photo of Richard Jessie

The Prince William County School Board elected Richard Jessie to a one-year term as Vice Chairman, effective January 7, 2026. Jessie, who was elected to the School Board in November 2023 to represent the Occoquan Magisterial District, brings a lifelong commitment to service, equity, and student success. This is his first term serving as Vice Chairman.

Jessie, a passionate advocate for equitable learning opportunities, firmly believes that all students can achieve at a high level—a conviction shaped by his own educational journey and decades of involvement in the school community.

For more than a decade, Jessie has been a consistent, active presence at School Board meetings, amplifying community voices and championing high expectations for all students.

A retired U.S. Marine Corps major and decorated Vietnam veteran, Jessie earned an accounting degree from The George Washington University while on active duty. After his military service, he worked as a human resources equal opportunity manager at The MITRE Corporation and a senior individual contributor at Lockheed Martin, reinforcing his commitment to fairness and access for all.

Jessie is married to former School Board member and retired PWCS educator and principal Lillie Jessie. The couple has two daughters, who are graduates of Prince William County Public Schools.