrating the arts into education to make learning more dynamic and engaging for students. Additionally, I will focus on fostering strong partnerships with local businesses to secure additional funding and resources for our schools. By leveraging community support and expanding opportunities through arts integration, we can better prepare our students for the future. Together, we can ensure that all students receive a well-rounded, enriching education that opens doors to endless possibilities.
Dr. Angelou’s work as an educator, author, and activist resonates deeply with me because she understood that education goes beyond the classroom—it’s about fostering empathy, resilience, and self-worth in each individual. Her famous quote, "When you learn, teach. When you get, give," has guided much of my own passion for education and community service.
In the context of education, my political philosophy centers on equity, access, and accountability. I believe in the need for compassionate, data-driven leadership that prioritizes the well-being of all students, especially those in underserved communities. Much like Power’s approach to diplomacy, I believe in the power of collaboration and consensus-building, understanding that meaningful progress requires bringing together diverse perspectives.
Integrity is key, as elected officials must uphold ethical standards and make decisions based on what is right, not just what is politically convenient. Integrity ensures that the official’s actions reflect their values and the needs of the people they serve.
Accountability is essential for taking responsibility for both successes and failures. Elected officials must be willing to face scrutiny and make corrections when needed. This openness shows a commitment to delivering results that matter to the community.
Transparency ensures open communication, which fosters trust. Elected officials should keep constituents informed about decisions, actions, and policies, ensuring that the public feels engaged in the decision-making process. Transparency strengthens the connection between officials and the community.
Empathy allows elected officials to understand the concerns and experiences of the people they represent. Empathetic leaders listen actively and create policies that reflect the diverse needs of the community, ensuring that underrepresented voices are heard.
Lastly, a commitment to service is critical. Elected officials must prioritize the well-being of their community above personal or political gain. They should work tirelessly to improve the lives of those they serve, advocating for solutions that create lasting, positive change.
I am also a strong communicator, actively listening to diverse perspectives and seeking to understand the needs of all stakeholders. This allows me to make informed decisions that reflect the voices of students, parents, educators, and community members. I value transparency and accountability, ensuring that I remain accessible and responsive to the concerns of my constituents.
Another critical responsibility is to be a strategic decision-maker, guiding the development of policies that promote academic excellence, student well-being, and school safety. This includes overseeing the implementation of programs and initiatives that address issues such as teacher retention, curriculum improvements, infrastructure updates, and mental health resources. Fiscal responsibility is also key, as they must ensure that taxpayer dollars are used effectively to support educational goals.
A successful elected official must also act as a bridge between the community and the school system, maintaining open lines of communication with parents, students, educators, and other stakeholders. This requires listening to the concerns of the community and incorporating feedback into policy decisions. Transparency and accountability are essential, as constituents must be informed and engaged in the decision-making process.
I also aim to leave a legacy of supporting teachers and ensuring they have the professional development, resources, and mental health support necessary to thrive in their roles. By promoting innovative programs like STEAM, career and technical education (CTE), and arts integration, I hope to foster a generation of students who are not only academically successful but also creative, critical thinkers ready to excel in the workforce and beyond.
Even at a young age, I could sense that something monumental was happening, something that would shape the future of our country. The March on Washington stood as a beacon of hope, equality, and the fight for justice, and it has remained an inspiration to me throughout my life.
This role taught me the importance of patience, adaptability, and empathy, as I worked with students who had diverse needs and learning styles. It also deepened my commitment to creating inclusive and equitable learning environments, ensuring that all students receive the support and encouragement they need to thrive.
"Start with Why" has helped me focus on leading with purpose, ensuring that every decision I make is guided by my core values of equity, inclusion, and service. It’s easy to get caught up in the "how" and "what" of our work, but Sinek reminds us that it’s the "why" that inspires and drives meaningful change. This approach has shaped my commitment to ensuring that all voices are heard and that every action I take is rooted in a desire to positively impact the lives of students, teachers, and communities.
