THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT 
              Copyright (c) 1994, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: Wednesday, August 31, 1994             TAG: 9408300161
SECTION: ISLE OF WIGHT CITIZEN    PAGE: 14   EDITION: FINAL 
TYPE: Back to School '94

SOURCE: BY ALLISON T. WILLIAMS, STAFF WRITER 
DATELINE: CARROLLTON                         LENGTH: Short :   49 lines

GOAL: UPGRADING SCHOOLS' IMAGE

George W. Bradby, 46, says he is investing in Isle of Wight County's future by serving on the School Board.

``I believe kids really are our future,'' said the newest board member. ``For kids to survive, they must get a good basic education in high school.''

Bradby, a senior safety engineer at Newport News Shipbuilding, was appointed to the board July 1. He is filling a seat vacated by the Rev. James Johnson.

Bradby was born and raised in Rushmere. He and his wife, Cynthia, now live in Carisbrook. They have one son, Kevin, 20.

Bradby is active in the Carrollton community and his church, First Gravel Hill Baptist Church in Smithfield. Although his son has graduated from Smithfield High School, Bradby remains active in the school's band booster club.

Civic involvement played a key part in his being appointed to the School Board, Bradby believes.

``I have strong feelings about supporting public education. I really consider this a prestigious position.''

Over the next four years, Bradby wants to change the public's perception about Isle of Wight Public Schools. He believes many people don't think the county provides as good an education as neighboring school systems.

``Once people make up their minds, it is hard to get them to see things differently,'' Bradby said. ``We are going to have to show people we have a quality system.''

Bradby wants to see scores improved on standardized tests, such as the Scholastic Aptitude and Passport to Literacy tests.

He also wants the School Board to continue recruiting and retaining quality educators. To accomplish this, the school system must keep teacher salaries competitive and school facilities in good condition, he said. ILLUSTRATION: Photo

George Bradby

KEYWORDS: ISLE OF WIGHT COUNTY SCHOOLS

by CNB