Sims for Polk 

Victor Sims is running for Polk County School Board District 3 to ensure every student has access to quality education, regardless of their background. He believes in balancing the needs of students, teachers, and families by advocating for fair policies and better resources. Rooted in community, Victor is committed to listening, engaging, and building a school system where every child can thrive. Join the movement for a stronger, more inclusive Polk County!

This keeps accessibility at the forefront (ensuring quality education), balance (considering all stakeholders), and community (centering engagement and belonging)

Victor Sims for Polk County School Board District 3 | Champion for Students, Staff & Families

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"Every child deserves to be seen, valued, and supported. Together, we can create schools where students thrive, families are empowered, and communities grow stronger." — Victor Sims

<h2>VICTOR E. SIMS</h2><img src="https://run.imgix.net/17a49ae7-e7ae-4982-af9a-615f91cb7346/e391e4d6-0a8d-4aaf-9e66-d9cf1c85d2d6/e391e4d6-0a8d-4aaf-9e66-d9cf1c85d2d6.jpeg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C2047%2C2048&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="right" alignwidth="40" tiltdirection="left" variant="framed">Hi, I’m Victor Sims—a proud Polk County native, former foster youth, and lifelong advocate for children and families. I’m running for the Polk County School Board because I believe every student, staff member, and family in this community deserves a school system that sees their worth, values their potential, and prepares them for success.Growing up in Polk County and attending 12 different public schools across Polk County, I experienced firsthand both the challenges and incredible strength of our community. As a foster child - Polk County Public School teachers, substitute teachers, and librarians didn’t just educate me—they took me in, made sure my education didn’t suffer, and ensured I stayed close to those who mattered to me. I remember teachers staying after school to help me catch up when there were educational gaps. That’s the Polk County Public Schools I remember: a place where we looked out for one another and believed in the promise of every child.It’s time we return to that spirit of care. We must support our educators and school staff by increasing their pay and giving them the respect they deserve as the cornerstone of our children’s futures.It’s time we ensure parents have access to schools that reflect the values, culture, and needs of the communities they serve. Every family should be able to trust that their local school is a place of opportunity and belonging for their child.It’s time we invest in preparing our students not just to be good citizens but to be leaders and contributors to a thriving workforce right here in Polk County.I’ve spent my career fighting for families and creating conditions where children can prosper. Partnering with state agencies, community organizations, and advocates, I’ve led efforts to keep children connected to their communities, champion family preservation, and influence policies that strengthen families.With a law degree from Florida State University, I’ve worked across the country, but my heart is and always will be right here in Polk County, where I’m raising my daughter and building a future rooted in service.This campaign is about creating schools where every student is seen, every educator is supported, and every family has the opportunity to thrive. Polk County showed me what LOVE and community look like—and now it’s time to show that same care for our schools, our educators, and our future.I humbly ask for your vote and your belief that together, we can build a brighter tomorrow for Polk County. Let's do this, together.

Education isn’t just about textbooks and test scores—it’s about empowering our communities, uplifting our teachers, and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to shine. My platform stands on three key pillars that I believe will transform our education system for the better

<h3>Fighting for Our Community</h3>These are some of the top issues our campaign is focused on. Learn more about our issues <a href="/issues" target="" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">here</a>.

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<ul><li>When I talk about Accessibility to Quality Education, I am envisioning a future where every student, regardless of their zip code, has access to a high-quality learning experience. It’s about leveling the playing field and giving all children the tools they need to thrive in an ever-changing world. This commitment requires strategic investment in schools, curricula, and supportive programs that meet students where they are and help them reach their fullest potential.My vision includes:<ol><li>Equitable Funding: Ensuring that under-resourced schools receive the financial boost they need to provide updated learning materials, state-of-the-art technology, and modern facilities. We must allocate resources in a way that addresses disparities and uplifts schools that have historically been left behind.</li><li>Modern Curricula: Embracing curricula that go beyond the basics, equipping students with digital literacy, critical thinking skills, and the creativity required to meet tomorrow’s challenges. Education must evolve to prepare students not just for tests, but for life.</li><li>Supportive Programs: Expanding after-school programs and tutoring initiatives so that every student can receive the extra help they need to succeed. These programs can be a lifeline for working families and a key to closing achievement gaps.</li></ol>By investing in equitable education, we are investing in a brighter future for all. Every student deserves the chance to learn, grow, and succeed in a system that prioritizes their needs and potential.</li></ul>

Ensuring that under-resourced schools get the financial boost they need to provide updated learning materials, state-of-the-art technology, and modern facilities.Embracing curricula that go beyond the basics, equipping students with digital literacy, critical thinking skills, and the creativity required for tomorrow’s challenges.

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Accessibility to Quality Education

When I say "Backing Our Teachers and Support Staff," I mean standing up for the individuals who shape our children's future every day—from the classroom to the front office and everywhere in between. Our teachers, paraprofessionals, secretaries, and support staff dedicate themselves to creating positive learning environments, often going above and beyond with limited resources and recognition. It's time we do better by them.I recognize that while we can never fully compensate them for the invaluable work they do, we must prioritize paying them more. Two neighboring counties have already found innovative ways to increase teacher salaries. We must follow their lead, not just for our teachers but for every essential staff member who contributes to our schools' success. Paraprofessionals, secretaries, custodians, and other support staff are the backbone of our educational system—they deserve fair and competitive wages, too.<ul><li>My commitment includes:<ol><li>Fair Compensation: Advocating for competitive salaries that reflect the critical role teachers and support staff play in shaping our future. We must invest in their well-being to retain and attract talented educators and staff.</li><li>Ongoing Professional Development: Creating opportunities for teachers and support staff to continue learning and growing professionally, ensuring they are equipped with the latest tools and methods to inspire and educate our children.</li><li>Empowered Classrooms: Providing teachers and support staff with the resources and support networks they need to encourage collaboration, creativity, and innovative teaching practices.</li><li>Pay Compression: It is time that we value the time that staff have put in and that we create a program that increases salaries for those who have remained in Polk County.</li></ol>By backing our teachers and support staff, we are investing in the future of our students and our community. When educators and school staff are valued, supported, and paid what they deserve, our children thrive—and that benefits us all.</li></ul>

