-
-
Wayne Fournier is running for Thurston County Commissioner, Position 4 - a new seat created this year. Born and raised in Tenino, Fournier served as a parole officer, firefighter, and city council member before being elected as Tenino's mayor in 2015.
Fournier's platform includes preserving Thurston County's natural beauty by opposing a new airport, providing better representation for south Thurston County residents, and funding infrastructure, first responders, and local culture.
During his years as mayor, Fournier doubled the city budget, renovated every city-owned facility, and obtained a $750,000 grant for playgrounds. He was named best mayor in Western Washington by KING5 in 2017 and gained national attention during the pandemic for starting a local currency program that gave residents wooden money to spend exclusively at businesses in the city.
Fournier has faced a few notable scandals. He served two years in a diversion program for allegedly slapping a phone out of the hand of a local bartender in 2019. In 2020, while under his mayorship, the city of Tenino was scammed out of $280,000, leading to a recall effort. However, the recall attempt was dismissed and Tenino ended up netting $70,000 when the city sued their insurance company over the scam.
The other candidate for this position is conservative Vivian Eason, who ran for county commissioner as a Republican in 2022. Eason is a retired army veteran who previously worked with the Thurston County Sheriff's Office. She blames the commonsense accountability measures that Washington placed on police for peoples' struggle with drug addiction and homelessness and would make funding police her top priority. She has also been present at events with far-right MAGA Republican Joe Kent.
Although his career is not free of controversy, Fournier's mayorship has shown his support for labor unions and funding the public infrastructure that helps our communities thrive. Fournier is the best choice in this race.
Last updated: 2023-10-19Wayne Fournier
Wayne Fournier is running for Thurston County Commissioner, Position 4 - a new seat created this year. Born and raised in Tenino, Fournier served as a parole officer, firefighter, and city council member before being elected as Tenino's mayor in 2015.
Wayne Fournier is running for Thurston County Commissioner, Position 4 - a new seat created this year. Born and raised in Tenino, Fournier served as a parole officer, firefighter, and city council member before being elected as Tenino's mayor in 2015.
Fournier's platform includes preserving Thurston County's natural beauty by opposing a new airport, providing better representation for south Thurston County residents, and funding infrastructure, first responders, and local culture.
During his years as mayor, Fournier doubled the city budget, renovated every city-owned facility, and obtained a $750,000 grant for playgrounds. He was named best mayor in Western Washington by KING5 in 2017 and gained national attention during the pandemic for starting a local currency program that gave residents wooden money to spend exclusively at businesses in the city.
Fournier has faced a few notable scandals. He served two years in a diversion program for allegedly slapping a phone out of the hand of a local bartender in 2019. In 2020, while under his mayorship, the city of Tenino was scammed out of $280,000, leading to a recall effort. However, the recall attempt was dismissed and Tenino ended up netting $70,000 when the city sued their insurance company over the scam.
The other candidate for this position is conservative Vivian Eason, who ran for county commissioner as a Republican in 2022. Eason is a retired army veteran who previously worked with the Thurston County Sheriff's Office. She blames the commonsense accountability measures that Washington placed on police for peoples' struggle with drug addiction and homelessness and would make funding police her top priority. She has also been present at events with far-right MAGA Republican Joe Kent.
Although his career is not free of controversy, Fournier's mayorship has shown his support for labor unions and funding the public infrastructure that helps our communities thrive. Fournier is the best choice in this race.
Wayne Fournier
Wayne Fournier is running for Thurston County Commissioner, Position 4 - a new seat created this year. Born and raised in Tenino, Fournier served as a parole officer, firefighter, and city council member before being elected as Tenino's mayor in 2015.
19th Legislative District
Not in 19th Legislative District? Click here to choose your customized guide.
County Commission
Depending on where you live, you may have the following county races on your ballot.
-
-
Wayne Fournier is running for Thurston County Commissioner, Position 4 - a new seat created this year. Born and raised in Tenino, Fournier served as a parole officer, firefighter, and city council member before being elected as Tenino's mayor in 2015.
Fournier's platform includes preserving Thurston County's natural beauty by opposing a new airport, providing better representation for south Thurston County residents, and funding infrastructure, first responders, and local culture.
During his years as mayor, Fournier doubled the city budget, renovated every city-owned facility, and obtained a $750,000 grant for playgrounds. He was named best mayor in Western Washington by KING5 in 2017 and gained national attention during the pandemic for starting a local currency program that gave residents wooden money to spend exclusively at businesses in the city.
Fournier has faced a few notable scandals. He served two years in a diversion program for allegedly slapping a phone out of the hand of a local bartender in 2019. In 2020, while under his mayorship, the city of Tenino was scammed out of $280,000, leading to a recall effort. However, the recall attempt was dismissed and Tenino ended up netting $70,000 when the city sued their insurance company over the scam.
The other candidate for this position is conservative Vivian Eason, who ran for county commissioner as a Republican in 2022. Eason is a retired army veteran who previously worked with the Thurston County Sheriff's Office. She blames the commonsense accountability measures that Washington placed on police for peoples' struggle with drug addiction and homelessness and would make funding police her top priority. She has also been present at events with far-right MAGA Republican Joe Kent.
Although his career is not free of controversy, Fournier's mayorship has shown his support for labor unions and funding the public infrastructure that helps our communities thrive. Fournier is the best choice in this race.
Last updated: 2023-10-19
-
-
Emily Clouse is running for Thurston County Commission to represent the newly-created District 5. Clouse is the executive director of CARE Olympia, a nonprofit that connects formerly-incarcerated youth with counseling, education, and mutual aid. She is also a union member through her work in human services, and she is a veteran of the U.S. Army, where she worked as a military intelligence analyst.
If elected, Clouse would prioritize funding programs that serve youth and families, protecting the environment, and ensuring working people can all access affordable homes. Her platform contains bold, progressive proposals like powering utilities through renewable public power instead of wealthy fossil fuel corporations, bringing social housing and mandatory affordable housing to the county, and creating a new board with the sheriff's office to include the voices of people impacted by the legal system. While she works to create more housing that working people can afford, she would also fund case managers to work with residents of existing camps and RV settlements to help them transition to permanent homes.
Terry S. Ballard is Clouse’s conservative opponent for Thurston County Commission, District 5. He believes climate change is not a “here and now” issue and has made very divisive statements regarding people struggling with addiction. If elected, he would prioritize removing county offices from Olympia and allowing developers to build on land without mitigating their impact on the habitats of protected species.
Clouse's strong emphasis on racial equity and her dedication to restorative justice makes her an excellent choice to represent Thurston County, District 5.
Last updated: 2023-10-19Emily Clouse
Emily Clouse is running for Thurston County Commission to represent the newly-created District 5. Clouse is the executive director of CARE Olympia, a nonprofit that connects formerly-incarcerated youth with counseling, education, and mutual aid.
Emily Clouse is running for Thurston County Commission to represent the newly-created District 5. Clouse is the executive director of CARE Olympia, a nonprofit that connects formerly-incarcerated youth with counseling, education, and mutual aid. She is also a union member through her work in human services, and she is a veteran of the U.S. Army, where she worked as a military intelligence analyst.
If elected, Clouse would prioritize funding programs that serve youth and families, protecting the environment, and ensuring working people can all access affordable homes. Her platform contains bold, progressive proposals like powering utilities through renewable public power instead of wealthy fossil fuel corporations, bringing social housing and mandatory affordable housing to the county, and creating a new board with the sheriff's office to include the voices of people impacted by the legal system. While she works to create more housing that working people can afford, she would also fund case managers to work with residents of existing camps and RV settlements to help them transition to permanent homes.
Terry S. Ballard is Clouse’s conservative opponent for Thurston County Commission, District 5. He believes climate change is not a “here and now” issue and has made very divisive statements regarding people struggling with addiction. If elected, he would prioritize removing county offices from Olympia and allowing developers to build on land without mitigating their impact on the habitats of protected species.
Clouse's strong emphasis on racial equity and her dedication to restorative justice makes her an excellent choice to represent Thurston County, District 5.
Emily Clouse
Emily Clouse is running for Thurston County Commission to represent the newly-created District 5. Clouse is the executive director of CARE Olympia, a nonprofit that connects formerly-incarcerated youth with counseling, education, and mutual aid.
-
-
Emily Clouse is running for Thurston County Commission to represent the newly-created District 5. Clouse is the executive director of CARE Olympia, a nonprofit that connects formerly-incarcerated youth with counseling, education, and mutual aid. She is also a union member through her work in human services, and she is a veteran of the U.S. Army, where she worked as a military intelligence analyst.
If elected, Clouse would prioritize funding programs that serve youth and families, protecting the environment, and ensuring working people can all access affordable homes. Her platform contains bold, progressive proposals like powering utilities through renewable public power instead of wealthy fossil fuel corporations, bringing social housing and mandatory affordable housing to the county, and creating a new board with the sheriff's office to include the voices of people impacted by the legal system. While she works to create more housing that working people can afford, she would also fund case managers to work with residents of existing camps and RV settlements to help them transition to permanent homes.
Terry S. Ballard is Clouse’s conservative opponent for Thurston County Commission, District 5. He believes climate change is not a “here and now” issue and has made very divisive statements regarding people struggling with addiction. If elected, he would prioritize removing county offices from Olympia and allowing developers to build on land without mitigating their impact on the habitats of protected species.
Clouse's strong emphasis on racial equity and her dedication to restorative justice makes her an excellent choice to represent Thurston County, District 5.
Last updated: 2023-10-19
Port Races
Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below races on your ballot.
-
-
Jasmine Vasavada is running in District 1 for the Port of Olympia seat being vacated by the retiring Commissioner Joe Downing. Vasavada is the director of policy and government affairs for the Washington State Department of Commerce where she strives to help Washington communities and economies thrive. She has worked in public service for years and, before that, she used her law degree for public interest advocacy and legislation.
Vasavada is running on a broadly progressive platform to generate community economic prosperity, protect Thurston’s ecosystem, and build a culture of diversity and belonging at the port. She wants to invest in broadband for rural farms and ranches, innovate support for small businesses, create living wage jobs, clean up Budd Bay, restore the Deschutes Estuary, and collaborate with the community, including seeking partnerships with tribal governments. In this race, Vasavada has been endorsed by progressive elected leaders at the state and local level and by community organizations including political, labor, and advocacy groups.
Vasavada is facing Bill McGregor, a former commissioner who served on Olympia’s elected port commission for 15 years. Before that, he spent his decades-long career working at a number of different Washington ports in high-level operations positions, including at the Port of Olympia. McGregor is also active on a number of community boards. If elected to serve again, he wants to improve economic investment in the community, prioritize environmental stewardship, and lead by engaging the community. Unfortunately, in 2021, McGregor vocally opposed public health guidelines that were put in place to keep us all safe during the pandemic.
We recommend Vasavada for Port of Olympia, District 1 because of her strong platform and impressive endorsements from progressive advocates.
Last updated: 2023-10-12Jasmine Vasavada
Jasmine Vasavada is running in District 1 for the Port of Olympia seat being vacated by the retiring Commissioner Joe Downing.
Jasmine Vasavada is running in District 1 for the Port of Olympia seat being vacated by the retiring Commissioner Joe Downing. Vasavada is the director of policy and government affairs for the Washington State Department of Commerce where she strives to help Washington communities and economies thrive. She has worked in public service for years and, before that, she used her law degree for public interest advocacy and legislation.
Vasavada is running on a broadly progressive platform to generate community economic prosperity, protect Thurston’s ecosystem, and build a culture of diversity and belonging at the port. She wants to invest in broadband for rural farms and ranches, innovate support for small businesses, create living wage jobs, clean up Budd Bay, restore the Deschutes Estuary, and collaborate with the community, including seeking partnerships with tribal governments. In this race, Vasavada has been endorsed by progressive elected leaders at the state and local level and by community organizations including political, labor, and advocacy groups.
Vasavada is facing Bill McGregor, a former commissioner who served on Olympia’s elected port commission for 15 years. Before that, he spent his decades-long career working at a number of different Washington ports in high-level operations positions, including at the Port of Olympia. McGregor is also active on a number of community boards. If elected to serve again, he wants to improve economic investment in the community, prioritize environmental stewardship, and lead by engaging the community. Unfortunately, in 2021, McGregor vocally opposed public health guidelines that were put in place to keep us all safe during the pandemic.
We recommend Vasavada for Port of Olympia, District 1 because of her strong platform and impressive endorsements from progressive advocates.
Jasmine Vasavada
Jasmine Vasavada is running in District 1 for the Port of Olympia seat being vacated by the retiring Commissioner Joe Downing.
-
-
Jasmine Vasavada is running in District 1 for the Port of Olympia seat being vacated by the retiring Commissioner Joe Downing. Vasavada is the director of policy and government affairs for the Washington State Department of Commerce where she strives to help Washington communities and economies thrive. She has worked in public service for years and, before that, she used her law degree for public interest advocacy and legislation.
Vasavada is running on a broadly progressive platform to generate community economic prosperity, protect Thurston’s ecosystem, and build a culture of diversity and belonging at the port. She wants to invest in broadband for rural farms and ranches, innovate support for small businesses, create living wage jobs, clean up Budd Bay, restore the Deschutes Estuary, and collaborate with the community, including seeking partnerships with tribal governments. In this race, Vasavada has been endorsed by progressive elected leaders at the state and local level and by community organizations including political, labor, and advocacy groups.
Vasavada is facing Bill McGregor, a former commissioner who served on Olympia’s elected port commission for 15 years. Before that, he spent his decades-long career working at a number of different Washington ports in high-level operations positions, including at the Port of Olympia. McGregor is also active on a number of community boards. If elected to serve again, he wants to improve economic investment in the community, prioritize environmental stewardship, and lead by engaging the community. Unfortunately, in 2021, McGregor vocally opposed public health guidelines that were put in place to keep us all safe during the pandemic.
We recommend Vasavada for Port of Olympia, District 1 because of her strong platform and impressive endorsements from progressive advocates.
Last updated: 2023-10-12
-
-
Maggie Sanders is running for the newly created District 4 seat on the Port of Olympia. Sanders identifies as a “triple citizen” of the United States, of the Washington community at-large, and of the Makah tribe. She has dedicated her career to public service, working in environmental stewardship, workforce development, and community advocacy, particularly for tribal representation and within the Makah tribe. In her most recent position, Sanders advocated for clean air, representing local tribes as a commissioner on the Environmental Protection Agency’s National Tribal Air Association.
If elected, Sanders wants to be a staunch advocate for environmental and community concerns at the port. She believes that there can’t be economic development without both community and workforce development to ensure that port investments can lift all boats. Her extensive experience in public service and expertise in public administration paired with her demonstrated progressive values position her well to execute her campaign priorities. In this race, Sanders has earned a large number of progressive endorsements, which speaks well to her ability to work together and build consensus on tough issues.
Also in this race is Rose Chiu Gundersen, a first-time, moderate candidate and business leader. Gundersen grew up in Hong Kong and has established herself strongly in the community as a small business owner, liaison for small businesses to the Washington State Department of Labor, and most recently in high-level retail services for the Washington Retail Association. She co-founded Washington Trafficking Prevention. In this campaign, her top priority is to beautify the waterfront to make Thurston County a destination, and she also wants to combat human trafficking, create jobs, and invest in some environmental clean-ups.
We recommend Maggie Sanders for Port of Olympia, District 4 to bring her impressive progressive vision and public service experience to the commission.
Last updated: 2023-10-12Maggie Sanders
Maggie Sanders is running for the newly created District 4 seat on the Port of Olympia. Sanders identifies as a “triple citizen” of the United States, of the Washington community at-large, and of the Makah tribe.
Maggie Sanders is running for the newly created District 4 seat on the Port of Olympia. Sanders identifies as a “triple citizen” of the United States, of the Washington community at-large, and of the Makah tribe. She has dedicated her career to public service, working in environmental stewardship, workforce development, and community advocacy, particularly for tribal representation and within the Makah tribe. In her most recent position, Sanders advocated for clean air, representing local tribes as a commissioner on the Environmental Protection Agency’s National Tribal Air Association.