What resonates most with me about Professor X is his vision of a world where differences are celebrated, and his determination to fight for justice and equity, even in the face of adversity. He believes in fostering an environment where everyone, regardless of their challenges, can thrive and contribute positively to society—principles I hold close in my own life and work.
The song often plays in my mind when I’m navigating tough situations or striving to support others in my community. It speaks to the power of unity, courage, and hope—values I hold close in my personal and professional life. It reminds me that no matter the adversity, whether it’s in education, leadership, or personal struggles, there’s always the potential to rise and make things better. This song fuels my commitment to helping others rise and ensuring that all voices are heard and valued.
I often find myself working tirelessly to ensure that no one is left out of the conversation, striving to advocate for those who might otherwise go unheard. While this passion fuels my leadership, it can also be overwhelming, as I feel a strong responsibility to make sure things turn out right for all involved. At times, it has meant long hours and personal sacrifices to ensure that I’ve done everything possible to achieve positive outcomes.
In addition to policy-making, school board members must oversee the district’s budget and ensure that resources are allocated efficiently and equitably. This includes making tough decisions about funding for programs, staffing, infrastructure, and student support services. Financial oversight is key to maintaining the trust of the community and ensuring that taxpayer dollars are used responsibly.
Another critical aspect is holding the school district accountable by evaluating the performance of the superintendent, monitoring the implementation of initiatives, and ensuring that the district meets its educational goals. Board members must be actively engaged in assessing student achievement and advocating for improvements when necessary.
In addition to students, I am committed to serving their parents and families. Parents are essential partners in the educational process, and it’s crucial to keep their concerns, hopes, and aspirations for their children at the forefront of decision-making. Creating a strong connection between schools and families ensures that students are supported both at home and in the classroom.
Teachers, staff, and administrators are also critical constituents. They are on the front lines of delivering education, and their needs must be addressed through fair compensation, professional development, and a supportive work environment. Their success directly influences student outcomes, so I am committed to advocating for policies that support their growth and well-being.
For faculty and staff, I would advocate for competitive salaries, robust professional development opportunities, and support systems that address the challenges they face, such as teacher burnout and workload management. Ensuring that teachers and staff feel valued and equipped to succeed is crucial for student success, and I would work to provide them with the tools, resources, and ongoing training needed to stay motivated and effective in their roles.
Within the broader community, I would focus on fostering strong partnerships between schools, families, and local businesses to increase funding, enhance educational programs, and create real-world learning opportunities for students. I believe in maintaining open lines of communication, ensuring that the concerns and feedback of parents and community members are heard and incorporated into decision-making.
I would specifically target parent-teacher organizations (PTOs) and parent advisory groups, ensuring that parents are fully engaged and have opportunities to share their concerns and ideas. Their feedback is crucial for improving school policies and ensuring that we meet the diverse needs of students.
In addition, I would seek to partner with local businesses and chambers of commerce to create opportunities for career and technical education (CTE) programs, internships, and real-world learning experiences for students. These partnerships are vital for preparing students for future success in the workforce and ensuring that the local economy benefits from a well-educated population.
I would also engage with community organizations and non-profits that focus on youth services, mental health, and equity. Collaborating with these groups would help expand access to critical resources such as counseling, after-school programs, and tutoring services, particularly for underserved populations.
To measure good teaching, I would focus on multiple indicators, including student achievement, growth, classroom observations, and feedback from students and parents. I would also assess how teachers incorporate culturally relevant practices to create inclusive environments that honor students' identities.
I would also advocate for innovative programming that promotes project-based learning, where students solve real-world problems through interdisciplinary projects that combine critical thinking and creativity. Expanding culturally relevant curricula is another priority, ensuring that the content reflects the diverse backgrounds of students and connects learning to their experiences.
I would also promote public-private partnerships with local businesses and organizations to provide additional funding, internships, and real-world learning opportunities for students. Engaging the broader community in supporting schools can bring in valuable resources while building strong ties between schools and local industries.
