Amber Reed is running for a seat on the Roanoke County School Board representing the Vinton
District. She is a lifelong resident of Vinton and a graduate of William Byrd High School with
the Class of 1996. She attended Herman L. Horn (formerly East Vinton) and then grades 4 and 5
at Roland E. Cook. Her son is a 2022 graduate of WBHS.
“I am a third-generation resident of our wonderful community,” Reed says.
Reed has a Bachelor’s Degree in Science with a major in Education and a minor in Special Education from Liberty University, and is working toward her Master’s Degree in Education at Mary Baldwin. She teaches fourth grade at Westside Elementary School in Roanoke City.
“As far back as I can remember, I’ve wanted to be a teacher,” said Reed. “Even as a young child, I would line up my dolls and stuffed animals as my ‘students,’ mimicking the lessons I’d learned in school and pretending to run my own classroom.
“That early passion only grew stronger with time. I was always eager to absorb as much information as I could—not just for myself, but so I could share it with others. There’s something deeply fulfilling about helping students discover their potential, watching their confidence grow, and being a part of their ‘aha’ moments. Teaching isn’t just a profession for me, it’s ‘a calling.’ I became a teacher because I believe in the power of education to transform lives, and I wanted to be a part of that transformation every day.
“As a teacher, my job goes far beyond delivering lessons—it’s about building long-lasting
relationships with my students and creating a learning environment where they feel seen,
supported, and challenged. I immerse them in literacy and guide them through the rich history of
Virginia studies, helping them grow both academically and personally.
“For instance, this year, my students worked incredibly hard in preparation for the first round of
SOL testing, and their effort paid off—our class achieved an 87% mastery rate. I couldn’t be
prouder of their dedication and growth. One student in particular went from a score of 316
(which is considered below basic) to a 500 on her reading SOL this year, as ‘passed advanced.’
“Teaching Virginia studies has been especially rewarding. We take field trips to historical
landmarks like Jamestown and Monticello, giving students the chance to experience history
firsthand. For many, these trips offer opportunities they may not otherwise have, bringing the
past to life in powerful, memorable ways.
“Being a teacher is not just my job—it’s my passion. Every day, I have the privilege of shaping
young minds and opening doors to new possibilities.
“I have been teaching for eight years. Prior to teaching, I worked as a branch manager for 15
years in distribution and sales.
“I have volunteered for and been an avid supporter of the Roanoke Rescue Mission, and I have
also been involved with Habitat for Humanity with building homes for the less advantaged. I am
a member of Chamblissburg Baptist Church where I have attended with my family since
2000. As a child, I attended church at Midland Baptist in Vinton with my grandmother and then
East End Baptist Church.
“I have not served in a formal office; however, I do serve as a mentor teacher for first year
teachers at my school. I have been successful in grant writing for programs to benefit my
students and our school. I was recently chosen as the recipient of a grant from DonorsChoose.org
for the teacher of Virginia; that grant has provided a significant amount of money for my
classroom and our entire school. I am also involved with the counselor at our school for the
L.E.A.D.E.R.S program, which is a program for students who go above and beyond, maintain
satisfactory grades and demonstrate what a true LEADER is.
“I decided to run for the School Board because I believe it’s essential to have voices from within
education at the decision-making table. As someone who works in the school system every day, I
see firsthand what our students, teachers, and staff truly need to succeed. I understand the
challenges and opportunities that exist within our classrooms—not just in theory, but in practice.
“In addition to my experience in education, I also bring a strong background in budgeting and
the allocation of funds. I believe School Board members should not only be passionate about
education, but also capable of making fiscally responsible decisions that directly benefit students
and educators.
“Our schools deserve leadership that understands the realities of the classroom and can advocate
effectively for the resources and policies that will make a meaningful difference. That’s why I
chose to run—to be a voice for those inside the school system and to help shape a better future
for all our students.
“If elected to the School Board, my goal is to be a strong advocate for students, teachers, and
families by ensuring that every decision made reflects the real needs of our schools. I hope to
bring a practical, classroom-based perspective to the board—one that understands the day-to-day
challenges educators face and the support our students require to thrive.
“Some of the issues that are most important to me include ensuring equitable funding across all
schools, increasing support for teachers and staff, and maintaining high standards for academic
achievement while also prioritizing student well-being. With my background in education and
experience in budgeting and resource allocation, I aim to help our schools make smart, impactful
financial decisions that directly benefit teaching and learning.
“I’m especially passionate about strengthening early literacy, supporting intervention programs,
and making sure all students have access to meaningful learning experiences—both inside and
outside the classroom. My goal is to help our schools keep progressing forward, ensuring that
every student has the opportunity to grow, achieve and succeed.
“I believe I will be an effective School Board member because I bring a unique combination of
educational insight and a strong business background. As an educator, I understand the daily
realities of the classroom and how School Board decisions directly affect students, teachers, and
learning outcomes. This perspective allows me to advocate for policies that truly support our
schools from the inside out.
“In addition, my background in business has provided me with valuable experience in strategic
planning, financial management, and efficient resource allocation. These skills are essential for
making informed, responsible decisions that ensure our schools are not only well-funded but also
operate effectively and sustainably.
“By blending my knowledge of education with sound business principles, I will work to make
decisions that are student-focused, fiscally responsible, and aligned with the long-term goals of
our district. I’m committed to listening, collaborating, and leading with both heart and strategy.
“I am committed to serving the Roanoke County school system and our community with
experience, integrity, and a clear focus on student success. I would be honored to earn your vote
and represent our community on the School Board.”