If elected, Sanders wants to be a staunch advocate for environmental and community concerns at the port. She believes that there can’t be economic development without both community and workforce development to ensure that port investments can lift all boats. Her extensive experience in public service and expertise in public administration paired with her demonstrated progressive values position her well to execute her campaign priorities. In this race, Sanders has earned a large number of progressive endorsements, which speaks well to her ability to work together and build consensus on tough issues.
Also in this race is Rose Chiu Gundersen, a first-time, moderate candidate and business leader. Gundersen grew up in Hong Kong and has established herself strongly in the community as a small business owner, liaison for small businesses to the Washington State Department of Labor, and most recently in high-level retail services for the Washington Retail Association. She co-founded Washington Trafficking Prevention. In this campaign, her top priority is to beautify the waterfront to make Thurston County a destination, and she also wants to combat human trafficking, create jobs, and invest in some environmental clean-ups.
We recommend Maggie Sanders for Port of Olympia, District 4 to bring her impressive progressive vision and public service experience to the commission.
Maggie Sanders
Maggie Sanders is running for the newly created District 4 seat on the Port of Olympia. Sanders identifies as a “triple citizen” of the United States, of the Washington community at-large, and of the Makah tribe.
-
-
Maggie Sanders is running for the newly created District 4 seat on the Port of Olympia. Sanders identifies as a “triple citizen” of the United States, of the Washington community at-large, and of the Makah tribe. She has dedicated her career to public service, working in environmental stewardship, workforce development, and community advocacy, particularly for tribal representation and within the Makah tribe. In her most recent position, Sanders advocated for clean air, representing local tribes as a commissioner on the Environmental Protection Agency’s National Tribal Air Association.
If elected, Sanders wants to be a staunch advocate for environmental and community concerns at the port. She believes that there can’t be economic development without both community and workforce development to ensure that port investments can lift all boats. Her extensive experience in public service and expertise in public administration paired with her demonstrated progressive values position her well to execute her campaign priorities. In this race, Sanders has earned a large number of progressive endorsements, which speaks well to her ability to work together and build consensus on tough issues.
Also in this race is Rose Chiu Gundersen, a first-time, moderate candidate and business leader. Gundersen grew up in Hong Kong and has established herself strongly in the community as a small business owner, liaison for small businesses to the Washington State Department of Labor, and most recently in high-level retail services for the Washington Retail Association. She co-founded Washington Trafficking Prevention. In this campaign, her top priority is to beautify the waterfront to make Thurston County a destination, and she also wants to combat human trafficking, create jobs, and invest in some environmental clean-ups.
We recommend Maggie Sanders for Port of Olympia, District 4 to bring her impressive progressive vision and public service experience to the commission.
Last updated: 2023-10-12
-
-
First-time candidate Sarah Tonge is running to serve the Port of Olympia in the newly created District 5. Tonge has more than a decade of experience working in information technology and she volunteers with the local Democrats and as a member of Moms Demand Action.
Tonge is running a progressive campaign that strongly emphasizes port leadership that protects a green future for Thurston County. Her campaign priorities include engaging the port’s diverse community and industry stakeholders, bringing tech upgrades to improve port efficiency, moving away from destructive logging, and putting the community and the ecosystem above special interests. She has earned endorsements from the county Democrats and local progressive organizations, as well as community members and elected officials.
The other candidate in this race is Troy Kirby, a local cider bar owner, former Lacey City Council candidate, and sports consultant. Kirby is running on a platform that lacks progressive ideas to uplift Olympia and instead focuses on potentially cutting community funding and upgrading port equipment.
Thurston County residents deserve a port commissioner who will approach the seat with a thoughtful, community-centric vision. Sarah Tonge is the best choice for the Port of Olympia in District 5.
Last updated: 2023-10-12Sarah Tonge
First-time candidate Sarah Tonge is running to serve the Port of Olympia in the newly created District 5. Tonge has more than a decade of experience working in information technology and she volunteers with the local Democrats and as a member of Moms Demand Action.
First-time candidate Sarah Tonge is running to serve the Port of Olympia in the newly created District 5. Tonge has more than a decade of experience working in information technology and she volunteers with the local Democrats and as a member of Moms Demand Action.
Tonge is running a progressive campaign that strongly emphasizes port leadership that protects a green future for Thurston County. Her campaign priorities include engaging the port’s diverse community and industry stakeholders, bringing tech upgrades to improve port efficiency, moving away from destructive logging, and putting the community and the ecosystem above special interests. She has earned endorsements from the county Democrats and local progressive organizations, as well as community members and elected officials.
The other candidate in this race is Troy Kirby, a local cider bar owner, former Lacey City Council candidate, and sports consultant. Kirby is running on a platform that lacks progressive ideas to uplift Olympia and instead focuses on potentially cutting community funding and upgrading port equipment.
Thurston County residents deserve a port commissioner who will approach the seat with a thoughtful, community-centric vision. Sarah Tonge is the best choice for the Port of Olympia in District 5.
Sarah Tonge
First-time candidate Sarah Tonge is running to serve the Port of Olympia in the newly created District 5. Tonge has more than a decade of experience working in information technology and she volunteers with the local Democrats and as a member of Moms Demand Action.
-
-
First-time candidate Sarah Tonge is running to serve the Port of Olympia in the newly created District 5. Tonge has more than a decade of experience working in information technology and she volunteers with the local Democrats and as a member of Moms Demand Action.
Tonge is running a progressive campaign that strongly emphasizes port leadership that protects a green future for Thurston County. Her campaign priorities include engaging the port’s diverse community and industry stakeholders, bringing tech upgrades to improve port efficiency, moving away from destructive logging, and putting the community and the ecosystem above special interests. She has earned endorsements from the county Democrats and local progressive organizations, as well as community members and elected officials.
The other candidate in this race is Troy Kirby, a local cider bar owner, former Lacey City Council candidate, and sports consultant. Kirby is running on a platform that lacks progressive ideas to uplift Olympia and instead focuses on potentially cutting community funding and upgrading port equipment.
Thurston County residents deserve a port commissioner who will approach the seat with a thoughtful, community-centric vision. Sarah Tonge is the best choice for the Port of Olympia in District 5.
Last updated: 2023-10-12
-
-
Sam Cho is running unopposed for re-election for Seattle Port Commissioner, Position 2. Before his election in 2019, he served on Gov. Jay Inslee’s Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs and previously worked on trade issues for a member of Congress. Aside from his work on the commission, Cho also serves on the Bellevue Chamber of Commerce and the Washington Council on International Trade.
Cho has been a standout on the commission in his first term. When Cho became commission president in 2022, he was the first Asian American to serve in the role in port history. As the son of South Korean immigrants and a fluent Korean speaker, Cho has led several international trade efforts with Korea, including creating a green trade corridor with the Port of Busan and working with Hyundai and KIA to make the Port of Seattle the exclusive importer of their cars.
Cho deserves your vote for Position 2 on the Seattle Port Commission.Last updated: 2023-10-18Sam Cho
Sam Cho is running unopposed for re-election for Seattle Port Commissioner, Position 2. Before his election in 2019, he served on Gov. Jay Inslee’s Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs and previously worked on trade issues for a member of Congress.
Sam Cho is running unopposed for re-election for Seattle Port Commissioner, Position 2. Before his election in 2019, he served on Gov. Jay Inslee’s Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs and previously worked on trade issues for a member of Congress. Aside from his work on the commission, Cho also serves on the Bellevue Chamber of Commerce and the Washington Council on International Trade.
Cho has been a standout on the commission in his first term. When Cho became commission president in 2022, he was the first Asian American to serve in the role in port history. As the son of South Korean immigrants and a fluent Korean speaker, Cho has led several international trade efforts with Korea, including creating a green trade corridor with the Port of Busan and working with Hyundai and KIA to make the Port of Seattle the exclusive importer of their cars.
Cho deserves your vote for Position 2 on the Seattle Port Commission.Sam Cho
Sam Cho is running unopposed for re-election for Seattle Port Commissioner, Position 2. Before his election in 2019, he served on Gov. Jay Inslee’s Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs and previously worked on trade issues for a member of Congress.
-
-
Sam Cho is running unopposed for re-election for Seattle Port Commissioner, Position 2. Before his election in 2019, he served on Gov. Jay Inslee’s Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs and previously worked on trade issues for a member of Congress. Aside from his work on the commission, Cho also serves on the Bellevue Chamber of Commerce and the Washington Council on International Trade.
Cho has been a standout on the commission in his first term. When Cho became commission president in 2022, he was the first Asian American to serve in the role in port history. As the son of South Korean immigrants and a fluent Korean speaker, Cho has led several international trade efforts with Korea, including creating a green trade corridor with the Port of Busan and working with Hyundai and KIA to make the Port of Seattle the exclusive importer of their cars.
Cho deserves your vote for Position 2 on the Seattle Port Commission.Last updated: 2023-10-18
-
-
Incumbent Fred Felleman is an environmental consultant and marine biologist. He is running for re-election to the Seattle Port Commission, Position 5, as the senior member of the commission, having served since 2016. With his science background, Felleman has pledged to continue supporting environmentally friendly reforms at the port.
As commissioner, Felleman has focused on fighting climate change and increasing the port's green energy jobs. He has been a leader on the commission when it comes to protecting orcas, publicly opposing the dangerous Kinder Morgan Trans Mountain pipeline, and advocating for well-paying jobs. Elected commission president in 2021, he has recently supported more efficient and greener policies at the port to reduce pollution, including adding solar panels to the Fishermen's Terminal's net shed and powering new docks so ships don't have to idle and burn additional fuel. Felleman often supports social causes as well, including condemning Trump's Muslim ban and government agencies’ response at the airport, as well as welcoming Ukrainian refugees, with Washington hosting 16,000 refugees, the third most among U.S. states.
Challenging Felleman is Jesse Tam, the managing director for Mega Pacific Investments, a strategic development consulting firm. He is a former parks commissioner for the city of Newcastle, as well as past president and current board director for the Greater Seattle Chinese Chamber of Commerce, among other roles.
Tam states that he's running to use his business experience to source well-paying union jobs, negotiate business deals, and lead on climate change. While we agree with Tam's listed priorities, Felleman has been an excellent environmental advocate and scientific mind on the board, and we don't see a strong case for how Tam would bring progressive change to the port.
Felleman has earned your vote for re-election to the Port of Seattle, Position #5.Last updated: 2023-10-19Fred Felleman
Incumbent Fred Felleman is an environmental consultant and marine biologist. He is running for re-election to the Seattle Port Commission, Position 5, as the senior member of the commission, having served since 2016.
Incumbent Fred Felleman is an environmental consultant and marine biologist. He is running for re-election to the Seattle Port Commission, Position 5, as the senior member of the commission, having served since 2016. With his science background, Felleman has pledged to continue supporting environmentally friendly reforms at the port.
As commissioner, Felleman has focused on fighting climate change and increasing the port's green energy jobs. He has been a leader on the commission when it comes to protecting orcas, publicly opposing the dangerous Kinder Morgan Trans Mountain pipeline, and advocating for well-paying jobs. Elected commission president in 2021, he has recently supported more efficient and greener policies at the port to reduce pollution, including adding solar panels to the Fishermen's Terminal's net shed and powering new docks so ships don't have to idle and burn additional fuel. Felleman often supports social causes as well, including condemning Trump's Muslim ban and government agencies’ response at the airport, as well as welcoming Ukrainian refugees, with Washington hosting 16,000 refugees, the third most among U.S. states.
Challenging Felleman is Jesse Tam, the managing director for Mega Pacific Investments, a strategic development consulting firm. He is a former parks commissioner for the city of Newcastle, as well as past president and current board director for the Greater Seattle Chinese Chamber of Commerce, among other roles.
Tam states that he's running to use his business experience to source well-paying union jobs, negotiate business deals, and lead on climate change. While we agree with Tam's listed priorities, Felleman has been an excellent environmental advocate and scientific mind on the board, and we don't see a strong case for how Tam would bring progressive change to the port.
Felleman has earned your vote for re-election to the Port of Seattle, Position #5.Fred Felleman
Incumbent Fred Felleman is an environmental consultant and marine biologist. He is running for re-election to the Seattle Port Commission, Position 5, as the senior member of the commission, having served since 2016.
-
-
Incumbent Fred Felleman is an environmental consultant and marine biologist. He is running for re-election to the Seattle Port Commission, Position 5, as the senior member of the commission, having served since 2016. With his science background, Felleman has pledged to continue supporting environmentally friendly reforms at the port.
As commissioner, Felleman has focused on fighting climate change and increasing the port's green energy jobs. He has been a leader on the commission when it comes to protecting orcas, publicly opposing the dangerous Kinder Morgan Trans Mountain pipeline, and advocating for well-paying jobs. Elected commission president in 2021, he has recently supported more efficient and greener policies at the port to reduce pollution, including adding solar panels to the Fishermen's Terminal's net shed and powering new docks so ships don't have to idle and burn additional fuel. Felleman often supports social causes as well, including condemning Trump's Muslim ban and government agencies’ response at the airport, as well as welcoming Ukrainian refugees, with Washington hosting 16,000 refugees, the third most among U.S. states.
Challenging Felleman is Jesse Tam, the managing director for Mega Pacific Investments, a strategic development consulting firm. He is a former parks commissioner for the city of Newcastle, as well as past president and current board director for the Greater Seattle Chinese Chamber of Commerce, among other roles.
Tam states that he's running to use his business experience to source well-paying union jobs, negotiate business deals, and lead on climate change. While we agree with Tam's listed priorities, Felleman has been an excellent environmental advocate and scientific mind on the board, and we don't see a strong case for how Tam would bring progressive change to the port.
Felleman has earned your vote for re-election to the Port of Seattle, Position #5.Last updated: 2023-10-19
-
-
Incumbent commissioner, Marine Corps veteran, and port commission president Deanna Keller is running for re-election to Position 3. Keller serves on multiple boards, including the Transportation Club of Tacoma, Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber, Tacoma Propeller Club, Rotary Club of Gig Harbor, and the Northwest Marine Trade Association.
As co-chair of the Northwest Seaport Alliance (NWSA), which represents the cargo partnership between the ports of Seattle and Tacoma, Keller contributed to the Puget Sound Zero-Emissions Truck Collaborative, which aims for zero-emission drayage trucking in the Puget Sound region by 2050 or earlier.
If re-elected, Keller wants to protect water quality, support targeted cleanup projects around Commencement Bay, fund projects to reduce congestion and increase port safety measures, and more. She has racked up endorsements from both local Republican and Democratic organizations, as well as elected leaders from both sides of the aisle.
We recommend Keller because of her experience in port issues and broad set of endorsements.Last updated: 2023-10-18Deanna Keller
Incumbent commissioner, Marine Corps veteran, and port commission president Deanna Keller is running for re-election to Position 3.
Incumbent commissioner, Marine Corps veteran, and port commission president Deanna Keller is running for re-election to Position 3. Keller serves on multiple boards, including the Transportation Club of Tacoma, Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber, Tacoma Propeller Club, Rotary Club of Gig Harbor, and the Northwest Marine Trade Association.
As co-chair of the Northwest Seaport Alliance (NWSA), which represents the cargo partnership between the ports of Seattle and Tacoma, Keller contributed to the Puget Sound Zero-Emissions Truck Collaborative, which aims for zero-emission drayage trucking in the Puget Sound region by 2050 or earlier.
If re-elected, Keller wants to protect water quality, support targeted cleanup projects around Commencement Bay, fund projects to reduce congestion and increase port safety measures, and more. She has racked up endorsements from both local Republican and Democratic organizations, as well as elected leaders from both sides of the aisle.
We recommend Keller because of her experience in port issues and broad set of endorsements.Deanna Keller
Incumbent commissioner, Marine Corps veteran, and port commission president Deanna Keller is running for re-election to Position 3.
-
-
Incumbent commissioner, Marine Corps veteran, and port commission president Deanna Keller is running for re-election to Position 3. Keller serves on multiple boards, including the Transportation Club of Tacoma, Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber, Tacoma Propeller Club, Rotary Club of Gig Harbor, and the Northwest Marine Trade Association.
