Candidates for Delegate to the NEA Representative Assembly
8 two-year terms vacant
Allena Brown
Candidate Statement:
My name is Allena Brown and I am petitioning for the 2-year NEA-RA delegate seat for Portland, OR and Denver, CO from 2025-26. I have attended and participated in 4 national representative assemblies beginning in Houston. Each RA that I attend I learn more about the importance of NEA and DSEA that has further sparked my interest in getting more involved in all levels of our wonderful union. I am a building rep for Smyrna EA, sit on the DSEA Executive Board for Kent County, and have recently become part of the DSEA member organizing team. I am also part of DSEA’s Finance Committee and Scholarship Committee. I would be proud to serve you as a delegate for the Portland and Denver RAs.
Thank you for your support.
In solidarity,
Allena Brown
Jozette Hartsfield
Candidate Statement:
Hello my fellow DSEA members ... My name is Jozette R Hartsfield, and I have been a member of the Colonial School District as a Para educator and a DSEA union member for seventeen years. I have had the pleasure of serving on the NEA RA for the last four years. The opportunity to serve our state at the national level was an experience I will never forget. I remain convinced that staying active and vigilant is the key to protecting and improving ESP across our state. NEA RA offers delegates the opportunity to grow and serve through active participation in workshops and discussions. I would be honored to continue to represent DSEA and Paraeducators at the NEA Representative Assembly, whether it is in person or virtually. I would love to get your vote to remain a delegate and continue to represent you.
Thank you,
Jozette
Amy Johnson
Candidate Statement:
My name is Amy Johnson and I’m running for a two year term for the NEA-RA. I represented Delaware for the past 2 years and would love finishing the work we’ve started. I believe the children we educate are our existing future leaders and beyond. At the local level I have served on the negotiation team, ESP Peer Mentoring, EMAC, and currently I am a building representative. At the state level I sit on the EMAC committee, ESP Bill of Rights, Member Organizer, as well as different task forces, and the executive board. As a former band member the drumline is the heart of the band; it holds every other instrument together. This stands for our union, we are stronger when we come together as one voice not only for our members but our students and communities.
Tawana Prophet-Brinkley
Candidate Statement:
As an educator with 23 years of experience, I have dedicated my career to advocating for students, colleagues, and our profession. Currently serving on the DSEA Executive Board, I bring a wealth of leadership experience and a deep commitment to addressing the needs of educators and students alike.
I continuously strive to uplift the voices of my peers. This past July, I attended the NEA Conference on Racial and Social Justice, furthering my understanding and commitment to creating equitable and inclusive educational spaces.
I understand the importance of representing our state with integrity and purpose. I am eager to once again contribute my voice and passion to discussions and decisions that shape the future of education.
I humbly ask for your vote to represent Delaware educators at the NEA Representative Assembly. Together, we can advocate for policies and practices that empower educators and ensure success for every student.
Katherine Swann
Candidate Statement:
I am interested in continuing to serve as an NEA Representative Assembly Delegate. By serving, I will advocate for our members at the national level. In addition, I will work with members across the nation to ensure that issues that matter to Delaware are addressed at the National level. As the Political Action Chair in the Christina Education Association, I serve to ensure we have an active voice in the election process. As a member of the NEA RA delegation, I will be able to take the needs of our membership to the national level and have our voices heard. Please vote for me as the NEA RA Representative!
Laveil Ricks
Candidate Statement:
I am running for the NEA Representative Assembly because I am passionate about contributing to the meaningful changes taking place at the national level. My diverse background and extensive experience have prepared me to represent our members effectively.
I served in various leadership roles during my 20+ years of service in the United States Air Force,where I developed skills in collaboration, advocacy, and problem-solving. My union career began with CRSA, and after transferring to CREA, I have continued to grow as an advocate for our members.
Since joining CREA,I have been elected to fill a vacant seat on the DSEA Executive Board. In this role,I have actively participated in meetings to address critical issues affecting educators at both the state and national levels.
Belinda Young-Payne
Candidate Statement:
My name is Belinda Young-Payne. I am currently a Special Education Coordinator at Stubbs Early Education Center, an Area Director for the Christina Education Association and a member of the DSEA Executive Board. I have been an educator for 22 years in regular education and special education positions in a variety of settings, with a diverse group of students, families and staff. In addition to advocating for resources and legislation to address the general needs of educators, families and students, my special areas of interest include special education, education for multilingual learners, inclusivity, and equity. I believe it is important for educators to stay informed and to have a voice in decision-making. My goal for seeking position as a delegate to the NEA Representative Assembly is to represent not only our union as a whole but to represent each individual to the best of my ability.
Kristin Patton
Candidate Statement:
My name is Dr. Krissy Patton, and I’m a dedicated educator with thirteen years of membership in the Cape Henlopen Education Association. I am running for State Delegate to the NEA Representative Assembly. As a reading interventionist, I empathize with the challenges educators face in supporting all students.