Preparedness is another key principle. Schools must have clear, regularly practiced emergency protocols, including lockdown drills and communication plans, so that students and staff know how to respond in case of an emergency. Equally important is addressing mental health and bullying prevention as essential aspects of school safety. Expanding access to counselors, mental health resources, and social-emotional learning (SEL) programs helps prevent crises before they arise.
I would also prioritize mental health education for students, faculty, and staff, incorporating social-emotional learning (SEL) programs into the curriculum to help students manage stress, build resilience, and develop healthy coping mechanisms. For faculty and staff, I would support mental health awareness training to help them recognize signs of distress in students and themselves.
Additionally, I would encourage the creation of wellness programs that promote work-life balance and self-care for educators and staff, offering resources like mindfulness training, stress management workshops, and access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs).
Because he was outstanding in his field!
I would also prioritize mental health policies, expanding access to counselors, social workers, and school psychologists. This includes reducing the counselor-to-student ratio and implementing social-emotional learning (SEL) across all schools to help students manage stress and improve emotional well-being.
Additionally, I’d like to implement policies that strengthen career and technical education (CTE) and apprenticeship programs. Preparing students for both college and the workforce through hands-on, real-world experiences is essential for their future success. Policies that encourage arts integration and STEAM education would also be key, fostering creativity and critical thinking.
Their support affirms my commitment to advocating for equitable education, uplifting our community, and ensuring that all voices are heard. These endorsements inspire me to continue driving meaningful change for our students, teachers, and families across the district.
The environment should be safe and supportive, where students feel emotionally and physically secure. A focus on social-emotional learning (SEL) is key, helping students develop resilience, empathy, and the ability to manage stress. Mental health resources should be readily available to support student well-being.
In addition, the ideal learning environment integrates hands-on, experiential learning with real-world applications. This includes STEAM programs (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics), which encourage problem-solving, creativity, and innovation. Students should be active participants in their education, engaging in projects, discussions, and collaborative work that prepares them for the future.
Moving forward, I would advocate for creating a more robust infrastructure to support virtual learning, ensuring all students have access to reliable technology and internet, regardless of their socioeconomic status. Additionally, I would emphasize the importance of early planning and clear communication with parents, staff, and students to ensure transparency and preparedness during any future crises.
First, I would work to increase transparency and accessibility, ensuring that parents are well-informed about school policies, curriculum updates, and key decisions. This would involve regular updates through newsletters, town hall meetings, and digital platforms where parents can easily access information and provide feedback. I believe in two-way communication, so I would create opportunities for parents to share their thoughts, concerns, and suggestions through surveys, focus groups, and parent advisory councils.
Second, I would actively seek to engage with parent-teacher organizations (PTOs) and other parent groups to ensure their voices are heard in decision-making processes. By attending meetings, hosting listening sessions, and involving parents in discussions about school priorities, I would create a collaborative environment where parents feel valued and involved in shaping the future of the district.
Additionally, I would work to address diverse needs by ensuring that all parents, regardless of background, have access to resources and opportunities to participate. This includes offering multilingual communication, culturally responsive engagement strategies, and flexible meeting times to accommodate different schedules and languages.
First, I believe in actively developing a talent pipeline by partnering with local universities and teacher preparation programs, offering internships and student teaching opportunities to attract future educators and administrators. For staff recruitment, targeted outreach to diverse communities will ensure our schools reflect the diversity of our student population.
Second, competitive salaries and benefits are key to attracting and retaining talent. I would advocate for fair compensation packages that include healthcare, retirement plans, and clear professional growth opportunities. Ensuring a path for career advancement and ongoing professional development also helps retain top talent.
Third, fostering a positive and supportive work environment is critical. By reducing burnout, providing adequate resources, and supporting mental health, we can keep faculty and staff engaged and motivated.
Accountability goes hand in hand with transparency. As a leader, I believe that officials must be held responsible for their decisions, ensuring that they deliver on their promises and correct course when necessary. This includes listening to feedback, addressing concerns, and being open to scrutiny. Accountability also means standing by decisions and owning outcomes, whether positive or negative.
Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.
See also
2024 Elections
External links
Footnotes