As co-chair of the Northwest Seaport Alliance (NWSA), which represents the cargo partnership between the ports of Seattle and Tacoma, Keller contributed to the Puget Sound Zero-Emissions Truck Collaborative, which aims for zero-emission drayage trucking in the Puget Sound region by 2050 or earlier.
If re-elected, Keller wants to protect water quality, support targeted cleanup projects around Commencement Bay, fund projects to reduce congestion and increase port safety measures, and more. She has racked up endorsements from both local Republican and Democratic organizations, as well as elected leaders from both sides of the aisle.
We recommend Keller because of her experience in port issues and broad set of endorsements.Last updated: 2023-10-18
-
-
Jeanette Twitty is the founder and partner of Homeward Bound, a program that provides life skills training for those who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. She is also a member of the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce, the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce, and a board member of the Washington League of Minority Voters, among other roles.
Though Twitty has much experience in community service and leadership, her vision for the port is somewhat lacking. She states that she's running to bring good jobs and prevent pollution, bring more equity and diversity to the port, and sustainably invest, but her campaign website lacks detail about what policies in particular she advocates for or would do to change things. Her campaign materials, similarly, say that she will maintain and enhance partnerships that are critical to the port's success and address the port's impact on local communities, though again no specifics are provided. She has been endorsed by Pierce County Democratic Central Committee but has not earned as much support as her opponent in this race.Last updated: 2023-10-19Jeannette Twitty
Jeanette Twitty is the founder and partner of Homeward Bound, a program that provides life skills training for those who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.
Jeanette Twitty is the founder and partner of Homeward Bound, a program that provides life skills training for those who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. She is also a member of the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce, the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce, and a board member of the Washington League of Minority Voters, among other roles.
Though Twitty has much experience in community service and leadership, her vision for the port is somewhat lacking. She states that she's running to bring good jobs and prevent pollution, bring more equity and diversity to the port, and sustainably invest, but her campaign website lacks detail about what policies in particular she advocates for or would do to change things. Her campaign materials, similarly, say that she will maintain and enhance partnerships that are critical to the port's success and address the port's impact on local communities, though again no specifics are provided. She has been endorsed by Pierce County Democratic Central Committee but has not earned as much support as her opponent in this race.Jeannette Twitty
Jeanette Twitty is the founder and partner of Homeward Bound, a program that provides life skills training for those who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.
-
-
Jeanette Twitty is the founder and partner of Homeward Bound, a program that provides life skills training for those who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. She is also a member of the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce, the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce, and a board member of the Washington League of Minority Voters, among other roles.
Though Twitty has much experience in community service and leadership, her vision for the port is somewhat lacking. She states that she's running to bring good jobs and prevent pollution, bring more equity and diversity to the port, and sustainably invest, but her campaign website lacks detail about what policies in particular she advocates for or would do to change things. Her campaign materials, similarly, say that she will maintain and enhance partnerships that are critical to the port's success and address the port's impact on local communities, though again no specifics are provided. She has been endorsed by Pierce County Democratic Central Committee but has not earned as much support as her opponent in this race.Last updated: 2023-10-19
-
-
Attorney Kristin Ang is running for re-election for Port of Tacoma Commissioner, Position 5 to continue building a sustainable vision for industry at the port. She seeks to protect community health and the environment by reducing noise and air pollution, improving water quality, and increasing shore power technology. Ang opposes the port's property tax and supports pressing businesses to clean up their share of pollution, developing a comprehensive public engagement plan, and working with tribes, businesses, and local government to create shared agendas for the port.
Ang is running against Dave Bryant, a Navy veteran. Voters may find this matchup familiar - Bryant and Ang also ran against each other in 2019, with Ang winning by about 3 percent. This year, Bryant's campaign is similar to his last run. He wants to optimize the loading and offloading of goods with surface transportation, update the port's infrastructure, and use his knowledge of operating deep draft ships to make the port more competitive. However, he still lacks Ang's knowledge and experience when it comes to environmental conservation and creating clean energy jobs.
Ang has worked hard as a member of the port’s tribal liaison committee, diversity, equity, and inclusion committee, and as a board member of the Central Puget Sound Economic Development District and the Washington Council on International Trade. She has earned your vote for Port of Tacoma Commission, Position 5.
Last updated: 2023-10-19Kristin Ang
Attorney Kristin Ang is running for re-election for Port of Tacoma Commissioner, Position 5 to continue building a sustainable vision for industry at the port.
Attorney Kristin Ang is running for re-election for Port of Tacoma Commissioner, Position 5 to continue building a sustainable vision for industry at the port. She seeks to protect community health and the environment by reducing noise and air pollution, improving water quality, and increasing shore power technology. Ang opposes the port's property tax and supports pressing businesses to clean up their share of pollution, developing a comprehensive public engagement plan, and working with tribes, businesses, and local government to create shared agendas for the port.
Ang is running against Dave Bryant, a Navy veteran. Voters may find this matchup familiar - Bryant and Ang also ran against each other in 2019, with Ang winning by about 3 percent. This year, Bryant's campaign is similar to his last run. He wants to optimize the loading and offloading of goods with surface transportation, update the port's infrastructure, and use his knowledge of operating deep draft ships to make the port more competitive. However, he still lacks Ang's knowledge and experience when it comes to environmental conservation and creating clean energy jobs.
Ang has worked hard as a member of the port’s tribal liaison committee, diversity, equity, and inclusion committee, and as a board member of the Central Puget Sound Economic Development District and the Washington Council on International Trade. She has earned your vote for Port of Tacoma Commission, Position 5.
Kristin Ang
Attorney Kristin Ang is running for re-election for Port of Tacoma Commissioner, Position 5 to continue building a sustainable vision for industry at the port.
-
-
Attorney Kristin Ang is running for re-election for Port of Tacoma Commissioner, Position 5 to continue building a sustainable vision for industry at the port. She seeks to protect community health and the environment by reducing noise and air pollution, improving water quality, and increasing shore power technology. Ang opposes the port's property tax and supports pressing businesses to clean up their share of pollution, developing a comprehensive public engagement plan, and working with tribes, businesses, and local government to create shared agendas for the port.
Ang is running against Dave Bryant, a Navy veteran. Voters may find this matchup familiar - Bryant and Ang also ran against each other in 2019, with Ang winning by about 3 percent. This year, Bryant's campaign is similar to his last run. He wants to optimize the loading and offloading of goods with surface transportation, update the port's infrastructure, and use his knowledge of operating deep draft ships to make the port more competitive. However, he still lacks Ang's knowledge and experience when it comes to environmental conservation and creating clean energy jobs.
Ang has worked hard as a member of the port’s tribal liaison committee, diversity, equity, and inclusion committee, and as a board member of the Central Puget Sound Economic Development District and the Washington Council on International Trade. She has earned your vote for Port of Tacoma Commission, Position 5.
Last updated: 2023-10-19
-
-
Incumbent Don Orange is running for re-election to the Port of Vancouver, District 1. He owns a mechanic shop and has lived in Clark County for over 30 years. Orange also serves on the Battle Ground School District Auto Advisory Council and is a past president of the Columbia Pastoral Counseling Center.
Prior to his election in 2017, Orange was a dedicated opponent of the dirty and dangerous Tesoro-Savage project, which would have been the largest oil-by-rail terminal in the country. This race was particularly notable since oil companies paid around half a million dollars in an attempt to defeat Orange's greener campaign against his opponent. Orange voted alongside his fellow council members in 2018 to unanimously end Vancouver Energy's lease on the oil-by-rail terminal. Now, he serves to make the port more environmentally friendly and attract more family-wage jobs.
Orange's opponent is former restaurant owner and manager Russell Brent. A former board member of the Washington Hospitality Association, Brent has served in many roles in the community, including as a past board chair of the Battle Ground Chamber of Commerce and Clark County YMCA. Brent has faced criticism recently for using a fake union label on his campaign materials. Brent hasn't make a solid case for why voters should elect him over incumbent Orange, who has spent years fighting for Clark County families and is committed to preserving the environment for generations to come.
Orange has earned strong support in this campaign from local and state leaders because of his proven record at the port. We recommend re-electing Don Orange for Port of Vancouver from District 1.Last updated: 2023-11-03Don Orange
Incumbent Don Orange is running for re-election to the Port of Vancouver, District 1. He owns a mechanic shop and has lived in Clark County for over 30 years.
Incumbent Don Orange is running for re-election to the Port of Vancouver, District 1. He owns a mechanic shop and has lived in Clark County for over 30 years. Orange also serves on the Battle Ground School District Auto Advisory Council and is a past president of the Columbia Pastoral Counseling Center.
Prior to his election in 2017, Orange was a dedicated opponent of the dirty and dangerous Tesoro-Savage project, which would have been the largest oil-by-rail terminal in the country. This race was particularly notable since oil companies paid around half a million dollars in an attempt to defeat Orange's greener campaign against his opponent. Orange voted alongside his fellow council members in 2018 to unanimously end Vancouver Energy's lease on the oil-by-rail terminal. Now, he serves to make the port more environmentally friendly and attract more family-wage jobs.
Orange's opponent is former restaurant owner and manager Russell Brent. A former board member of the Washington Hospitality Association, Brent has served in many roles in the community, including as a past board chair of the Battle Ground Chamber of Commerce and Clark County YMCA. Brent has faced criticism recently for using a fake union label on his campaign materials. Brent hasn't make a solid case for why voters should elect him over incumbent Orange, who has spent years fighting for Clark County families and is committed to preserving the environment for generations to come.
Orange has earned strong support in this campaign from local and state leaders because of his proven record at the port. We recommend re-electing Don Orange for Port of Vancouver from District 1.Don Orange
Incumbent Don Orange is running for re-election to the Port of Vancouver, District 1. He owns a mechanic shop and has lived in Clark County for over 30 years.
-
-
Incumbent Don Orange is running for re-election to the Port of Vancouver, District 1. He owns a mechanic shop and has lived in Clark County for over 30 years. Orange also serves on the Battle Ground School District Auto Advisory Council and is a past president of the Columbia Pastoral Counseling Center.
Prior to his election in 2017, Orange was a dedicated opponent of the dirty and dangerous Tesoro-Savage project, which would have been the largest oil-by-rail terminal in the country. This race was particularly notable since oil companies paid around half a million dollars in an attempt to defeat Orange's greener campaign against his opponent. Orange voted alongside his fellow council members in 2018 to unanimously end Vancouver Energy's lease on the oil-by-rail terminal. Now, he serves to make the port more environmentally friendly and attract more family-wage jobs.
Orange's opponent is former restaurant owner and manager Russell Brent. A former board member of the Washington Hospitality Association, Brent has served in many roles in the community, including as a past board chair of the Battle Ground Chamber of Commerce and Clark County YMCA. Brent has faced criticism recently for using a fake union label on his campaign materials. Brent hasn't make a solid case for why voters should elect him over incumbent Orange, who has spent years fighting for Clark County families and is committed to preserving the environment for generations to come.
Orange has earned strong support in this campaign from local and state leaders because of his proven record at the port. We recommend re-electing Don Orange for Port of Vancouver from District 1.Last updated: 2023-11-03
-
-
Small business consultant Amy Schwab is running for Port of Walla Walla in District 2. She previously worked at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory before retiring in Walla Walla. She is active in the community, serving on the board of the Washington Economic Development Finance Authority and co-founding the Grandmother's Roundtable.
Schwab is running to raise wages for local port workers and place more emphasis on engaging small local businesses, not just the large out-of-state businesses that are typically the focus of the port. She also wants to push the port to become a leader in clean energy to create the next generation of jobs and businesses in Walla Walla County. This includes preparing the regional airport to accommodate electric aircraft, which are already being tested locally.
Schwab is running against Mary Wollmuth, who co-founded the Three Rivers Winery. Wollmuth is focused on implementing the Port's economic plan and wants to work on housing affordability. However, she provides few other details on her campaign website. Notably, either candidate would be the first woman to serve as a Walla Walla Port Commissioner since its founding in 1953.
Schwab's experience in business and clean energy and her forward-looking vision for the Port of Walla Walla make her the best choice in this race.
Last updated: 2023-10-18Amy Schwab
Small business consultant Amy Schwab is running for Port of Walla Walla in District 2. She previously worked at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory before retiring in Walla Walla.
Small business consultant Amy Schwab is running for Port of Walla Walla in District 2. She previously worked at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory before retiring in Walla Walla. She is active in the community, serving on the board of the Washington Economic Development Finance Authority and co-founding the Grandmother's Roundtable.
Schwab is running to raise wages for local port workers and place more emphasis on engaging small local businesses, not just the large out-of-state businesses that are typically the focus of the port. She also wants to push the port to become a leader in clean energy to create the next generation of jobs and businesses in Walla Walla County. This includes preparing the regional airport to accommodate electric aircraft, which are already being tested locally.
Schwab is running against Mary Wollmuth, who co-founded the Three Rivers Winery. Wollmuth is focused on implementing the Port's economic plan and wants to work on housing affordability. However, she provides few other details on her campaign website. Notably, either candidate would be the first woman to serve as a Walla Walla Port Commissioner since its founding in 1953.
Schwab's experience in business and clean energy and her forward-looking vision for the Port of Walla Walla make her the best choice in this race.
Amy Schwab
Small business consultant Amy Schwab is running for Port of Walla Walla in District 2. She previously worked at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory before retiring in Walla Walla.
-
-
Small business consultant Amy Schwab is running for Port of Walla Walla in District 2. She previously worked at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory before retiring in Walla Walla. She is active in the community, serving on the board of the Washington Economic Development Finance Authority and co-founding the Grandmother's Roundtable.
Schwab is running to raise wages for local port workers and place more emphasis on engaging small local businesses, not just the large out-of-state businesses that are typically the focus of the port. She also wants to push the port to become a leader in clean energy to create the next generation of jobs and businesses in Walla Walla County. This includes preparing the regional airport to accommodate electric aircraft, which are already being tested locally.
Schwab is running against Mary Wollmuth, who co-founded the Three Rivers Winery. Wollmuth is focused on implementing the Port's economic plan and wants to work on housing affordability. However, she provides few other details on her campaign website. Notably, either candidate would be the first woman to serve as a Walla Walla Port Commissioner since its founding in 1953.
Schwab's experience in business and clean energy and her forward-looking vision for the Port of Walla Walla make her the best choice in this race.
Last updated: 2023-10-18
Depending on where you live, you may have the following city races on your ballot.
-
-
Incumbent and mayor pro-tem Mike Wallin is running for another term in Longview City Council, Position 1. Wallin works in real estate and he joined the council in 2020.
Wallin is running on a moderate platform to work with police on public safety and accountability, upgrade the city’s clean water infrastructure, invest in public spaces like parks and the library, and continue repairing streets and sidewalks. In this race, he has earned the support of a number of local unions, the county Democrats, and community leaders.
Kalei LaFave is challenging Wallin in this race on a Republican-endorsed platform to restrict public funding and prioritize business interests above community needs. LaFave is the president and CEO of United Way Cowlitz and Wahkiakum Counties and has served on a number of community boards and commissions.
While not a progressive, Mike Wallin is the better choice in this race for Longview City Council, Position 1.
Last updated: 2023-11-06Mike Wallin
Incumbent and mayor pro-tem Mike Wallin is running for another term in Longview City Council, Position 1. Wallin works in real estate and he joined the council in 2020.
Incumbent and mayor pro-tem Mike Wallin is running for another term in Longview City Council, Position 1. Wallin works in real estate and he joined the council in 2020.
Wallin is running on a moderate platform to work with police on public safety and accountability, upgrade the city’s clean water infrastructure, invest in public spaces like parks and the library, and continue repairing streets and sidewalks. In this race, he has earned the support of a number of local unions, the county Democrats, and community leaders.
Kalei LaFave is challenging Wallin in this race on a Republican-endorsed platform to restrict public funding and prioritize business interests above community needs. LaFave is the president and CEO of United Way Cowlitz and Wahkiakum Counties and has served on a number of community boards and commissions.
While not a progressive, Mike Wallin is the better choice in this race for Longview City Council, Position 1.
Mike Wallin
Incumbent and mayor pro-tem Mike Wallin is running for another term in Longview City Council, Position 1. Wallin works in real estate and he joined the council in 2020.