Our staff are the heart of our education system. They inspire, innovate, and invest their passion in every lesson. I am committed to ensuring that they have the support and recognition they deserve by:Fair Compensation: Advocating for competitive salaries that reflect the critical role staff play in shaping our future.

Backing Our Teachers and Support Staff

When I talk about "community" as part of the ABC Campaign, I am not just referring to a collection of people living in the same place. To me, community means a network of individuals who are bound together by shared values, experiences, and a desire to see each other thrive. It’s about connection, belonging, and collective responsibility.Community is where relationships are nurtured, voices are heard, and everyone has a role to play. It’s neighbors looking out for one another, local businesses supporting schools and families, and people coming together to celebrate joys and navigate challenges. Community thrives when we build bridges, not barriers; when we listen deeply and respond compassionately.Through the Campaign, I aim to foster a sense of community that is inclusive and empowering. This means:<ol><li>Building Relationships: Encouraging meaningful connections between people, organizations, and institutions.</li><li>Supporting Growth: Providing opportunities for individuals and families to access resources and reach their full potential.</li><li>Creating Spaces for Engagement: Ensuring everyone has a seat at the table and a voice in the decisions that affect their lives.</li></ol>

Community is the foundation of our collective strength. It’s where connections are formed, voices are heard, and people come together to support and uplift one another. I am committed to fostering a community that thrives.

Connecting our Community to Schools

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As a proud product of Polk County Public Schools and the son of a dedicated teacher, I carry the values of hard work, community, and education in everything I do. Growing up in classrooms filled with inspiration and curiosity sparked my passion for learning and public service. My mother’s unwavering commitment to her students taught me the transformative power of education and instilled a deep respect for its ability to change lives. Her example guides me today, driving my commitment to making a meaningful impact on the lives of families and children in Polk County and beyond. I believe that when we invest in our children’s education, we invest in a stronger future for our entire community. It is this belief that motivates me to work every day towards ensuring all children have the resources and opportunities they deserve. I am dedicated to breaking down the barriers that prevent children from reaching their full potential, ensuring that every student feels seen, heard, and supported. Together, we can build a future where every child has the chance to succeed, no matter where they come from.

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Every child deserves to be seen, valued, and supported. Together, we can create schools where students thrive, families are empowered, and communities grow stronger." — Victor Sims

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Hi, I'm Victor Sims. I was born and raised right here in Polk County, Florida. My story, like so many others, starts with resilience and determination. Growing up in the foster care system, I experienced a world where stability was rare, and being truly seen felt like a privilege. For over a decade, I moved through homes and environments where it often seemed like no one understood who I was—or cared enough to try. But I carried with me the belief that life could be different, that it should be different for every child who just needs someone to believe in them.Those early experiences fueled my professional path. I’ve dedicated my career to advocating for children and families.

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<h2>August 18th 2026</h2>

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<h2>August 8th - 15th 2026</h2>

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<h2>Apply by August 6th 2026</h2>

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEVictor Sims Announces Candidacy for Polk County School Board District 3Polk County, FL – February 22,2025 – Yesterday, Victor Sims, the son of a school teacher, native resident of Polk County, and father, filed for candidacy for Polk County School Board District 3. A passionate advocate for children and families, Sims is committed to ensuring that every student in Polk County has access to the quality education and support they need to succeed.“As the son of a school teacher and someone who grew up in the foster care system, attending 12 different schools right here in Polk County, I know how important it is to make sure that every child has the opportunity to learn and grow,” said Sims. “I’ve been fortunate to work with families and communities throughout my career, and I want to use my experience to help create a school system where all students can thrive.”Sims’ campaign is built around three core principles, known as the ABC's, which will guide his efforts to improve the educational experience for Polk County’s students, teachers, and families. These pillars will serve as the foundation for his work on the School Board:<ul><li>A is for Accessibility to Quality Education: Ensuring that all students—no matter where they come from or what challenges they may face—have equal access to a high-quality education.</li><li>B is for Backing Our Staff: Teachers and school staff are essential to the success of our students. Sims is committed to ensuring they have the support, resources, and recognition they need to help our students succeed.</li><li>C is for Connecting Community to Schools, Staff and Students: A school’s success is tied to the community it serves. Sims will work to strengthen the connection between schools, parents, and local organizations to ensure that every student is supported both inside and outside the classroom.</li></ul>“As your School Board member, I will ensure that our schools are places where students are not only educated but supported and encouraged to reach their full potential,” Sims continued. “I’ve had the honor of consulting with staff in the last three presidential administrations—Barack Obama, Donald Trump, and Joe Biden—on issues that matter to families and communities. I will bring that same focus and commitment to Polk County’s school system, working alongside our teachers, parents, and community members to create meaningful solutions.”Sims’ candidacy is rooted in his deep connection to the community and his unwavering belief that a strong educational system is the key to a thriving future. Whether through supporting teachers, ensuring all children have the chance to succeed, or creating stronger partnerships with local communities, Sims is committed to making Polk County schools places where every child has a path to success.

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