Being named Cape Henlopen School District Teacher of the Year allowed me to engage directly with state education leaders and advocate for critical issues, such as increased funding for Multilingual Learners, equity initiatives, and high-quality professional development.
I am committed to representing the interests of Delaware educators and students at the state caucus meetings and the Assembly, ensuring our collective voice is heard. Attending the RA next summer to advocate for vital issues affecting Delaware educators would be an honor. I appreciate your support as we strive for a brighter future for all. Thank you.
Trevor Mullane
Candidate Statement:
Hello Fellow Union Members!
My name is Trevor Mullane. I am a second-grade teacher in the Caesar Rodney School District. I am asking for your support when choosing your representatives to the NEA Representative Assembly. As one of your representatives for the last four years, I have been diligent in our efforts to make our already powerful union even stronger. I am an active participant; speaking and working with members across the country in an effort to create policies and resolutions which actively represent our core values and the best interests of all union members. In past years, I had the opportunity to shadow the resolutions committee. This is the committee in charge of drafting, debating, and updating our belief statements. This is important work and going forward, will hopefully be a large part of my time spent representing you.
When deciding on your representatives, please consider re-electing Trevor Mullane.
Cynthia Jones
Candidate Statement:
For the State Delegate seat to the NEA Representative Assembly, I, Cynthia Jones, a member of the Cape Henlopen Support Association and an Educational Support Professional with over twenty years of experience at Love Creek Elementary, am running for re-election.
Currently, I am the CHSSA Secretary and Membership Chair. Along with being a member of the Cape Henlopen Racial & Social Justice
Committee, I have also been an Association Representative for the last seven years. As an experienced educator, I am always searching for a fresh approach to amplify my colleague's voice. I use the knowledge and abilities I've gained to assist strengthen the membership in every facet of my union activity because, after all, there is power in numbers. I hope to continue my work and represent you at the forthcoming NEA RA. I would be honored to represent you.
Katrina Cowan
Candidate Statement:
Hello DSEA members! I'm Katrina N. Cowan, and I'm excited to run for NEA RA Delegate to represent Delaware at the National Education Association Representative Assembly for a two-year term. As a seasoned educator with 9 years of experience, I've developed a unique understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our education system. With my experience on the DSEA Executive Board, Colonial Education Executive Board, Building Rep, and a former member of the Ethnic Minority Affairs Committee, and my passion for education, I'm well-positioned to drive positive change and improve outcomes for our students. I look forward to collaborating with you to enhance Delaware's educational community. Please Vote for me. Thank you for your consideration.
Candidates for Delegate to the NEA Representative Assembly
8 two-year terms vacant
Allena Brown
Candidate Statement:
My name is Allena Brown and I am petitioning for the 2-year NEA-RA delegate seat for Portland, OR and Denver, CO from 2025-26. I have attended and participated in 4 national representative assemblies beginning in Houston. Each RA that I attend I learn more about the importance of NEA and DSEA that has further sparked my interest in getting more involved in all levels of our wonderful union. I am a building rep for Smyrna EA, sit on the DSEA Executive Board for Kent County, and have recently become part of the DSEA member organizing team. I am also part of DSEA’s Finance Committee and Scholarship Committee. I would be proud to serve you as a delegate for the Portland and Denver RAs.
Thank you for your support.
In solidarity,
Allena Brown
Jozette Hartsfield
Candidate Statement:
Hello my fellow DSEA members ... My name is Jozette R Hartsfield, and I have been a member of the Colonial School District as a Para educator and a DSEA union member for seventeen years. I have had the pleasure of serving on the NEA RA for the last four years. The opportunity to serve our state at the national level was an experience I will never forget. I remain convinced that staying active and vigilant is the key to protecting and improving ESP across our state. NEA RA offers delegates the opportunity to grow and serve through active participation in workshops and discussions. I would be honored to continue to represent DSEA and Paraeducators at the NEA Representative Assembly, whether it is in person or virtually. I would love to get your vote to remain a delegate and continue to represent you.
Thank you,
Jozette
Amy Johnson
Candidate Statement:
My name is Amy Johnson and I’m running for a two year term for the NEA-RA. I represented Delaware for the past 2 years and would love finishing the work we’ve started. I believe the children we educate are our existing future leaders and beyond. At the local level I have served on the negotiation team, ESP Peer Mentoring, EMAC, and currently I am a building representative. At the state level I sit on the EMAC committee, ESP Bill of Rights, Member Organizer, as well as different task forces, and the executive board. As a former band member the drumline is the heart of the band; it holds every other instrument together. This stands for our union, we are stronger when we come together as one voice not only for our members but our students and communities.
Tawana Prophet-Brinkley
Candidate Statement:
As an educator with 23 years of experience, I have dedicated my career to advocating for students, colleagues, and our profession. Currently serving on the DSEA Executive Board, I bring a wealth of leadership experience and a deep commitment to addressing the needs of educators and students alike.
I continuously strive to uplift the voices of my peers. This past July, I attended the NEA Conference on Racial and Social Justice, furthering my understanding and commitment to creating equitable and inclusive educational spaces.
