Dustin Keith (Russell County Public Schools, At-large, Virginia, candidate 2023)

Dustin Keith (Nonpartisan) ran for election to Russell County Public Schools, At-large in Virginia.^[1]

Elections

2023

Ballotpedia survey responses

Dustin Keith completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2023. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Keith's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Dustin is a native of Lebanon, VA. He works in prevention for the local community services board. Dustin leads collaborative efforts in multiple coalitions on issues including substance abuse, mental health, and chronic disease. Dustin also teaches prevention education programs and works closely with schools on special projects. Dustin coaches the Lebanon High Academic Team and is a proud member of the Russell County Education Association. Dustin also works as a Realtor and is President of the Southwest Virginia Association of Realtors. Russell County has always been home for Dustin, and community service is an important part of his life. Dustin is a 2013 recipient of the President's Volunteer Service Award. He is a Past President of the Russell County Rotary, serves as Chair of the Upper Tennessee River Roundtable, and volunteers on many other nonprofit boards. Through his work in prevention, as a coach, in business, and with nonprofits, Dustin has learned the value of listening and empowering others to tell their story. Dustin believes in this approach and will use it to address the real issues facing Russell County Public Schools as the next At Large School Board member.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

I will work for Education Equity, ensuring that all students across the Commonwealth, regardless of zip code, are receiving the standard of a high-quality education and have a voice in their school system.
I will work for safe and inclusive learning environments for all. All students have a right to attend school and receive a quality education without fear of harm, discrimination, or bullying.
I will work for addressing post-COVID educational challenges, including learning deficits and mental health issues. I will also help modernize our schools and provide our educators with the latest, innovative teaching tools and instructional aids.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

As a mental health professional and community coalition coordinator, I have learned the value of listening and empowering others to tell their story. Only through listening and storytelling can collective decisions be made that raise up entire communities. I believe in this approach and will use it to address the real issues facing Russell County Public Schools as the next At Large School Board member: Listen and respond directly to the needs of students, parents, and school staff Fund public schools & teachers with the resources they deserve Create safe & inclusive learning environments for all students Address post-COVID educational challenges, including learning deficits and mental health issues

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