Shelly Simonds

Shelly Anne Simonds was born on November 9, 1967, in Oxford, Ohio. She is an American educator and politician who has dedicated her career to public service, particularly in education and environmental advocacy. Simonds is a member of the Presbyterian church and is married to Paul, with two children, Tessa and Georgia.

Education

Simonds earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Bucknell University in 1991 and a Master of Arts degree from Stanford University in 1994.

Political Experience

Current Position: Simonds serves in the Virginia House of Delegates representing the 70th District, which includes part of the City of Newport News. She has held this seat since 2020.

Party Affiliation: Democratic

Electoral History: She ran as the Democratic candidate for Virginia's 94th House of Delegates district in 2013 and 2017 before successfully winning the November 2019 election with 57.7% of the vote. Following redistricting, she now represents the 70th District.

Notable Achievements and Service:
- Served on the Newport News School Board beginning in 2012 on a platform supporting teachers and workforce development
- Chairs the Aerospace Advisory Council
- Serves on the Advisory Board on Teacher Education and Licensure
- Member of the Commission on School Construction and Modernization
- Participates in the Chesapeake Bay Restoration Fund Advisory Committee
- Serves as Virginia State Director for Women in Government
- Long-standing environmental activist with nearly 20 years of advocacy work, including early involvement with the League of Conservation Voters on clean energy initiatives
- Active in professional organizations including membership in the NAACP and Virginia Sierra Club