-
-
Incumbent and mayor pro-tem Mike Wallin is running for another term in Longview City Council, Position 1. Wallin works in real estate and he joined the council in 2020.
Wallin is running on a moderate platform to work with police on public safety and accountability, upgrade the city’s clean water infrastructure, invest in public spaces like parks and the library, and continue repairing streets and sidewalks. In this race, he has earned the support of a number of local unions, the county Democrats, and community leaders.
Kalei LaFave is challenging Wallin in this race on a Republican-endorsed platform to restrict public funding and prioritize business interests above community needs. LaFave is the president and CEO of United Way Cowlitz and Wahkiakum Counties and has served on a number of community boards and commissions.
While not a progressive, Mike Wallin is the better choice in this race for Longview City Council, Position 1.
Last updated: 2023-11-06
-
-
Incumbent council member Christopher Ortiz is running for another term on the Longview City Council in Position 3. Ortiz joined the council in March 2022 by appointment. He also serves on the City Public Works Sub-Committee and the Homeless Plan Development Committee.
In office, Ortiz has prided himself on leading as an accessible and responsive council member. His community-focused platform emphasizes the principles of strong listening, asking difficult questions, and leading with transparency. He has earned the support from the county Democrats in this race.
Erik Halvorson is Ortiz’s Republican-endorsed challenger in this race. Halvorson is running to limit community funding while expanding police budgets, but we know that strong social programs, good wages, affordable health care, and stable housing are what keep us safe. His priorities are heavily business-oriented and lean away from community needs.
We recommend Christopher Ortiz for another term in Longview City Council, Position 3.
Last updated: 2023-11-06Christopher Ortiz
Incumbent council member Christopher Ortiz is running for another term on the Longview City Council in Position 3. Ortiz joined the council in March 2022 by appointment. He also serves on the City Public Works Sub-Committee and the Homeless Plan Development Committee.
Incumbent council member Christopher Ortiz is running for another term on the Longview City Council in Position 3. Ortiz joined the council in March 2022 by appointment. He also serves on the City Public Works Sub-Committee and the Homeless Plan Development Committee.
In office, Ortiz has prided himself on leading as an accessible and responsive council member. His community-focused platform emphasizes the principles of strong listening, asking difficult questions, and leading with transparency. He has earned the support from the county Democrats in this race.
Erik Halvorson is Ortiz’s Republican-endorsed challenger in this race. Halvorson is running to limit community funding while expanding police budgets, but we know that strong social programs, good wages, affordable health care, and stable housing are what keep us safe. His priorities are heavily business-oriented and lean away from community needs.
We recommend Christopher Ortiz for another term in Longview City Council, Position 3.
Christopher Ortiz
Incumbent council member Christopher Ortiz is running for another term on the Longview City Council in Position 3. Ortiz joined the council in March 2022 by appointment. He also serves on the City Public Works Sub-Committee and the Homeless Plan Development Committee.
-
-
Incumbent council member Christopher Ortiz is running for another term on the Longview City Council in Position 3. Ortiz joined the council in March 2022 by appointment. He also serves on the City Public Works Sub-Committee and the Homeless Plan Development Committee.
In office, Ortiz has prided himself on leading as an accessible and responsive council member. His community-focused platform emphasizes the principles of strong listening, asking difficult questions, and leading with transparency. He has earned the support from the county Democrats in this race.
Erik Halvorson is Ortiz’s Republican-endorsed challenger in this race. Halvorson is running to limit community funding while expanding police budgets, but we know that strong social programs, good wages, affordable health care, and stable housing are what keep us safe. His priorities are heavily business-oriented and lean away from community needs.
We recommend Christopher Ortiz for another term in Longview City Council, Position 3.
Last updated: 2023-11-06
-
Express Recommendation -
Heather Brennan is running for Anacortes School Board, Director Position 5. Brennan is a retired park maintenance professional for the city and she has worked in para-education for the school district. She is an active volunteer with youth swim coaching and other learning mentorship.
Brennan is running on a moderate platform and her top priorities include closing the opportunity gap, increasing board responsiveness and transparency, and restricting some investments in our students. She believes that her volunteer involvement with the school district and experience as a parent to students in the district qualify her to lead on the board.
Far-right extremist Edward Barton is the other candidate in this race. Though his platform appears rather innocuous, our trusted community partners have identified Barton as another conservative candidate who would like to install right-wing ideas and MAGA conspiracies in our curriculums and schools.
While there are no progressives in this race, Heather Brennan is the clear choice for Anacortes School Board, Position 5.
Last updated: 2023-11-01Heather J Brennan
Heather Brennan is running for Anacortes School Board, Director Position 5. Brennan is a retired park maintenance professional for the city and she has worked in para-education for the school district. She is an active volunteer with youth swim coaching and other learning mentorship.
Heather Brennan is running for Anacortes School Board, Director Position 5. Brennan is a retired park maintenance professional for the city and she has worked in para-education for the school district. She is an active volunteer with youth swim coaching and other learning mentorship.
Brennan is running on a moderate platform and her top priorities include closing the opportunity gap, increasing board responsiveness and transparency, and restricting some investments in our students. She believes that her volunteer involvement with the school district and experience as a parent to students in the district qualify her to lead on the board.
Far-right extremist Edward Barton is the other candidate in this race. Though his platform appears rather innocuous, our trusted community partners have identified Barton as another conservative candidate who would like to install right-wing ideas and MAGA conspiracies in our curriculums and schools.
While there are no progressives in this race, Heather Brennan is the clear choice for Anacortes School Board, Position 5.
Heather J Brennan
Heather Brennan is running for Anacortes School Board, Director Position 5. Brennan is a retired park maintenance professional for the city and she has worked in para-education for the school district. She is an active volunteer with youth swim coaching and other learning mentorship.
-
Express Recommendation
-
Heather Brennan is running for Anacortes School Board, Director Position 5. Brennan is a retired park maintenance professional for the city and she has worked in para-education for the school district. She is an active volunteer with youth swim coaching and other learning mentorship.
Brennan is running on a moderate platform and her top priorities include closing the opportunity gap, increasing board responsiveness and transparency, and restricting some investments in our students. She believes that her volunteer involvement with the school district and experience as a parent to students in the district qualify her to lead on the board.
Far-right extremist Edward Barton is the other candidate in this race. Though his platform appears rather innocuous, our trusted community partners have identified Barton as another conservative candidate who would like to install right-wing ideas and MAGA conspiracies in our curriculums and schools.
While there are no progressives in this race, Heather Brennan is the clear choice for Anacortes School Board, Position 5.
Last updated: 2023-11-01
-
-
Evan Saint Clair is running to be retained in Bainbridge Island School Board, Director District 4. Earlier this year, Saint Clair was appointed to fill Christina Hulet’s seat when she stepped down this March. Saint Claire has a background in design and photography, and currently runs two, fitness-related small businesses with his wife. He is active in the community, serving as president of the Odyssey Multiage Program, a member of the Bainbridge Island Mountain Biking Association board, and a lead volunteer with the Battle Point Astronomical Association kids program.
Saint Clair wants to make Bainbridge schools places of safety, belonging, high-quality learning, and opportunity, where students can be challenged to reach their full potential. In office, he supported a measure to ensure that the district’s LGBTQ+ community feels safe and welcome. If retained, Saint Clair wants to strengthen support for teachers and staff so that they have the resources they need to teach our students who have been left behind by the pandemic. He has earned strong endorsements in this race, including from local Democrats.
Thomas Greene is challenging Saint Clair for the seat. Greene has a background in small business executive leadership. Though he calls for more comprehensive American history programs and greater support for teachers, Greene is a more conservative candidate.
We recommend Evan Saint Clair in this race because of his progressive track record in office and commitment to making the school district a place of inclusive belonging.
Last updated: 2023-10-27Evan St. Clair
Evan Saint Clair is running to be retained in Bainbridge Island School Board, Director District 4. Earlier this year, Saint Clair was appointed to fill Christina Hulet’s seat when she stepped down this March.
Evan Saint Clair is running to be retained in Bainbridge Island School Board, Director District 4. Earlier this year, Saint Clair was appointed to fill Christina Hulet’s seat when she stepped down this March. Saint Claire has a background in design and photography, and currently runs two, fitness-related small businesses with his wife. He is active in the community, serving as president of the Odyssey Multiage Program, a member of the Bainbridge Island Mountain Biking Association board, and a lead volunteer with the Battle Point Astronomical Association kids program.
Saint Clair wants to make Bainbridge schools places of safety, belonging, high-quality learning, and opportunity, where students can be challenged to reach their full potential. In office, he supported a measure to ensure that the district’s LGBTQ+ community feels safe and welcome. If retained, Saint Clair wants to strengthen support for teachers and staff so that they have the resources they need to teach our students who have been left behind by the pandemic. He has earned strong endorsements in this race, including from local Democrats.
Thomas Greene is challenging Saint Clair for the seat. Greene has a background in small business executive leadership. Though he calls for more comprehensive American history programs and greater support for teachers, Greene is a more conservative candidate.
We recommend Evan Saint Clair in this race because of his progressive track record in office and commitment to making the school district a place of inclusive belonging.
Evan St. Clair
Evan Saint Clair is running to be retained in Bainbridge Island School Board, Director District 4. Earlier this year, Saint Clair was appointed to fill Christina Hulet’s seat when she stepped down this March.
-
-
Evan Saint Clair is running to be retained in Bainbridge Island School Board, Director District 4. Earlier this year, Saint Clair was appointed to fill Christina Hulet’s seat when she stepped down this March. Saint Claire has a background in design and photography, and currently runs two, fitness-related small businesses with his wife. He is active in the community, serving as president of the Odyssey Multiage Program, a member of the Bainbridge Island Mountain Biking Association board, and a lead volunteer with the Battle Point Astronomical Association kids program.
Saint Clair wants to make Bainbridge schools places of safety, belonging, high-quality learning, and opportunity, where students can be challenged to reach their full potential. In office, he supported a measure to ensure that the district’s LGBTQ+ community feels safe and welcome. If retained, Saint Clair wants to strengthen support for teachers and staff so that they have the resources they need to teach our students who have been left behind by the pandemic. He has earned strong endorsements in this race, including from local Democrats.
Thomas Greene is challenging Saint Clair for the seat. Greene has a background in small business executive leadership. Though he calls for more comprehensive American history programs and greater support for teachers, Greene is a more conservative candidate.
We recommend Evan Saint Clair in this race because of his progressive track record in office and commitment to making the school district a place of inclusive belonging.
Last updated: 2023-10-27
-
-
Incumbent school board director Carolyn Watson is running for re-election to the Bellevue School Board in the District 2 seat. Watson has been volunteering with Bellevue schools since 2004 and has served on the school board since 2015. She is a member of the city's PTSA Board and has previously worked as a tutor and teacher. In all of these roles, Watson has fought to improve Bellevue schools so all students are prepared for vibrant futures.
Watson's campaign platform emphasizes investing in an equitable, world-class education. She believes that in order for students to thrive, schools need the resources to care for the physical and mental health of the student body while also empowering teachers. Watson has a strong sense of transparency and community engagement, and she wants all voices to be heard where decisions are made. In this race, she earned endorsements from a host of elected officials, educators, and community organizations.
Watson faces a challenge from Ryan Sugden, a certified public accountant specializing in the restaurant industry. He is running to put his financial management skills to work on the district's budget. While he says he wants to represent diverse voices, he insists equity is merely "an accounting term", which shows a complete lack of understanding of this important issue in our schools.
Carolyn Watson is the clear choice for Bellevue School Board from District 2.
Last updated: 2023-10-13Carolyn Watson
Incumbent school board director Carolyn Watson is running for re-election to the Bellevue School Board in the District 2 seat. Watson has been volunteering with Bellevue schools since 2004 and has served on the school board since 2015.
Incumbent school board director Carolyn Watson is running for re-election to the Bellevue School Board in the District 2 seat. Watson has been volunteering with Bellevue schools since 2004 and has served on the school board since 2015. She is a member of the city's PTSA Board and has previously worked as a tutor and teacher. In all of these roles, Watson has fought to improve Bellevue schools so all students are prepared for vibrant futures.
Watson's campaign platform emphasizes investing in an equitable, world-class education. She believes that in order for students to thrive, schools need the resources to care for the physical and mental health of the student body while also empowering teachers. Watson has a strong sense of transparency and community engagement, and she wants all voices to be heard where decisions are made. In this race, she earned endorsements from a host of elected officials, educators, and community organizations.
Watson faces a challenge from Ryan Sugden, a certified public accountant specializing in the restaurant industry. He is running to put his financial management skills to work on the district's budget. While he says he wants to represent diverse voices, he insists equity is merely "an accounting term", which shows a complete lack of understanding of this important issue in our schools.
Carolyn Watson is the clear choice for Bellevue School Board from District 2.
Carolyn Watson
Incumbent school board director Carolyn Watson is running for re-election to the Bellevue School Board in the District 2 seat. Watson has been volunteering with Bellevue schools since 2004 and has served on the school board since 2015.
-
-
Incumbent school board director Carolyn Watson is running for re-election to the Bellevue School Board in the District 2 seat. Watson has been volunteering with Bellevue schools since 2004 and has served on the school board since 2015. She is a member of the city's PTSA Board and has previously worked as a tutor and teacher. In all of these roles, Watson has fought to improve Bellevue schools so all students are prepared for vibrant futures.
Watson's campaign platform emphasizes investing in an equitable, world-class education. She believes that in order for students to thrive, schools need the resources to care for the physical and mental health of the student body while also empowering teachers. Watson has a strong sense of transparency and community engagement, and she wants all voices to be heard where decisions are made. In this race, she earned endorsements from a host of elected officials, educators, and community organizations.
Watson faces a challenge from Ryan Sugden, a certified public accountant specializing in the restaurant industry. He is running to put his financial management skills to work on the district's budget. While he says he wants to represent diverse voices, he insists equity is merely "an accounting term", which shows a complete lack of understanding of this important issue in our schools.
Carolyn Watson is the clear choice for Bellevue School Board from District 2.
Last updated: 2023-10-13
-
-
Monica Webster is running unopposed for the Bellevue School Board from District 4. She works for the Washington State Health Care Authority connecting families with behavioral health treatments.
Webster is a single mother of two kids who attended Bellevue public schools. She has been a very active volunteer with the district, including serving on the Strategic Plan Steering Committee, the School Resource Officer Advisory Committee, and the advisory committee for the district's first equity plan.
Webster is running to improve student safety, focus on students' needs, and follow through on the district's equity commitments. She believes the district needs to improve transparency and communication with students and families and pledges to have an open ear, especially for people with differing opinions. Webster has also heard from staff about poor working conditions in the district and she will work to ensure Bellevue can hire and retain the most talented educators.
Webster would bring valuable perspective and experience to the board from her years of activism in the district. Monica Webster has earned your vote for Bellevue School District Director, District 4.
Last updated: 2023-10-16Monica Webster
Monica Webster is running unopposed for the Bellevue School Board from District 4. She works for the Washington State Health Care Authority connecting families with behavioral health treatments.
Monica Webster is running unopposed for the Bellevue School Board from District 4. She works for the Washington State Health Care Authority connecting families with behavioral health treatments.
Webster is a single mother of two kids who attended Bellevue public schools. She has been a very active volunteer with the district, including serving on the Strategic Plan Steering Committee, the School Resource Officer Advisory Committee, and the advisory committee for the district's first equity plan.
Webster is running to improve student safety, focus on students' needs, and follow through on the district's equity commitments. She believes the district needs to improve transparency and communication with students and families and pledges to have an open ear, especially for people with differing opinions. Webster has also heard from staff about poor working conditions in the district and she will work to ensure Bellevue can hire and retain the most talented educators.
Webster would bring valuable perspective and experience to the board from her years of activism in the district. Monica Webster has earned your vote for Bellevue School District Director, District 4.
Monica Webster
Monica Webster is running unopposed for the Bellevue School Board from District 4. She works for the Washington State Health Care Authority connecting families with behavioral health treatments.
-
-
Monica Webster is running unopposed for the Bellevue School Board from District 4. She works for the Washington State Health Care Authority connecting families with behavioral health treatments.
