New Kent Charles City Chronicle

News for New Kent County and Charles City County, Virginia | April 9, 2026

Letter to the Editor: Supports Cunha for New Kent School Board

By Community Member | October 21, 2023 11:24 am

I am writing to express my strong endorsement for Helena Cunha for New Kent School Board representative, District 2.

As a lifelong educator, Helena brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the fundamental principles of education. She will also be the only member on the board with teaching experience.

Helena holds a Masters Degree in Education from Hofstra University. She’s been an educator for 30 years including a public school teacher for 22 years. She is currently a part-time instructor for an online international high school. She has been a curriculum developer, science department chair, grade-level social studies coordinator, new teacher mentor, and cheerleading coach.

The standout qualities that make Helena an ideal candidate include:

1. Her belief in a rigorous curriculum. In an age where educational priorities can sometimes become convoluted, Helena stands firm on the importance of a curriculum grounded in the basics of math, reading, science, and civics. Her dedication to those foundational subjects and to robust vocational and technical courses reflects a commitment to providing students with a well-rounded and comprehensive education that equips them for success in the real world.

2. Her belief that curricula, materials, and programs should be reviewed to ensure age appropriateness and academic relevance.
Equally noteworthy is her promise to bring responsiveness to the school board. Too often, citizens feel unheard, and their comments and questions go unanswered.

In Helena Cunha, we have a candidate who not only understands the intricacies of education but is also dedicated to ensuring that the school board remains connected to the community it serves.

I wholeheartedly recommend Helena Cunha as the candidate of choice for the school board.

Leslie Trivette
Quinton