School Board members are elected to a 4 year term, with one representative for each of the 7 districts in Washington County. This year 3 school board seats will be filled. In 2 years, the other 4 school board seats will be up for election. All candidates are independent, not partisan.
Campaign Phone
276-619-1489
Education
Bachelor's degree in Political Science from UVA Wise and a Master's in Public Policy from Liberty University.
Experience
Jenny Nichols is a member of the Washington County School Board, where she has served for four years. She is also the vice chair of the A. Linwood Holton Governors School and a member of the advisory council for HEALS of SWVA Lab School. She is an alumna of the 2023 Sorensen Political Leaders Program. She is currently enrolled in the Virginia cohort of the Hunt Institute State Policy Fellows, which focuses on the development of education policy at the state and local levels. She is also the President-Elect of Virginia School Boards Association.
Family
Having lived in Washington County for 23 years with her husband, Brock, she is deeply committed to her community.She is a proud mother of two sons, Jack, who attends the University of Virginia, and Todd, who is a student at John S. Battle High School.
Other Social Media
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-nichols-mapp-15b41967/
One of the most pressing challenges in the Wilson District, located in Washington County, is the aging condition of our school buildings. While our staff works diligently to maintain these facilities, long-term sustainability will require new construction and modernization projects. I support advocating at both the state and local levels for the “1% Bill,” which would allow counties to hold a referendum to add a 1% sales tax dedicated exclusively to school capital improvements. This is a feasible, locally driven solution that empowers communities to invest in their future.
Our district is experiencing significant growth, with multiple new subdivisions planned and the potential for an inland port located within our boundaries. High Point Elementary is already at full capacity, and we must proactively address enrollment pressures. We need to analyze demographic data and consider redrawing school zone boundaries to ensure balanced enrollment. These steps will help us plan responsibly for the future.
I oppose any voucher system that diverts funding from public education, especially in historically underfunded rural Appalachian communities in Southwest Virginia. Public schools are the backbone of our region’s resilience, and every dollar matters. While I respect families’ right to choose the best educational path for their children, this tax credit—capped at $1,700 and subject to income requirements—falls far short of covering private school tuition, which often exceeds $10,000 annually. I question how widely it would be utilized and remain committed to strengthening public schools for all.
Student achievement begins with high expectations, rigorous standards, and exceptional instruction. In Washington County, we are fortunate to have some of the most dedicated and high-caliber educators in the region, and I’m deeply grateful for their tireless work. But success also depends on strong partnerships—when families, caregivers, and communities are engaged and invested, students are empowered to reach their full potential. A great school system nurtures every learner and builds a culture of excellence and support.