Webster is a single mother of two kids who attended Bellevue public schools. She has been a very active volunteer with the district, including serving on the Strategic Plan Steering Committee, the School Resource Officer Advisory Committee, and the advisory committee for the district's first equity plan.
Webster is running to improve student safety, focus on students' needs, and follow through on the district's equity commitments. She believes the district needs to improve transparency and communication with students and families and pledges to have an open ear, especially for people with differing opinions. Webster has also heard from staff about poor working conditions in the district and she will work to ensure Bellevue can hire and retain the most talented educators.
Webster would bring valuable perspective and experience to the board from her years of activism in the district. Monica Webster has earned your vote for Bellevue School District Director, District 4.
Last updated: 2023-10-16
-
Express Recommendation -
Erasmo Ruiz is running for Bethel School Board from District 2. He has worked for the last four years as a social worker and mental health professional in the state foster care system. He is also a member of the Bethel School District Career and Technical Education General Advisory Committee.
Ruiz is running to ensure every student has the resources they need to thrive. His top priority would be to advocate for more state and federal education funding to improve education without raising more regressive taxes. In addition, he wants to provide more support for teachers, improve student safety, and expand dual-language education programs.
Ruiz is challenging longtime incumbent John Manning. Despite his many years on the board, Manning has not released a website or any campaign platform as of mid-October. Manning and other incumbents recently faced significant criticism from parents and bus drivers over major staffing shortages that have left kids stranded at bus stops. Manning blamed the crisis on the pandemic and didn't directly address drivers concerns about being overworked and underpaid, as well as frequent route changes that leave parents and drivers confused. In a public letter, bus drivers said the district's "leadership is floundering" and said parents should be concerned.
Erasmo Ruiz is the clear choice for new leadership on the Bethel School Board from District 2.
Last updated: 2023-10-19Erasmo Ruiz
Erasmo Ruiz is running for Bethel School Board from District 2. He has worked for the last four years as a social worker and mental health professional in the state foster care system.
Erasmo Ruiz is running for Bethel School Board from District 2. He has worked for the last four years as a social worker and mental health professional in the state foster care system. He is also a member of the Bethel School District Career and Technical Education General Advisory Committee.
Ruiz is running to ensure every student has the resources they need to thrive. His top priority would be to advocate for more state and federal education funding to improve education without raising more regressive taxes. In addition, he wants to provide more support for teachers, improve student safety, and expand dual-language education programs.
Ruiz is challenging longtime incumbent John Manning. Despite his many years on the board, Manning has not released a website or any campaign platform as of mid-October. Manning and other incumbents recently faced significant criticism from parents and bus drivers over major staffing shortages that have left kids stranded at bus stops. Manning blamed the crisis on the pandemic and didn't directly address drivers concerns about being overworked and underpaid, as well as frequent route changes that leave parents and drivers confused. In a public letter, bus drivers said the district's "leadership is floundering" and said parents should be concerned.
Erasmo Ruiz is the clear choice for new leadership on the Bethel School Board from District 2.
Erasmo Ruiz
Erasmo Ruiz is running for Bethel School Board from District 2. He has worked for the last four years as a social worker and mental health professional in the state foster care system.
-
Express Recommendation
-
Erasmo Ruiz is running for Bethel School Board from District 2. He has worked for the last four years as a social worker and mental health professional in the state foster care system. He is also a member of the Bethel School District Career and Technical Education General Advisory Committee.
Ruiz is running to ensure every student has the resources they need to thrive. His top priority would be to advocate for more state and federal education funding to improve education without raising more regressive taxes. In addition, he wants to provide more support for teachers, improve student safety, and expand dual-language education programs.
Ruiz is challenging longtime incumbent John Manning. Despite his many years on the board, Manning has not released a website or any campaign platform as of mid-October. Manning and other incumbents recently faced significant criticism from parents and bus drivers over major staffing shortages that have left kids stranded at bus stops. Manning blamed the crisis on the pandemic and didn't directly address drivers concerns about being overworked and underpaid, as well as frequent route changes that leave parents and drivers confused. In a public letter, bus drivers said the district's "leadership is floundering" and said parents should be concerned.
Erasmo Ruiz is the clear choice for new leadership on the Bethel School Board from District 2.
Last updated: 2023-10-19
-
-
Navy veteran Dr. Karen J. Bolton is running for re-election to the Bremerton School Board, Position 1. Since retiring from 20 years of service in the Navy, she has worked as a full-time professor at Olympic College. She has also served as a past board member of the YWCA of Kitsap County and Leadership Kitsap.
Bolton was first elected in 2019 and took office just weeks before the pandemic. She is proud of her track record leading the district through the pandemic without laying off any staff and ensuring that all students continued to have access to meals and wi-fi. She is running for re-election to ensure every student has the opportunity to earn a high-quality education. She also wants to keep pushing the district forward to integrate the latest technology into the curriculum.
Bolton faces a challenge from conservative Lance Byrd, who moved to Bremerton six years ago and does not appear to have any experience serving his community. Unfortunately, Byrd has aligned himself with the far-right group Moms for Liberty, which wants to ban books from school libraries, eliminate comprehensive sex education, and change school curriculums to whitewash our history. He recently participated in a candidate forum hosted by Moms for Liberty and criticizes Bolton for working to achieve equity for all students.
Bolton's lifetime of service, track record of thoughtful leadership, and deep knowledge of education issues have earned her a host of endorsements from local leaders and statewide advocates. Dr. Karen Bolton is the clear choice for Bremerton School Board, Position 1.Last updated: 2023-10-20Karen J. Bolton
Navy veteran Dr. Karen J. Bolton is running for re-election to the Bremerton School Board, Position 1. Since retiring from 20 years of service in the Navy, she has worked as a full-time professor at Olympic College.
Navy veteran Dr. Karen J. Bolton is running for re-election to the Bremerton School Board, Position 1. Since retiring from 20 years of service in the Navy, she has worked as a full-time professor at Olympic College. She has also served as a past board member of the YWCA of Kitsap County and Leadership Kitsap.
Bolton was first elected in 2019 and took office just weeks before the pandemic. She is proud of her track record leading the district through the pandemic without laying off any staff and ensuring that all students continued to have access to meals and wi-fi. She is running for re-election to ensure every student has the opportunity to earn a high-quality education. She also wants to keep pushing the district forward to integrate the latest technology into the curriculum.
Bolton faces a challenge from conservative Lance Byrd, who moved to Bremerton six years ago and does not appear to have any experience serving his community. Unfortunately, Byrd has aligned himself with the far-right group Moms for Liberty, which wants to ban books from school libraries, eliminate comprehensive sex education, and change school curriculums to whitewash our history. He recently participated in a candidate forum hosted by Moms for Liberty and criticizes Bolton for working to achieve equity for all students.
Bolton's lifetime of service, track record of thoughtful leadership, and deep knowledge of education issues have earned her a host of endorsements from local leaders and statewide advocates. Dr. Karen Bolton is the clear choice for Bremerton School Board, Position 1.Karen J. Bolton
Navy veteran Dr. Karen J. Bolton is running for re-election to the Bremerton School Board, Position 1. Since retiring from 20 years of service in the Navy, she has worked as a full-time professor at Olympic College.
-
-
Navy veteran Dr. Karen J. Bolton is running for re-election to the Bremerton School Board, Position 1. Since retiring from 20 years of service in the Navy, she has worked as a full-time professor at Olympic College. She has also served as a past board member of the YWCA of Kitsap County and Leadership Kitsap.
Bolton was first elected in 2019 and took office just weeks before the pandemic. She is proud of her track record leading the district through the pandemic without laying off any staff and ensuring that all students continued to have access to meals and wi-fi. She is running for re-election to ensure every student has the opportunity to earn a high-quality education. She also wants to keep pushing the district forward to integrate the latest technology into the curriculum.
Bolton faces a challenge from conservative Lance Byrd, who moved to Bremerton six years ago and does not appear to have any experience serving his community. Unfortunately, Byrd has aligned himself with the far-right group Moms for Liberty, which wants to ban books from school libraries, eliminate comprehensive sex education, and change school curriculums to whitewash our history. He recently participated in a candidate forum hosted by Moms for Liberty and criticizes Bolton for working to achieve equity for all students.
Bolton's lifetime of service, track record of thoughtful leadership, and deep knowledge of education issues have earned her a host of endorsements from local leaders and statewide advocates. Dr. Karen Bolton is the clear choice for Bremerton School Board, Position 1.Last updated: 2023-10-20
-
-
Breezy Mitchell is running for Central Kitsap School Board, Position 2. She is an owner and operator of Mitchell Lumber Company and previously worked as a registered nurse at the Harrison Medical Center ICU. She has three kids in the Central Kitsap School District and serves on the Central Kitsap Montessori Parent’s Association Board.
Mitchell is running to ensure all our kids feel safe at school, improve academic performance, and improve communication between the board and families in the district. She also wants to provide better support for educators and support their career development.
Mitchell is challenging conservative Kristin Hay, who was appointed to the seat earlier this year. Hay is an active member of the far-right group Moms for Liberty, which wants to ban books from school libraries, eliminate comprehensive sex education, and change school curriculums to whitewash our history. While she has not released a campaign website, she recently participated in a Moms for Liberty forum where she agreed with all of the group's questions during the lightning round.
Central Kitsap parents and students deserve a school board director who will listen and be transparent, not impose a far-right political agenda on our classrooms. Breezy Mitchell is the clear choice for Central Kitsap School Board, Position 2.Last updated: 2023-10-20Breezy Mitchell
Breezy Mitchell is running for Central Kitsap School Board, Position 2. She is an owner and operator of Mitchell Lumber Company and previously worked as a registered nurse at the Harrison Medical Center ICU.
Breezy Mitchell is running for Central Kitsap School Board, Position 2. She is an owner and operator of Mitchell Lumber Company and previously worked as a registered nurse at the Harrison Medical Center ICU. She has three kids in the Central Kitsap School District and serves on the Central Kitsap Montessori Parent’s Association Board.
Mitchell is running to ensure all our kids feel safe at school, improve academic performance, and improve communication between the board and families in the district. She also wants to provide better support for educators and support their career development.
Mitchell is challenging conservative Kristin Hay, who was appointed to the seat earlier this year. Hay is an active member of the far-right group Moms for Liberty, which wants to ban books from school libraries, eliminate comprehensive sex education, and change school curriculums to whitewash our history. While she has not released a campaign website, she recently participated in a Moms for Liberty forum where she agreed with all of the group's questions during the lightning round.
Central Kitsap parents and students deserve a school board director who will listen and be transparent, not impose a far-right political agenda on our classrooms. Breezy Mitchell is the clear choice for Central Kitsap School Board, Position 2.Breezy Mitchell
Breezy Mitchell is running for Central Kitsap School Board, Position 2. She is an owner and operator of Mitchell Lumber Company and previously worked as a registered nurse at the Harrison Medical Center ICU.
-
-
Breezy Mitchell is running for Central Kitsap School Board, Position 2. She is an owner and operator of Mitchell Lumber Company and previously worked as a registered nurse at the Harrison Medical Center ICU. She has three kids in the Central Kitsap School District and serves on the Central Kitsap Montessori Parent’s Association Board.
Mitchell is running to ensure all our kids feel safe at school, improve academic performance, and improve communication between the board and families in the district. She also wants to provide better support for educators and support their career development.
Mitchell is challenging conservative Kristin Hay, who was appointed to the seat earlier this year. Hay is an active member of the far-right group Moms for Liberty, which wants to ban books from school libraries, eliminate comprehensive sex education, and change school curriculums to whitewash our history. While she has not released a campaign website, she recently participated in a Moms for Liberty forum where she agreed with all of the group's questions during the lightning round.
Central Kitsap parents and students deserve a school board director who will listen and be transparent, not impose a far-right political agenda on our classrooms. Breezy Mitchell is the clear choice for Central Kitsap School Board, Position 2.Last updated: 2023-10-20
-
-
Drayton Jackson, the current president of the Central Kitsap School Board, is running to continue representing District 3. Jackson's experience with over two decades of homelessness have motivated him to become an outspoken advocate for people experiencing poverty and housing insecurity. He is now the executive director of the Foundation for Homeless and Poverty Management, which he created to help families find homes and stability. Jackson has also held leadership positions on a number of groups that do outreach to low-income parents, assist parents that are navigating higher education, and advise the governor and state on strategies to dismantle poverty in Washington.
Jackson is proud of his accomplishments during his first term elected, during which the school board handled the effects of the pandemic and passed a levy to fund counselors, transportation, special education, and school libraries. Jackson also is proud to be a voice for those often unrepresented on the board - Black and brown people and people experiencing poverty.
Jim Grose is challenging Jackson for his seat on the Central Kitsap School Board, representing District 3. Grose recently retired from a 36-year career as a pipe fitter and an insulator shop superintendent at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard.
Grose is running on a platform aligned with the far-right group Moms for Liberty, which is seeking to take over local school boards to impose their political agenda on our classrooms. During a recent candidate forum hosted by Moms for Liberty, Grose said "I am into banning books" and suggested that the district could defy state education laws it doesn't agree with, which would be illegal. Grose's far-right positions are dangerous for students and have no place on our school board.
If re-elected, Jackson would continue to center student voices in decision-making, fund more vital programs and student opportunities, and create a more diverse and inclusive environment for all. He deserves your vote for Central Kitsap School Board, District 3.Last updated: 2023-10-20Drayton Jackson
Drayton Jackson, the current president of the Central Kitsap School Board, is running to continue representing District 3. Jackson's experience with over two decades of homelessness have motivated him to become an outspoken advocate for people experiencing poverty and housing insecurity.
Drayton Jackson, the current president of the Central Kitsap School Board, is running to continue representing District 3. Jackson's experience with over two decades of homelessness have motivated him to become an outspoken advocate for people experiencing poverty and housing insecurity. He is now the executive director of the Foundation for Homeless and Poverty Management, which he created to help families find homes and stability. Jackson has also held leadership positions on a number of groups that do outreach to low-income parents, assist parents that are navigating higher education, and advise the governor and state on strategies to dismantle poverty in Washington.
Jackson is proud of his accomplishments during his first term elected, during which the school board handled the effects of the pandemic and passed a levy to fund counselors, transportation, special education, and school libraries. Jackson also is proud to be a voice for those often unrepresented on the board - Black and brown people and people experiencing poverty.
Jim Grose is challenging Jackson for his seat on the Central Kitsap School Board, representing District 3. Grose recently retired from a 36-year career as a pipe fitter and an insulator shop superintendent at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard.
Grose is running on a platform aligned with the far-right group Moms for Liberty, which is seeking to take over local school boards to impose their political agenda on our classrooms. During a recent candidate forum hosted by Moms for Liberty, Grose said "I am into banning books" and suggested that the district could defy state education laws it doesn't agree with, which would be illegal. Grose's far-right positions are dangerous for students and have no place on our school board.
If re-elected, Jackson would continue to center student voices in decision-making, fund more vital programs and student opportunities, and create a more diverse and inclusive environment for all. He deserves your vote for Central Kitsap School Board, District 3.Drayton Jackson
Drayton Jackson, the current president of the Central Kitsap School Board, is running to continue representing District 3. Jackson's experience with over two decades of homelessness have motivated him to become an outspoken advocate for people experiencing poverty and housing insecurity.
-
-
Drayton Jackson, the current president of the Central Kitsap School Board, is running to continue representing District 3. Jackson's experience with over two decades of homelessness have motivated him to become an outspoken advocate for people experiencing poverty and housing insecurity. He is now the executive director of the Foundation for Homeless and Poverty Management, which he created to help families find homes and stability. Jackson has also held leadership positions on a number of groups that do outreach to low-income parents, assist parents that are navigating higher education, and advise the governor and state on strategies to dismantle poverty in Washington.
Jackson is proud of his accomplishments during his first term elected, during which the school board handled the effects of the pandemic and passed a levy to fund counselors, transportation, special education, and school libraries. Jackson also is proud to be a voice for those often unrepresented on the board - Black and brown people and people experiencing poverty.
