Adam Seipel for Waynesboro School Board, Ward D.
Building a bridge to the future for every student.
Adam is a Waynesboro dad of two, Scout leader, and educator with nearly 20 years of experience. As a former classroom teacher from a family of educators, he knows that for a student to succeed, the adults around them need a clear roadmap and the right resources.
“We aren't just teaching kids to keep up with the world; we are teaching them to lead it.”
A city of bridges. A plan for every student.
Waynesboro is a town of bridges. They connect our neighborhoods and keep our community moving. Adam is running to be the connector who unites and strengthens the pillars of our schools.
The family on-ramp
School should not feel like a maze. Adam will launch a simple 'Family Roadmap' for the big transition years—kindergarten, 6th grade, 9th grade, and graduation —so no family feels left behind. Families deserve clear communication, easy tools, and a real seat at the table.
Beyond the basics
Reading and math are the foundation. But our kids also need critical thinking, collaboration, and digital safety to thrive. Adam will support programs that prepare students for the jobs of tomorrow by giving them the experiences they need to succeed today.
Common-sense safety
Every child deserves to learn without fear, and every parent deserves peace of mind. I will advocate for verified exterior door security, instant transparent emergency communication, and investing in counseling and mental health support our students need before distress turns into crisis.
Community vitality
Strong schools mean a strong Waynesboro. When our schools are healthy, they attract new businesses, support local jobs, and keep our neighborhoods thriving for generations to come.
Community Concerns: What I'm Hearing from Our Neighbors
Over the past few weeks, I’ve walked our neighborhoods and talked with hundreds of families across Ward D. Across front porches and sidewalks, two urgent priorities consistently rise to the top:
1. Common-Sense School Safety & Crisis Response
What neighbors are saying:
Families are deeply concerned about physical security in our buildings and the lack of rapid, clear communication during emergency situations.
Where I stand:
- Secure Facilities: Verifying that all exterior doors lock automatically and consistently upgrading visitor access protocols across every building.
- Rapid Parent Alerts: Establishing clear, transparent emergency communications so families receive verified information immediately, rather than waiting through silence and rumors.
- Proactive Support ("Human Detectors"): Prioritizing mental health staff, counseling, and staff training to address student distress early, while keeping classrooms welcoming places of joy and learning.
2. A Deliberate, High-Standard Superintendent Search
What neighbors are saying:
Parents and educators are worried the current School Board is rushing to select a new superintendent in 60 days before the newly elected board is seated in January.
Where I stand:
- Use Our Legal Runway: Under Virginia law (Code of Virginia § 22.1-60), our division has up to 180 days (through late June) following a vacancy to conduct a search. There is no legal or practical need to rush an appointment by November.
- Community & Educator Voice: Parents, teachers, and staff must have a genuine, structured seat at the table to define the leadership qualities our division needs.
- Accountability to the Incoming Board: With several schools currently facing accreditation challenges, the School Board members chosen by the voters this November should have an active voice in selecting the superintendent who will lead our division into the future.
For families
Too many families feel out of the loop. Adam will push for clear, consistent, and low-friction communication so you know what is happening and how to help. The goal is to move you from bystander to valued partner.
For school leaders
School leaders need strong systems and support. Adam will be a collaborative partner, focused on proven instructional models and the resources needed to lead schools well.
It takes a bridge, not a solo act.
No student learns alone. It takes families, educators, school leaders, and the whole community working together. Adam’s role on the School Board is to lift up every voice and connect the pieces.
For educators
Educators are the experts. Adam will work to cut busy work and reduce red tape so teachers can focus on the heartbeat of the classroom: our students.
For the community
Our investment in schools should pay off for the whole city. Adam will champion programs that prepare students for the modern workforce so Waynesboro grows stronger year after year.
Latest updates from the campaign
Stay up to date on what Adam is working on in Waynesboro and across our schools.
Advocating for our schools
Speaking at the City Council and School Board meetings to advocate for the protection and full funding of Waynesboro Public Schools.
Listening to families and community members
Meeting with local families and community members to discuss the specific needs of our students and the gaps in our current school-home communication.
Neighborhood conversations
Walking our streets and talking with neighbors to ensure the School Board's vision is rooted in the actual priorities of the people who live here.
Learn more about Adam and the campaign
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Adam Seipel?
I'm a local dad and an educator who believes our schools should reflect the strength of the city we love.
What is your work background?
I have spent over ten years helping districts, school leaders, and classroom educators serve their students. I've led trainings for educators around the world and right here in our town.
How will you support educators?
By leaning on their professional expertise. I want to provide the resources and support that cut through unnecessary paperwork, giving educators the time they need to facilitate engaging and innovative learning experiences for every student.
How will you support our families?
By treating you as a valued partner in your child's education. My "Family Roadmap" initiative will turn on the lights during difficult transitions like starting Kindergarten or moving to high school, ensuring you have the information and support you need to advocate for your student.
When will we see change?
On day one, the "Family Roadmap" becomes a priority to bridge the home-school gap immediately.
Why focus on the adults?
A student doesn't learn in a vacuum, and a one-legged stool cannot stand. It takes a community of engaged adults—families, educators, and leaders working together—to provide the support that prepares our students for the future.