I understand the importance of representing our state with integrity and purpose. I am eager to once again contribute my voice and passion to discussions and decisions that shape the future of education.
I humbly ask for your vote to represent Delaware educators at the NEA Representative Assembly. Together, we can advocate for policies and practices that empower educators and ensure success for every student.
Katherine Swann
Candidate Statement:
I am interested in continuing to serve as an NEA Representative Assembly Delegate. By serving, I will advocate for our members at the national level. In addition, I will work with members across the nation to ensure that issues that matter to Delaware are addressed at the National level. As the Political Action Chair in the Christina Education Association, I serve to ensure we have an active voice in the election process. As a member of the NEA RA delegation, I will be able to take the needs of our membership to the national level and have our voices heard. Please vote for me as the NEA RA Representative!
Laveil Ricks
Candidate Statement:
I am running for the NEA Representative Assembly because I am passionate about contributing to the meaningful changes taking place at the national level. My diverse background and extensive experience have prepared me to represent our members effectively.
I served in various leadership roles during my 20+ years of service in the United States Air Force,where I developed skills in collaboration, advocacy, and problem-solving. My union career began with CRSA, and after transferring to CREA, I have continued to grow as an advocate for our members.
Since joining CREA,I have been elected to fill a vacant seat on the DSEA Executive Board. In this role,I have actively participated in meetings to address critical issues affecting educators at both the state and national levels.
Belinda Young-Payne
Candidate Statement:
My name is Belinda Young-Payne. I am currently a Special Education Coordinator at Stubbs Early Education Center, an Area Director for the Christina Education Association and a member of the DSEA Executive Board. I have been an educator for 22 years in regular education and special education positions in a variety of settings, with a diverse group of students, families and staff. In addition to advocating for resources and legislation to address the general needs of educators, families and students, my special areas of interest include special education, education for multilingual learners, inclusivity, and equity. I believe it is important for educators to stay informed and to have a voice in decision-making. My goal for seeking position as a delegate to the NEA Representative Assembly is to represent not only our union as a whole but to represent each individual to the best of my ability.
Kristin Patton
Candidate Statement:
My name is Dr. Krissy Patton, and I’m a dedicated educator with thirteen years of membership in the Cape Henlopen Education Association. I am running for State Delegate to the NEA Representative Assembly. As a reading interventionist, I empathize with the challenges educators face in supporting all students.
Being named Cape Henlopen School District Teacher of the Year allowed me to engage directly with state education leaders and advocate for critical issues, such as increased funding for Multilingual Learners, equity initiatives, and high-quality professional development.
I am committed to representing the interests of Delaware educators and students at the state caucus meetings and the Assembly, ensuring our collective voice is heard. Attending the RA next summer to advocate for vital issues affecting Delaware educators would be an honor. I appreciate your support as we strive for a brighter future for all. Thank you.
Trevor Mullane
Candidate Statement:
Hello Fellow Union Members!
My name is Trevor Mullane. I am a second-grade teacher in the Caesar Rodney School District. I am asking for your support when choosing your representatives to the NEA Representative Assembly. As one of your representatives for the last four years, I have been diligent in our efforts to make our already powerful union even stronger. I am an active participant; speaking and working with members across the country in an effort to create policies and resolutions which actively represent our core values and the best interests of all union members. In past years, I had the opportunity to shadow the resolutions committee. This is the committee in charge of drafting, debating, and updating our belief statements. This is important work and going forward, will hopefully be a large part of my time spent representing you.
When deciding on your representatives, please consider re-electing Trevor Mullane.
Cynthia Jones
Candidate Statement:
For the State Delegate seat to the NEA Representative Assembly, I, Cynthia Jones, a member of the Cape Henlopen Support Association and an Educational Support Professional with over twenty years of experience at Love Creek Elementary, am running for re-election.
Currently, I am the CHSSA Secretary and Membership Chair. Along with being a member of the Cape Henlopen Racial & Social Justice
Committee, I have also been an Association Representative for the last seven years. As an experienced educator, I am always searching for a fresh approach to amplify my colleague's voice. I use the knowledge and abilities I've gained to assist strengthen the membership in every facet of my union activity because, after all, there is power in numbers. I hope to continue my work and represent you at the forthcoming NEA RA. I would be honored to represent you.
Katrina Cowan
Candidate Statement:
Hello DSEA members! I'm Katrina N. Cowan, and I'm excited to run for NEA RA Delegate to represent Delaware at the National Education Association Representative Assembly for a two-year term. As a seasoned educator with 9 years of experience, I've developed a unique understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our education system. With my experience on the DSEA Executive Board, Colonial Education Executive Board, Building Rep, and a former member of the Ethnic Minority Affairs Committee, and my passion for education, I'm well-positioned to drive positive change and improve outcomes for our students. I look forward to collaborating with you to enhance Delaware's educational community. Please Vote for me. Thank you for your consideration.