Jim Grose is challenging Jackson for his seat on the Central Kitsap School Board, representing District 3. Grose recently retired from a 36-year career as a pipe fitter and an insulator shop superintendent at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard.
Grose is running on a platform aligned with the far-right group Moms for Liberty, which is seeking to take over local school boards to impose their political agenda on our classrooms. During a recent candidate forum hosted by Moms for Liberty, Grose said "I am into banning books" and suggested that the district could defy state education laws it doesn't agree with, which would be illegal. Grose's far-right positions are dangerous for students and have no place on our school board.
If re-elected, Jackson would continue to center student voices in decision-making, fund more vital programs and student opportunities, and create a more diverse and inclusive environment for all. He deserves your vote for Central Kitsap School Board, District 3.Last updated: 2023-10-20
-
-
Cindy McMullen is running for Central Valley School Board Director from District 1 against Jeff Brooks. McMullen is a retired lawyer and served on the Central Valley School Board for many years. She also volunteers with the local Girl Scouts and is a member of the Rotary.
McMullen is running to ensure every student gains the knowledge and skills they need for their chosen path after graduation. She is proud of her record of helping hire a new superintendent, implementing the "I, You, We Belong" initiative, and expanding coursework options for students.
Jeff Brooks is another member of the far-right slate trying to take over the Central Valley School Board. He was quoted in the Spokesman-Review in September saying "we're all trying to basically overturn the board, because if we don't, it'll be civil war." These kinds of threats of violence have no place in our schools and his narrow, ideologically driven campaign will hurt our students.
Cindy McMullen is the clear choice for Central Valley School Board from District 1 based on her endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders.
Last updated: 2023-10-20Cindy McMullen
Cindy McMullen is running for Central Valley School Board Director from District 1 against Jeff Brooks. McMullen is a retired lawyer and served on the Central Valley School Board for many years. She also volunteers with the local Girl Scouts and is a member of the Rotary.
Cindy McMullen is running for Central Valley School Board Director from District 1 against Jeff Brooks. McMullen is a retired lawyer and served on the Central Valley School Board for many years. She also volunteers with the local Girl Scouts and is a member of the Rotary.
McMullen is running to ensure every student gains the knowledge and skills they need for their chosen path after graduation. She is proud of her record of helping hire a new superintendent, implementing the "I, You, We Belong" initiative, and expanding coursework options for students.
Jeff Brooks is another member of the far-right slate trying to take over the Central Valley School Board. He was quoted in the Spokesman-Review in September saying "we're all trying to basically overturn the board, because if we don't, it'll be civil war." These kinds of threats of violence have no place in our schools and his narrow, ideologically driven campaign will hurt our students.
Cindy McMullen is the clear choice for Central Valley School Board from District 1 based on her endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders.
Cindy McMullen
Cindy McMullen is running for Central Valley School Board Director from District 1 against Jeff Brooks. McMullen is a retired lawyer and served on the Central Valley School Board for many years. She also volunteers with the local Girl Scouts and is a member of the Rotary.
-
-
Cindy McMullen is running for Central Valley School Board Director from District 1 against Jeff Brooks. McMullen is a retired lawyer and served on the Central Valley School Board for many years. She also volunteers with the local Girl Scouts and is a member of the Rotary.
McMullen is running to ensure every student gains the knowledge and skills they need for their chosen path after graduation. She is proud of her record of helping hire a new superintendent, implementing the "I, You, We Belong" initiative, and expanding coursework options for students.
Jeff Brooks is another member of the far-right slate trying to take over the Central Valley School Board. He was quoted in the Spokesman-Review in September saying "we're all trying to basically overturn the board, because if we don't, it'll be civil war." These kinds of threats of violence have no place in our schools and his narrow, ideologically driven campaign will hurt our students.
Cindy McMullen is the clear choice for Central Valley School Board from District 1 based on her endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders.
Last updated: 2023-10-20
-
-
Debra Long is running for Central Valley School Board Director from District 3 against Stephanie Jerdon. Long has served on the board since 2003 and works as an accounting manager for Rockwood Retirement Communities. She is also active in the community, including organizing the Central Valley Craft Fair, and is a member of the Central Valley Theatre.
Long is running for re-election to continue building partnerships between parents, teachers, and administrators. She will also work to ensure that all students have the tools and opportunities they need to be successful after graduation.
Long faces a challenge from Stephanie Jerdan, who is part of the slate of far-right candidates seeking to take over the school board. She has fought against public health recommendations as well as science-based comprehensive sexual education. If elected, she would politicize the school board by further inserting the district into legislative advocacy in Olympia.
Debra Long is the clear choice for Central Valley School Board from District 2 based on her track record and endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders.
Last updated: 2023-10-19Debra Long
Debra Long is running for Central Valley School Board Director from District 3 against Stephanie Jerdon. Long has served on the board since 2003 and works as an accounting manager for Rockwood Retirement Communities.
Debra Long is running for Central Valley School Board Director from District 3 against Stephanie Jerdon. Long has served on the board since 2003 and works as an accounting manager for Rockwood Retirement Communities. She is also active in the community, including organizing the Central Valley Craft Fair, and is a member of the Central Valley Theatre.
Long is running for re-election to continue building partnerships between parents, teachers, and administrators. She will also work to ensure that all students have the tools and opportunities they need to be successful after graduation.
Long faces a challenge from Stephanie Jerdan, who is part of the slate of far-right candidates seeking to take over the school board. She has fought against public health recommendations as well as science-based comprehensive sexual education. If elected, she would politicize the school board by further inserting the district into legislative advocacy in Olympia.
Debra Long is the clear choice for Central Valley School Board from District 2 based on her track record and endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders.
Debra Long
Debra Long is running for Central Valley School Board Director from District 3 against Stephanie Jerdon. Long has served on the board since 2003 and works as an accounting manager for Rockwood Retirement Communities.
-
-
Debra Long is running for Central Valley School Board Director from District 3 against Stephanie Jerdon. Long has served on the board since 2003 and works as an accounting manager for Rockwood Retirement Communities. She is also active in the community, including organizing the Central Valley Craft Fair, and is a member of the Central Valley Theatre.
Long is running for re-election to continue building partnerships between parents, teachers, and administrators. She will also work to ensure that all students have the tools and opportunities they need to be successful after graduation.
Long faces a challenge from Stephanie Jerdan, who is part of the slate of far-right candidates seeking to take over the school board. She has fought against public health recommendations as well as science-based comprehensive sexual education. If elected, she would politicize the school board by further inserting the district into legislative advocacy in Olympia.
Debra Long is the clear choice for Central Valley School Board from District 2 based on her track record and endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders.
Last updated: 2023-10-19
-
-
Dr. Keith Clark is running for Central Valley School Board Director from District 4. He has owned the Pet Vet Hospital and Wellness Center for 28 years. Clark has served four terms on the school board and his children have attended schools in the Central Valley School District for 26 years. He's running for re-election to keep our kids safe, maintain a quality curriculum, and make sure every student feels like they belong at school.
Clark faces a challenge from Anniece Barker, a far-right conservative. Barker is part of a slate of candidates trying to take over the Central Balley School Board to impose their political ideology on our schools. She was part of a far-right group that tried to overturn comprehensive sexual education rules and has engaged in various conspiracy theories.
Keith Clark is the clear choice for Central Valley School Board from District 3 based on his solid track record and endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders.
Last updated: 2023-10-20Keith Clark
Dr. Keith Clark is running for Central Valley School Board Director from District 4. He has owned the Pet Vet Hospital and Wellness Center for 28 years. Clark has served four terms on the school board and his children have attended schools in the Central Valley School District for 26 years.
Dr. Keith Clark is running for Central Valley School Board Director from District 4. He has owned the Pet Vet Hospital and Wellness Center for 28 years. Clark has served four terms on the school board and his children have attended schools in the Central Valley School District for 26 years. He's running for re-election to keep our kids safe, maintain a quality curriculum, and make sure every student feels like they belong at school.
Clark faces a challenge from Anniece Barker, a far-right conservative. Barker is part of a slate of candidates trying to take over the Central Balley School Board to impose their political ideology on our schools. She was part of a far-right group that tried to overturn comprehensive sexual education rules and has engaged in various conspiracy theories.
Keith Clark is the clear choice for Central Valley School Board from District 3 based on his solid track record and endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders.
Keith Clark
Dr. Keith Clark is running for Central Valley School Board Director from District 4. He has owned the Pet Vet Hospital and Wellness Center for 28 years. Clark has served four terms on the school board and his children have attended schools in the Central Valley School District for 26 years.
-
-
Dr. Keith Clark is running for Central Valley School Board Director from District 4. He has owned the Pet Vet Hospital and Wellness Center for 28 years. Clark has served four terms on the school board and his children have attended schools in the Central Valley School District for 26 years. He's running for re-election to keep our kids safe, maintain a quality curriculum, and make sure every student feels like they belong at school.
Clark faces a challenge from Anniece Barker, a far-right conservative. Barker is part of a slate of candidates trying to take over the Central Balley School Board to impose their political ideology on our schools. She was part of a far-right group that tried to overturn comprehensive sexual education rules and has engaged in various conspiracy theories.
Keith Clark is the clear choice for Central Valley School Board from District 3 based on his solid track record and endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders.
Last updated: 2023-10-20
-
-
Janet Caldwell is running for Clover Park School Board, Director, District 5. The seat is currently held by Paul Wagemann, who is facing evidence-based allegations that he both sexually harrassed a school employee and also made racist remarks at a school board meeting. Caldwell has been a public school educator in the Bethel School District for the past 29 years and currently serves as the Bethel Education Association president. She can relate to many district families as a longtime Lakewood resident, military spouse, and parent of district students.
Caldwell is running on an inclusive platform to improve education opportunities and resources for all Clover Park students. Her top priorities include ensuring that students are safe at school and attracting quality educators to Clover Park schools. She also wants to ensure public education is accessible to students of all learning needs. Caldwell has earned an impressive slate of endorsements from community leaders and local educators.
Caldwell’s opponent in this race is Noa Bunting, who is aligned with the far-right group Moms for Liberty. Bunting is a 24-year-old conservative whose campaign platform promotes the agenda of right-wing groups that want to ban books from school libraries, eliminate comprehensive sex education, and change school curriculums to match their political agenda. Our students deserve a quality education free from the politicization of a small group of far-right activists and candidates like Noa Bunting.
Janet Caldwell's decades of experience as an educator and strong community support make her the clear choice for Clover Park School Board, Director, District 5.
Last updated: 2023-10-17Janet Caldwell
Janet Caldwell is running for Clover Park School Board, Director, District 5. The seat is currently held by Paul Wagemann, who is facing evidence-based allegations that he both sexually harrassed a school employee and also made racist remarks at a school board meeting.
Janet Caldwell is running for Clover Park School Board, Director, District 5. The seat is currently held by Paul Wagemann, who is facing evidence-based allegations that he both sexually harrassed a school employee and also made racist remarks at a school board meeting. Caldwell has been a public school educator in the Bethel School District for the past 29 years and currently serves as the Bethel Education Association president. She can relate to many district families as a longtime Lakewood resident, military spouse, and parent of district students.
Caldwell is running on an inclusive platform to improve education opportunities and resources for all Clover Park students. Her top priorities include ensuring that students are safe at school and attracting quality educators to Clover Park schools. She also wants to ensure public education is accessible to students of all learning needs. Caldwell has earned an impressive slate of endorsements from community leaders and local educators.
Caldwell’s opponent in this race is Noa Bunting, who is aligned with the far-right group Moms for Liberty. Bunting is a 24-year-old conservative whose campaign platform promotes the agenda of right-wing groups that want to ban books from school libraries, eliminate comprehensive sex education, and change school curriculums to match their political agenda. Our students deserve a quality education free from the politicization of a small group of far-right activists and candidates like Noa Bunting.
Janet Caldwell's decades of experience as an educator and strong community support make her the clear choice for Clover Park School Board, Director, District 5.
Janet Caldwell
Janet Caldwell is running for Clover Park School Board, Director, District 5. The seat is currently held by Paul Wagemann, who is facing evidence-based allegations that he both sexually harrassed a school employee and also made racist remarks at a school board meeting.
-
-
Janet Caldwell is running for Clover Park School Board, Director, District 5. The seat is currently held by Paul Wagemann, who is facing evidence-based allegations that he both sexually harrassed a school employee and also made racist remarks at a school board meeting. Caldwell has been a public school educator in the Bethel School District for the past 29 years and currently serves as the Bethel Education Association president. She can relate to many district families as a longtime Lakewood resident, military spouse, and parent of district students.
Caldwell is running on an inclusive platform to improve education opportunities and resources for all Clover Park students. Her top priorities include ensuring that students are safe at school and attracting quality educators to Clover Park schools. She also wants to ensure public education is accessible to students of all learning needs. Caldwell has earned an impressive slate of endorsements from community leaders and local educators.
Caldwell’s opponent in this race is Noa Bunting, who is aligned with the far-right group Moms for Liberty. Bunting is a 24-year-old conservative whose campaign platform promotes the agenda of right-wing groups that want to ban books from school libraries, eliminate comprehensive sex education, and change school curriculums to match their political agenda. Our students deserve a quality education free from the politicization of a small group of far-right activists and candidates like Noa Bunting.
Janet Caldwell's decades of experience as an educator and strong community support make her the clear choice for Clover Park School Board, Director, District 5.
Last updated: 2023-10-17
No Recommendation
Scott Mason is a retired Boeing employee and foster parent who is running on a vague platform to cut some funding to our students. He is a conservative though his campaign veers less conspiracy-based than his opponent.
Jimmy Stewart is a Seattle Police Department officer running a far-right campaign to install far-right ideas in our schools. He has the support of a local, conservative political group and neglected to share a voters' guide statement with the public. He has been accused of numerous police violations at the SPD of which The Courier-Herald reported “Stewart has been involved in at least 16 various Office of Police Accountability investigations into policy violations between 2014 and 2021, all of them minor.” If elected, he would bring misinformation, fear-mongering, and MAGA policy to the school board.
There are no good candidates in this race, though Mason is less problematic. Vote for Mason or write in a candidate of your choice for Enumclaw School Board, Director District 1
Scott Mason
There are two conservatives seeking to replace Jennifer Kent in Enumclaw School Board, Director District 4. This race has descended into accusations between the candidates of hacking, PDC violations, and professional misconduct.
-
-
Tyson Gamblin is running for another term on Enumclaw School Board, Director District 3 where he has served for the past seven years. Outside of public office, Gamblin runs a local car dealership. He is running on a 0sues facing the district. His ultimate goal is to ensure that all students have access to a safe and rewarding education that prepares them for a wide range of futures.
Vivian Tillman-Cadematori, a retired business owner, is challenging Gamblin in this race. Tillman-Cadematori is an extremely conservative candidate who is running to bring conservative values into our schools. Her top talking point is allowing personal political and religious beliefs to dictate what our students learn.
While there are no progressives in this race, we believe Tyson Gamblin is a better candidate for Enumclaw School Board, Director District 3.
Last updated: 2023-11-06Tyson Gamblin
Tyson Gamblin is running for another term on Enumclaw School Board, Director District 3 where he has served for the past seven years. Outside of public office, Gamblin runs a local car dealership. He is running on a 0sues facing the district.
Tyson Gamblin is running for another term on Enumclaw School Board, Director District 3 where he has served for the past seven years. Outside of public office, Gamblin runs a local car dealership. He is running on a 0sues facing the district. His ultimate goal is to ensure that all students have access to a safe and rewarding education that prepares them for a wide range of futures.
Vivian Tillman-Cadematori, a retired business owner, is challenging Gamblin in this race. Tillman-Cadematori is an extremely conservative candidate who is running to bring conservative values into our schools. Her top talking point is allowing personal political and religious beliefs to dictate what our students learn.
While there are no progressives in this race, we believe Tyson Gamblin is a better candidate for Enumclaw School Board, Director District 3.
Tyson Gamblin
Tyson Gamblin is running for another term on Enumclaw School Board, Director District 3 where he has served for the past seven years. Outside of public office, Gamblin runs a local car dealership. He is running on a 0sues facing the district.
