George,

I write to support John Gaines’ candidacy for Charlottesville’s School Board. Mr. Gaines is the epitome of what a school board member should be. He is an accomplished UVA Curry School graduate who has served our schools for 41 years in teacher and principal roles. John Gaines has given his life to public education, and I have witnessed his dedication and skill first hand.

Mr. Gaines and I are active members of the Albemarle-Charlottesville NAACP where he has served as education chair for years. Rarely does a meeting occur without John Gaines’ thorough presentation of carefully researched materials, statistics and/or concerns. He also proposes many appropriate action strategies and guides the development of committees for follow-up. He has worked constantly and tirelessly to fight for superior public education for Charlottesville’s youth.

Serving on Charlottesville’s School Board, John Gaines would offer our community the combined resources of his deep personal commitment to educational excellence and his extensive professional knowledge.

Dena Bowers (electronic mail, June 14, 2005)