Dr. John Ocheltree for Augusta County School Board, Pastures District

12/03/2025

Congratulations to Buffalo Gap High School!
What an incredible win over Riverheads last Friday. The entire Bison team showed grit, determination, and heart from start to finish. A huge shout out to our amazing coaches for their leadership and hard work in guiding this team to victory!

Thank you to our cheerleaders for keeping the energy high and our dedicated fans for braving the cold to support our boys. You all make a difference!

Now, let’s keep the momentum going...
Good luck this Saturday in the State Semifinals against Rappahannock!

We are behind you all the way. Go Bison!

11/07/2025

I am deeply honored to have been elected as your Pastures District School Board Member. This victory would not have been possible without the incredible support of so many family, friends, volunteers, and community members who believed in our vision for strong schools and bright futures.

To everyone who shared messages, offered encouragement, or simply took the time to vote, THANK YOU. Your trust and confidence mean the world to me.

A very special thank-you to my amazing wife, whose love, patience, and unwavering support carried me through this journey. From long days to late nights, she was there every step of the way, and I couldn’t have done this without her.

As I step into this role, I am committed to listening, learning, and working hard for every student, teacher, and family in our district. Together, we will continue to build schools that reflect the strength and spirit of our community. 👍

11/04/2025

Tomorrow, your voice has the power to shape our schools’ future.

VOTE JOHN OCHELTREE for Pastures School District Board Member

Together, we can champion our children, support our dedicated employees, and create a safer, stronger community for everyone.

11/02/2025

We’re now just two days away from Election Day, and I want to take a moment to remind you about the schools within our Pastures District. If elected, I look forward to working closely with all of them.

Being “political” about Craigsville Elementary or any of our schools isn’t what I do. My focus is on protecting your schools, the children, the faculty, and the safety and security of everyone involved. That’s the true responsibility of a school board member.

As your representative for the Pastures District, I would restore respect and trust in how our schools are led. Throughout my three previous terms on the School Board, my fellow members elected me to serve as Vice Chairman and Chairman each term, a clear reflection of the confidence and respect other members placed in my leadership and decision-making.

Don’t be distracted by politics. On November 4th, vote for the candidate who is practical, proven, and experienced.

Vote for JOHN OCHELTREE - Your Pastures District School Board Member

10/30/2025

I would like to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to every person who plays a role in supporting our schools. From bus drivers, custodians, and cafeteria workers to teachers, coaches, principals, and all those working behind the scenes in the central office. You all make a difference every day.

We often forget that everyone who works in the school system has children who need to get to school, too. They are not just employees, they are parents, grandparents, and sometimes even great-grandparents. And they do it all while caring for our kids. Together, we all have a hand in the success and safety of our students.

As a grandparent myself, I understand the importance of supporting all children and young people in our community. If elected to the school board, I will strive to look out for every child, regardless of age or background. In a world with enough challenges for our youth, I want to be part of the solution, making sure they have what they need to succeed and thrive.

I also want to acknowledge the importance of community and collaboration. I've had the privilege of meeting and speaking with Chris Kincheloe, and I’ve known Tracy Pyles for many years. Whether it’s Chris, Tracy, or anyone else, I look forward to working with anyone who shares the goal of bettering the Pastures District.

I'm not a politician. I’m a practical person, a problem solver, not a problem creator. I’m a community member like all of you, and I’m not here to build a political resume off the backs of my fellow citizens. I am here to serve and make a real, lasting impact.

On November 4th, I ask that you consider these values when you vote.

Together, we can make a difference!

Pictured below are a few of my grandchildren who are being raised in the Augusta County school system.

10/28/2025

I just want to take a moment to thank Kathy Bush for her kind words. Please take a moment to read.

“Hey folks! Please give me a minute of your time... This is a quick read.

Who would you want in your corner in regards to the education, safety, and well-being of the students in Augusta County Public Schools? I choose someone with experience in that arena... Someone who is readily available to everyone through phone calls, emails, and/or face-to-face meetings... Someone who is dedicated to the success of the students... Someone who regularly attends all types of school functions and events in support of the students, parents, teachers/staff, and community... Dr. John Ocheltree is that someone. John is not an implant to this area... He is a lifelong resident and native of Staunton and Augusta County. He has grandchildren in the Augusta County school system... He has an interest in and a great concern for all students. John is known for his honesty, integrity, and hard work and is a well-respected member in both the medical field and the community.
Do the right thing... Make the right choice...