-
-
Tyson Gamblin is running for another term on Enumclaw School Board, Director District 3 where he has served for the past seven years. Outside of public office, Gamblin runs a local car dealership. He is running on a 0sues facing the district. His ultimate goal is to ensure that all students have access to a safe and rewarding education that prepares them for a wide range of futures.
Vivian Tillman-Cadematori, a retired business owner, is challenging Gamblin in this race. Tillman-Cadematori is an extremely conservative candidate who is running to bring conservative values into our schools. Her top talking point is allowing personal political and religious beliefs to dictate what our students learn.
While there are no progressives in this race, we believe Tyson Gamblin is a better candidate for Enumclaw School Board, Director District 3.
Last updated: 2023-11-06
No Good Choices
Ben Stouffer, an electrical construction superintendent, is campaigning on a vague platform that solely focuses on academic results and neglects to identify the issues facing students and teachers that prevent successful outcomes. If elected, he would cut funding from student programs and influence the curriculum with conservative ideas.
Tonya Pettit shares many of Stouffer’s vague platform and conservative ideas for office. Like her opponent, her campaign hyperfocuses on academic results while advocating to cut funding to the programs that help students succeed. She also wants to bring far-right misinformation into our schools.
There are no good choices in this race. Write in a candidate of your choice for Enumclaw School Board, Director District 4.
Tonya Pettit
There are two extremely conservative candidates vying for Enumclaw School Board, Director District 4 – the seat currently held by Lori Metschan. Both are running with support from a local, far-right group to install extremely conservative ideas into Enumclaw schools.
-
-
Charles Adkins is running for Everett School Board for Director-at-Large Position 5. Adkins grew up on the Yurok Indian Reservation and remains an enrolled member of the nation today. There, he attended one of the last standing federally-run Indian boarding schools, which existed to erase Indigenous culture and language. Adkins experienced homelessness as a child, which eventually brought him to Cocoon House in Everett. Today he works as a legislative policy analyst for the Tulalip tribes and previously served as the health policy director of the Children’s Alliance.
Adkins’ extensive background in policy leadership and community advocacy, and his unique experience of how education can be misused to erase some kids' identities, position him well to improve the school district for all students. He has a detailed and exceptionally progressive platform with policy ideas such as partnerships between local youth homelessness resources and the school district, advocating for healthy and safe work environments for teachers and staff, and strengthening the relationships between Everett public schools and local tribes including through the curriculum. In this race, Adkins has been endorsed by a large number of progressive leaders, community organizations, unions, and Democratic groups.
Also in this race is Ryne Rohla, an economist in the Washington State Office of the Attorney General and professor in the subject at Washington State University. Rohla is running to invest in public education in order to improve economic mobility in our community. He wants to bring his expertise in economics to focus on raising competency scores for Everett students. Unfortunately, Rohla has not offered progressive solutions for helping all students achieve their greatest potential and seems to offer a less holistic approach to raising scores.
Charles Adkins' strong progressive values, policy expertise, and community relationships make him the clear choice for Director-at-Large Position 5 on the Everett School Board.
Last updated: 2023-10-19Charles Adkins
Charles Adkins is running for Everett School Board for Director-at-Large Position 5. Adkins grew up on the Yurok Indian Reservation and remains an enrolled member of the nation today.
Charles Adkins is running for Everett School Board for Director-at-Large Position 5. Adkins grew up on the Yurok Indian Reservation and remains an enrolled member of the nation today. There, he attended one of the last standing federally-run Indian boarding schools, which existed to erase Indigenous culture and language. Adkins experienced homelessness as a child, which eventually brought him to Cocoon House in Everett. Today he works as a legislative policy analyst for the Tulalip tribes and previously served as the health policy director of the Children’s Alliance.
Adkins’ extensive background in policy leadership and community advocacy, and his unique experience of how education can be misused to erase some kids' identities, position him well to improve the school district for all students. He has a detailed and exceptionally progressive platform with policy ideas such as partnerships between local youth homelessness resources and the school district, advocating for healthy and safe work environments for teachers and staff, and strengthening the relationships between Everett public schools and local tribes including through the curriculum. In this race, Adkins has been endorsed by a large number of progressive leaders, community organizations, unions, and Democratic groups.
Also in this race is Ryne Rohla, an economist in the Washington State Office of the Attorney General and professor in the subject at Washington State University. Rohla is running to invest in public education in order to improve economic mobility in our community. He wants to bring his expertise in economics to focus on raising competency scores for Everett students. Unfortunately, Rohla has not offered progressive solutions for helping all students achieve their greatest potential and seems to offer a less holistic approach to raising scores.
Charles Adkins' strong progressive values, policy expertise, and community relationships make him the clear choice for Director-at-Large Position 5 on the Everett School Board.
Charles Adkins
Charles Adkins is running for Everett School Board for Director-at-Large Position 5. Adkins grew up on the Yurok Indian Reservation and remains an enrolled member of the nation today.
-
-
Charles Adkins is running for Everett School Board for Director-at-Large Position 5. Adkins grew up on the Yurok Indian Reservation and remains an enrolled member of the nation today. There, he attended one of the last standing federally-run Indian boarding schools, which existed to erase Indigenous culture and language. Adkins experienced homelessness as a child, which eventually brought him to Cocoon House in Everett. Today he works as a legislative policy analyst for the Tulalip tribes and previously served as the health policy director of the Children’s Alliance.
Adkins’ extensive background in policy leadership and community advocacy, and his unique experience of how education can be misused to erase some kids' identities, position him well to improve the school district for all students. He has a detailed and exceptionally progressive platform with policy ideas such as partnerships between local youth homelessness resources and the school district, advocating for healthy and safe work environments for teachers and staff, and strengthening the relationships between Everett public schools and local tribes including through the curriculum. In this race, Adkins has been endorsed by a large number of progressive leaders, community organizations, unions, and Democratic groups.
Also in this race is Ryne Rohla, an economist in the Washington State Office of the Attorney General and professor in the subject at Washington State University. Rohla is running to invest in public education in order to improve economic mobility in our community. He wants to bring his expertise in economics to focus on raising competency scores for Everett students. Unfortunately, Rohla has not offered progressive solutions for helping all students achieve their greatest potential and seems to offer a less holistic approach to raising scores.
Charles Adkins' strong progressive values, policy expertise, and community relationships make him the clear choice for Director-at-Large Position 5 on the Everett School Board.
Last updated: 2023-10-19
-
-
Incumbent Victoria Bradford is running for another term on Evergreen School Board, Director District 3. Bradford has served on the school board since 1999. She runs her own small business and has also worked as a bank officer. Bradford is an active community member, serving on the Vancouver Strong executive board and the Vancouver Downtown Association. Additionally, Bradford was a co-founder of the county’s Quality Education Coalition, and has worked with a number of local education-focused groups.
Bradford has led a number of initiatives on the board. She is particularly proud of the recent addition of the skilled trades center and the district’s strategic plan to recover from the pandemic. In this campaign, Bradford wants to make sure that teachers and education staff are supported as well as safe, and that classrooms are sustainable. She will fight at the legislative level to ensure that our schools are funded and our students can access the resources they need.
Gary Wilson is the extremely conservative challenger in this race. Wilson has a background in accounting and budget analysis, and he now believes that he can fix the district’s academic performance statistics by cutting funding and shrinking student resources. He has been endorsed by the county Republicans as well as one of the most conservative school board political groups in the state.
Our school district only improves when students have the classroom spaces, teaching staff, health services, and educational resources to thrive. Bradford is the better choice in this race for Evergreen School Board, Director District 3.
Last updated: 2023-10-20Victoria Bradford
Incumbent Victoria Bradford is running for another term on Evergreen School Board, Director District 3. Bradford has served on the school board since 1999. She runs her own small business and has also worked as a bank officer.
Incumbent Victoria Bradford is running for another term on Evergreen School Board, Director District 3. Bradford has served on the school board since 1999. She runs her own small business and has also worked as a bank officer. Bradford is an active community member, serving on the Vancouver Strong executive board and the Vancouver Downtown Association. Additionally, Bradford was a co-founder of the county’s Quality Education Coalition, and has worked with a number of local education-focused groups.
Bradford has led a number of initiatives on the board. She is particularly proud of the recent addition of the skilled trades center and the district’s strategic plan to recover from the pandemic. In this campaign, Bradford wants to make sure that teachers and education staff are supported as well as safe, and that classrooms are sustainable. She will fight at the legislative level to ensure that our schools are funded and our students can access the resources they need.
Gary Wilson is the extremely conservative challenger in this race. Wilson has a background in accounting and budget analysis, and he now believes that he can fix the district’s academic performance statistics by cutting funding and shrinking student resources. He has been endorsed by the county Republicans as well as one of the most conservative school board political groups in the state.
Our school district only improves when students have the classroom spaces, teaching staff, health services, and educational resources to thrive. Bradford is the better choice in this race for Evergreen School Board, Director District 3.
Victoria Bradford
Incumbent Victoria Bradford is running for another term on Evergreen School Board, Director District 3. Bradford has served on the school board since 1999. She runs her own small business and has also worked as a bank officer.
-
-
Incumbent Victoria Bradford is running for another term on Evergreen School Board, Director District 3. Bradford has served on the school board since 1999. She runs her own small business and has also worked as a bank officer. Bradford is an active community member, serving on the Vancouver Strong executive board and the Vancouver Downtown Association. Additionally, Bradford was a co-founder of the county’s Quality Education Coalition, and has worked with a number of local education-focused groups.
Bradford has led a number of initiatives on the board. She is particularly proud of the recent addition of the skilled trades center and the district’s strategic plan to recover from the pandemic. In this campaign, Bradford wants to make sure that teachers and education staff are supported as well as safe, and that classrooms are sustainable. She will fight at the legislative level to ensure that our schools are funded and our students can access the resources they need.
Gary Wilson is the extremely conservative challenger in this race. Wilson has a background in accounting and budget analysis, and he now believes that he can fix the district’s academic performance statistics by cutting funding and shrinking student resources. He has been endorsed by the county Republicans as well as one of the most conservative school board political groups in the state.
Our school district only improves when students have the classroom spaces, teaching staff, health services, and educational resources to thrive. Bradford is the better choice in this race for Evergreen School Board, Director District 3.
Last updated: 2023-10-20
-
-
Dr. Jennifer Jones is running for another term serving Director District 2 on the Federal Way School Board. She is a professor at Highline College, where she has worked for 25 years. She has a long track record serving the community including as a social worker for public housing, as a member of an elementary school PTA, and as a guest lecturer for senior centers.
In Jones’ first term, she worked hard to make the school district a welcoming place where all students gain the skills they need in our modern world. Now, she is running with a focus on bringing the community together and delivering a high-quality education to Federal Way students. Jones has earned a strong slate of progressive endorsements from elected leaders, community organizations, and local unions.
Jones faces a challenge from Daniel Kukhar, who works as a manager at his own general contracting company. Kukhar is running on a typically Republican agenda that does not reflect the needs of local students and families. Compared with Jones, Kukhar's lack of experience in education shows in his failure to understand the nuances of the school district and the curriculum.
Dr. Jennifer Jones has been a strong leader on the Federal Way School Board and deserves your vote for another term serving as Director, District 2.Last updated: 2023-10-19Jennifer Jones
Dr. Jennifer Jones is running for another term serving Director District 2 on the Federal Way School Board. She is a professor at Highline College, where she has worked for 25 years.
Dr. Jennifer Jones is running for another term serving Director District 2 on the Federal Way School Board. She is a professor at Highline College, where she has worked for 25 years. She has a long track record serving the community including as a social worker for public housing, as a member of an elementary school PTA, and as a guest lecturer for senior centers.
In Jones’ first term, she worked hard to make the school district a welcoming place where all students gain the skills they need in our modern world. Now, she is running with a focus on bringing the community together and delivering a high-quality education to Federal Way students. Jones has earned a strong slate of progressive endorsements from elected leaders, community organizations, and local unions.
Jones faces a challenge from Daniel Kukhar, who works as a manager at his own general contracting company. Kukhar is running on a typically Republican agenda that does not reflect the needs of local students and families. Compared with Jones, Kukhar's lack of experience in education shows in his failure to understand the nuances of the school district and the curriculum.
Dr. Jennifer Jones has been a strong leader on the Federal Way School Board and deserves your vote for another term serving as Director, District 2.Jennifer Jones
Dr. Jennifer Jones is running for another term serving Director District 2 on the Federal Way School Board. She is a professor at Highline College, where she has worked for 25 years.
-
-
Dr. Jennifer Jones is running for another term serving Director District 2 on the Federal Way School Board. She is a professor at Highline College, where she has worked for 25 years. She has a long track record serving the community including as a social worker for public housing, as a member of an elementary school PTA, and as a guest lecturer for senior centers.
In Jones’ first term, she worked hard to make the school district a welcoming place where all students gain the skills they need in our modern world. Now, she is running with a focus on bringing the community together and delivering a high-quality education to Federal Way students. Jones has earned a strong slate of progressive endorsements from elected leaders, community organizations, and local unions.
Jones faces a challenge from Daniel Kukhar, who works as a manager at his own general contracting company. Kukhar is running on a typically Republican agenda that does not reflect the needs of local students and families. Compared with Jones, Kukhar's lack of experience in education shows in his failure to understand the nuances of the school district and the curriculum.
Dr. Jennifer Jones has been a strong leader on the Federal Way School Board and deserves your vote for another term serving as Director, District 2.Last updated: 2023-10-19
-
-
Educator and district parent Luckisha Phillips is running for re-election for Federal Way School Board, Director District 3 where she has been serving since 2018. Phillips is a faculty member at Highline College and has previously worked for nonprofits providing direct services to children, families, and community members. Phillips is also a very involved community leader on equity and inclusion in our schools, and has served on the OSPI Dyslexia Advisory Council, worked with the Hamlin Robinson School for Children with Language Learning Impacts, and joined the King County Youth Community Accountability Committee.
Phillips has worked tirelessly to ensure that all Federal Way students can access the education and support they need to thrive. Combining the perspectives of a parent and an educator herself, Phillips has a strong understanding of the various community needs at stake in school board decisions. If re-elected, she wants to continue making investments in mental health resources and special education programs. Her progressive and community-oriented platform has been endorsed by a number of elected leaders, unions, and community organizations.
The challenger in this race is Christopher Dowllar, who has submitted no information to the voters' pamphlet. He is associated with the far-right Moms for Liberty group and is endorsed by one of the most conservative organizations in school board politics. With no public platform but strong ties to far-right movements that want to impose their political agenda on our kids, it is clear that Dowllar would be a step backward for Federal Way students.
Luckisha Phillips is clearly the best choice in this race and deserves your vote for another term in Federal Way School Board, Director District 3.
Last updated: 2023-10-09Luckisha Phillips
Educator and district parent Luckisha Phillips is running for re-election for Federal Way School Board, Director District 3 where she has been serving since 2018.
Educator and district parent Luckisha Phillips is running for re-election for Federal Way School Board, Director District 3 where she has been serving since 2018. Phillips is a faculty member at Highline College and has previously worked for nonprofits providing direct services to children, families, and community members. Phillips is also a very involved community leader on equity and inclusion in our schools, and has served on the OSPI Dyslexia Advisory Council, worked with the Hamlin Robinson School for Children with Language Learning Impacts, and joined the King County Youth Community Accountability Committee.
Phillips has worked tirelessly to ensure that all Federal Way students can access the education and support they need to thrive. Combining the perspectives of a parent and an educator herself, Phillips has a strong understanding of the various community needs at stake in school board decisions. If re-elected, she wants to continue making investments in mental health resources and special education programs. Her progressive and community-oriented platform has been endorsed by a number of elected leaders, unions, and community organizations.
The challenger in this race is Christopher Dowllar, who has submitted no information to the voters' pamphlet. He is associated with the far-right Moms for Liberty group and is endorsed by one of the most conservative organizations in school board politics. With no public platform but strong ties to far-right movements that want to impose their political agenda on our kids, it is clear that Dowllar would be a step backward for Federal Way students.
Luckisha Phillips is clearly the best choice in this race and deserves your vote for another term in Federal Way School Board, Director District 3.