Re-elect Dr. John Ocheltree for Augusta County School Board, Pastures District.

Vote Tuesday, November 4th, for Dr. John Ocheltree!”

- Kathy Bush

10/28/2025

Voting is not only a right, but a civic duty of every citizen. Exercising your right helps mold the city, county, state and country you reside in. The function of all elected officials is to represent the people in their designated areas. It is important that you vote so that your ideals and desires for the future are represented. Sometimes the majority agrees with you, sometimes they don't, but the only true way to lose is by not voicing your opinion at all. No matter how big or small the election, no matter where you stand on a candidate or subject, please vote. Every vote matters, every time.

I enjoyed serving on the School Board from 2008-2021, and look forward to having the chance to serve the next four year.

Thank you for your support, encouragement, and your vote.

10/21/2025

I want to sincerely thank Podiatry Management for shining a light on the importance of the upcoming election and civic engagement within our profession and community. As podiatrists, our work extends beyond clinical care. We’re deeply connected to the lives and well-being of the families we serve. That’s why being actively involved in the community is not just important, it’s essential.

Over decades of supporting local schools, participating in community initiatives, and building relationships across generations, I’ve seen firsthand how these experiences shape a leader who truly understands the needs and values of the people they represent. As a previous school parent and now a grandparent with grandchildren in the school system, I know that strong community ties build the foundation for healthier, more resilient futures.

Leadership grounded in real-life experience and genuine connection to the community ensures that decisions are made with empathy, insight, and accountability. This kind of involvement helps cultivate trust and collaboration, qualities that are vital for meaningful, lasting progress.

I remain committed to carrying these values forward, guided by the lessons learned from years of active engagement. Thank you again to Podiatry Management for providing a platform that elevates the conversation around leadership and community service. Together, through dedication and participation, we can build a future that benefits not only our school division but the generations to come.

Click the link below to read this National Podiatry publication.

Podiatry Management is the national practice management and business magazine, reaching over 22,047 subscribers.

10/15/2025

Thank you, Sheriff Donald Smith, for your endorsement. I truly appreciate your support.

"Dr. John Ocheltree,

It is my privilege to offer my support for Dr. John Ocheltree as he seeks re-election to the Augusta County School Board.

Dr. Ocheltree is deeply rooted in the Pastures District and throughout Augusta County. He is a familiar face at school sporting events, livestock shows, and countless community activities where he not only participates, but also gives generously of his time. His steady involvement reflects his genuine care and commitment to our students, families, and educators.

On the School Board, John has proven himself to be a calm and thoughtful leader. He consistently represents the values and traditions that define Augusta County while approaching every decision with fairness and compassion. His humble leadership and servant’s heart allow him to listen carefully, act with integrity, and guide with balance and reason.

I am confident that Dr. Ocheltree will continue to serve our schools and community with the same dedication and sincerity he has always shown. For these reasons, I am proud to endorse him for the Augusta County School Board."

Sheriff Donald L. Smith
Augusta County Sheriff’s Office
127 Lee Highway/P. O. Box 860
Verona, Virginia 24482
Office: (540) 245-5333
Fax: (540) 245-5330

09/10/2025

This past Friday, I had the pleasure of stopping by the FFA picnic at Gap High School before the football game. It was great to catch up with Ms. Kauffman and a few parents. I want to extend my appreciation to the FFA for all they do to support our students here in ACPS.

I'd also like to congratulate the students who were recognized with awards at last Thursday's school board meeting. You continue to make our community proud with your hard work and dedication.

Finally, way to go JV and Varsity football teams! It's always exciting to see the energy, teamwork, and school spirit on display.

08/05/2025

Welcome Back to School, Augusta County!🍎📚

To the students stepping into new grades, new goals, and new beginnings, you are the reason we believe in tomorrow.

To the teachers and staff leading with patience, purpose, and passion, thank you. Your dedication, creativity, and heart are the driving force behind our schools’ success and the strength of our community.

With a wife who spent 33 years teaching in Augusta County, and as a father and grandfather who’s walked many first-day mornings, I’ve seen the joy, hope, and emotion that come with each new school year.

This season is a powerful reminder of what matters most: showing up for one another, believing in the next generation, and nurturing schools where every child has the chance to thrive.

That’s why I am proud to support strong public schools, dedicated educators, and safe, welcoming classrooms, not only during this campaign, but every day of the year.

Here’s to a school year full of learning, purpose, and possibility for every student, every educator, and every family.