Luckisha Phillips
Educator and district parent Luckisha Phillips is running for re-election for Federal Way School Board, Director District 3 where she has been serving since 2018.
-
-
Educator and district parent Luckisha Phillips is running for re-election for Federal Way School Board, Director District 3 where she has been serving since 2018. Phillips is a faculty member at Highline College and has previously worked for nonprofits providing direct services to children, families, and community members. Phillips is also a very involved community leader on equity and inclusion in our schools, and has served on the OSPI Dyslexia Advisory Council, worked with the Hamlin Robinson School for Children with Language Learning Impacts, and joined the King County Youth Community Accountability Committee.
Phillips has worked tirelessly to ensure that all Federal Way students can access the education and support they need to thrive. Combining the perspectives of a parent and an educator herself, Phillips has a strong understanding of the various community needs at stake in school board decisions. If re-elected, she wants to continue making investments in mental health resources and special education programs. Her progressive and community-oriented platform has been endorsed by a number of elected leaders, unions, and community organizations.
The challenger in this race is Christopher Dowllar, who has submitted no information to the voters' pamphlet. He is associated with the far-right Moms for Liberty group and is endorsed by one of the most conservative organizations in school board politics. With no public platform but strong ties to far-right movements that want to impose their political agenda on our kids, it is clear that Dowllar would be a step backward for Federal Way students.
Luckisha Phillips is clearly the best choice in this race and deserves your vote for another term in Federal Way School Board, Director District 3.
Last updated: 2023-10-09
-
-
Public school teacher and librarian Gavin Downing is running for Federal Way School Board, Director, District 5, the seat currently held by Hiroshi Eto, who is not seeking re-election. Downing has worked in public education for 17 years and is a union member. He has advocated against conservative censorship movements and received a 2022 award for fighting book bans. Downing also serves as vice-chair of the Washington Library Association's Intellectual Freedom Section.
Downing has an optimistic vision for the school district where every student can access the resources and education they need to thrive. One of his top campaign priorities in this race is to ensure that our school district is a safe, equitable place both to learn and to work. Downing believes that student success comes from having the best possible staff and faculty, which he wants to attract through competitive wages. If elected, he would also invest in libraries, including staffing and curriculum development, so that students are both prepared for the digital age and gain literacy in identifying misinformation.
Joan Marie Murphy, a former special education teacher in the school district, is running against Downing. Murphy is running on a broad platform that includes specific curriculum ideas such as an emphasis on STEM, strategies to engage students, and changes to school board procedures like making meetings more accessible to the public. Unfortunately, she appears to oppose the inclusion of some LGBTQ+ stories in public libraries. We know our children are the safest and have the best opportunity to grow when their stories are represented in history curriculums and on library shelves.
Gavin Downing is the clear choice for Federal Way School Board, Director, District 5.Last updated: 2023-10-18Gavin Downing
Public school teacher and librarian Gavin Downing is running for Federal Way School Board, Director, District 5, the seat currently held by Hiroshi Eto, who is not seeking re-election. Downing has worked in public education for 17 years and is a union member.
Public school teacher and librarian Gavin Downing is running for Federal Way School Board, Director, District 5, the seat currently held by Hiroshi Eto, who is not seeking re-election. Downing has worked in public education for 17 years and is a union member. He has advocated against conservative censorship movements and received a 2022 award for fighting book bans. Downing also serves as vice-chair of the Washington Library Association's Intellectual Freedom Section.
Downing has an optimistic vision for the school district where every student can access the resources and education they need to thrive. One of his top campaign priorities in this race is to ensure that our school district is a safe, equitable place both to learn and to work. Downing believes that student success comes from having the best possible staff and faculty, which he wants to attract through competitive wages. If elected, he would also invest in libraries, including staffing and curriculum development, so that students are both prepared for the digital age and gain literacy in identifying misinformation.
Joan Marie Murphy, a former special education teacher in the school district, is running against Downing. Murphy is running on a broad platform that includes specific curriculum ideas such as an emphasis on STEM, strategies to engage students, and changes to school board procedures like making meetings more accessible to the public. Unfortunately, she appears to oppose the inclusion of some LGBTQ+ stories in public libraries. We know our children are the safest and have the best opportunity to grow when their stories are represented in history curriculums and on library shelves.
Gavin Downing is the clear choice for Federal Way School Board, Director, District 5.Gavin Downing
Public school teacher and librarian Gavin Downing is running for Federal Way School Board, Director, District 5, the seat currently held by Hiroshi Eto, who is not seeking re-election. Downing has worked in public education for 17 years and is a union member.
-
-
Public school teacher and librarian Gavin Downing is running for Federal Way School Board, Director, District 5, the seat currently held by Hiroshi Eto, who is not seeking re-election. Downing has worked in public education for 17 years and is a union member. He has advocated against conservative censorship movements and received a 2022 award for fighting book bans. Downing also serves as vice-chair of the Washington Library Association's Intellectual Freedom Section.
Downing has an optimistic vision for the school district where every student can access the resources and education they need to thrive. One of his top campaign priorities in this race is to ensure that our school district is a safe, equitable place both to learn and to work. Downing believes that student success comes from having the best possible staff and faculty, which he wants to attract through competitive wages. If elected, he would also invest in libraries, including staffing and curriculum development, so that students are both prepared for the digital age and gain literacy in identifying misinformation.
Joan Marie Murphy, a former special education teacher in the school district, is running against Downing. Murphy is running on a broad platform that includes specific curriculum ideas such as an emphasis on STEM, strategies to engage students, and changes to school board procedures like making meetings more accessible to the public. Unfortunately, she appears to oppose the inclusion of some LGBTQ+ stories in public libraries. We know our children are the safest and have the best opportunity to grow when their stories are represented in history curriculums and on library shelves.
Gavin Downing is the clear choice for Federal Way School Board, Director, District 5.Last updated: 2023-10-18
-
Express Recommendation -
Moderate Dr. Kevin Erickson is running for re-election to the Ferndale School board. He has served on the board since 2010 and is the current board president. In addition, Erickson has worked at the Kulshan Veterinary Hospital for 33 years.
Erickson faces a challenge from conservative Beth Perry. Perry is running for school board after homeschooling her kids from their first day of school, in part because of her strong religious beliefs. Perry had a joint kickoff with Antonio Machado and Nancy Button, who are closely aligned with Moms for Liberty.
While we have not been able to conduct our standard independent research on this race, we are confident Dr. Kevin Erickson is the best choice based on his track record in office and endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders. We encourage you to visit his website, social media, or voters’ pamphlet statement to learn more.
Last updated: 2023-10-18Kevin Erickson
Moderate Dr. Kevin Erickson is running for re-election to the Ferndale School board. He has served on the board since 2010 and is the current board president. In addition, Erickson has worked at the Kulshan Veterinary Hospital for 33 years.
Moderate Dr. Kevin Erickson is running for re-election to the Ferndale School board. He has served on the board since 2010 and is the current board president. In addition, Erickson has worked at the Kulshan Veterinary Hospital for 33 years.
Erickson faces a challenge from conservative Beth Perry. Perry is running for school board after homeschooling her kids from their first day of school, in part because of her strong religious beliefs. Perry had a joint kickoff with Antonio Machado and Nancy Button, who are closely aligned with Moms for Liberty.
While we have not been able to conduct our standard independent research on this race, we are confident Dr. Kevin Erickson is the best choice based on his track record in office and endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders. We encourage you to visit his website, social media, or voters’ pamphlet statement to learn more.
Kevin Erickson
Moderate Dr. Kevin Erickson is running for re-election to the Ferndale School board. He has served on the board since 2010 and is the current board president. In addition, Erickson has worked at the Kulshan Veterinary Hospital for 33 years.
-
Express Recommendation
-
Moderate Dr. Kevin Erickson is running for re-election to the Ferndale School board. He has served on the board since 2010 and is the current board president. In addition, Erickson has worked at the Kulshan Veterinary Hospital for 33 years.
Erickson faces a challenge from conservative Beth Perry. Perry is running for school board after homeschooling her kids from their first day of school, in part because of her strong religious beliefs. Perry had a joint kickoff with Antonio Machado and Nancy Button, who are closely aligned with Moms for Liberty.
While we have not been able to conduct our standard independent research on this race, we are confident Dr. Kevin Erickson is the best choice based on his track record in office and endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders. We encourage you to visit his website, social media, or voters’ pamphlet statement to learn more.
Last updated: 2023-10-18
-
Express Recommendation -
Brent Bode is running for Ferndale School Board in District 2. He currently serves as a Senior Assistant Director of Admissions at Western Washington University. He has also served on the City of Ferndale Planning Commission and with the WWU Professional Staff Organization.
After several tumultuous years during the pandemic for the school board, Bode is running to rebuild relationships between board members and improve communications with the public. He is also focused on ensuring local schools have adequate funding to hire and retain talented staff and to give students a well-rounded education. He also wants to expand mental health resources for students, particularly as we emerge from the pandemic.
Bode is running against Anthony Machado, who works for the Western States Petroleum Association. Machado has three kids in the Ferndale School District but does not have Bode's experience serving the community.
While we have not been able to conduct our standard independent research on this race, we are confident Brent Bode is the best choice in this race based on endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders. We encourage you to visit his website, social media, or voters’ pamphlet statement to learn more.
Last updated: 2023-10-18Brent Bode
Brent Bode is running for Ferndale School Board in District 2. He currently serves as a Senior Assistant Director of Admissions at Western Washington University. He has also served on the City of Ferndale Planning Commission and with the WWU Professional Staff Organization.
Brent Bode is running for Ferndale School Board in District 2. He currently serves as a Senior Assistant Director of Admissions at Western Washington University. He has also served on the City of Ferndale Planning Commission and with the WWU Professional Staff Organization.
After several tumultuous years during the pandemic for the school board, Bode is running to rebuild relationships between board members and improve communications with the public. He is also focused on ensuring local schools have adequate funding to hire and retain talented staff and to give students a well-rounded education. He also wants to expand mental health resources for students, particularly as we emerge from the pandemic.
Bode is running against Anthony Machado, who works for the Western States Petroleum Association. Machado has three kids in the Ferndale School District but does not have Bode's experience serving the community.
While we have not been able to conduct our standard independent research on this race, we are confident Brent Bode is the best choice in this race based on endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders. We encourage you to visit his website, social media, or voters’ pamphlet statement to learn more.
Brent Bode
Brent Bode is running for Ferndale School Board in District 2. He currently serves as a Senior Assistant Director of Admissions at Western Washington University. He has also served on the City of Ferndale Planning Commission and with the WWU Professional Staff Organization.
-
Express Recommendation
-
Brent Bode is running for Ferndale School Board in District 2. He currently serves as a Senior Assistant Director of Admissions at Western Washington University. He has also served on the City of Ferndale Planning Commission and with the WWU Professional Staff Organization.
After several tumultuous years during the pandemic for the school board, Bode is running to rebuild relationships between board members and improve communications with the public. He is also focused on ensuring local schools have adequate funding to hire and retain talented staff and to give students a well-rounded education. He also wants to expand mental health resources for students, particularly as we emerge from the pandemic.
Bode is running against Anthony Machado, who works for the Western States Petroleum Association. Machado has three kids in the Ferndale School District but does not have Bode's experience serving the community.
While we have not been able to conduct our standard independent research on this race, we are confident Brent Bode is the best choice in this race based on endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders. We encourage you to visit his website, social media, or voters’ pamphlet statement to learn more.
Last updated: 2023-10-18
-
-
Toni Jefferson is running to retain her seat on the Ferndale School Board from District 3 to which she was appointed in February. She is a member of the Lummi Nation and worked as the general manager of the Lummi Island Business Council.
Jefferson is running to bring her experience in financial management, conflict resolution, and working with diverse stakeholders to the Ferndale School Board. She supports the "You Belong" campaign because she knows that students must feel safe at school in order to learn and grow.
Jefferson is running against conservative former teacher Nancy Button. She has aligned herself with far-right groups like Moms for Liberty that want to politicize our schools. Button is a "regular [commenter] at Ferndale School District meetings," harshly criticizing school leaders for following public health guidelines and offering comprehensive sex education. When she sought an appointment to fill a vacancy on the Ferndale School Board this year, one of the current board members claimed that she had received "15, 16 emails from people that have had experience with [Button]... saying she is not fit for our district" and accusing her of being homophobic and racist. Button failed to receive the appointment.
Button is following a common playbook this year of far-right political activists trying to take control of school boards to impose their agenda on all families. Ferndale teachers, students, and families deserve better. Toni Jefferson is the clear choice for Ferndale School Board from District 3.
Last updated: 2023-10-20Toni Jefferson
Toni Jefferson is running to retain her seat on the Ferndale School Board from District 3 to which she was appointed in February. She is a member of the Lummi Nation and worked as the general manager of the Lummi Island Business Council.
Toni Jefferson is running to retain her seat on the Ferndale School Board from District 3 to which she was appointed in February. She is a member of the Lummi Nation and worked as the general manager of the Lummi Island Business Council.
Jefferson is running to bring her experience in financial management, conflict resolution, and working with diverse stakeholders to the Ferndale School Board. She supports the "You Belong" campaign because she knows that students must feel safe at school in order to learn and grow.
Jefferson is running against conservative former teacher Nancy Button. She has aligned herself with far-right groups like Moms for Liberty that want to politicize our schools. Button is a "regular [commenter] at Ferndale School District meetings," harshly criticizing school leaders for following public health guidelines and offering comprehensive sex education. When she sought an appointment to fill a vacancy on the Ferndale School Board this year, one of the current board members claimed that she had received "15, 16 emails from people that have had experience with [Button]... saying she is not fit for our district" and accusing her of being homophobic and racist. Button failed to receive the appointment.
Button is following a common playbook this year of far-right political activists trying to take control of school boards to impose their agenda on all families. Ferndale teachers, students, and families deserve better. Toni Jefferson is the clear choice for Ferndale School Board from District 3.
Toni Jefferson
Toni Jefferson is running to retain her seat on the Ferndale School Board from District 3 to which she was appointed in February. She is a member of the Lummi Nation and worked as the general manager of the Lummi Island Business Council.
-
-
Toni Jefferson is running to retain her seat on the Ferndale School Board from District 3 to which she was appointed in February. She is a member of the Lummi Nation and worked as the general manager of the Lummi Island Business Council.
Jefferson is running to bring her experience in financial management, conflict resolution, and working with diverse stakeholders to the Ferndale School Board. She supports the "You Belong" campaign because she knows that students must feel safe at school in order to learn and grow.
Jefferson is running against conservative former teacher Nancy Button. She has aligned herself with far-right groups like Moms for Liberty that want to politicize our schools. Button is a "regular [commenter] at Ferndale School District meetings," harshly criticizing school leaders for following public health guidelines and offering comprehensive sex education. When she sought an appointment to fill a vacancy on the Ferndale School Board this year, one of the current board members claimed that she had received "15, 16 emails from people that have had experience with [Button]... saying she is not fit for our district" and accusing her of being homophobic and racist. Button failed to receive the appointment.
Button is following a common playbook this year of far-right political activists trying to take control of school boards to impose their agenda on all families. Ferndale teachers, students, and families deserve better. Toni Jefferson is the clear choice for Ferndale School Board from District 3.
Last updated: 2023-10-20
-
-
Carlos Ruiz is running for Highline School Board in District 4 to improve the health of our schools. He has worked in technology and consulting and has been very active in the community. He has served as the board chair for the Seattle Credit Union, a board member for the affordable housing organization Southeast Effective Development, and as part of Marvista Elementary PTSA, where his two daughters attend school.
Ruiz is running to increase community engagement, which is especially important given the diverse community and its equally diverse student needs. He feels it's urgent to address the loss of educators from the district by giving teachers the tools they need to do their jobs. Lastly, because the district is so close to the airport, Ruiz wants to create funding to study local air quality and see if improvements can be made. Ruiz has earned a large number of endorsements, including from several education associations, labor unions, and local Democrats.
Ruiz's opponent in this race is self-described stay-at-home mom Melissa Petrini, who previously ran the Bay Area nonprofit The Friend Tree Autism Center, and who currently serves on the board for Love is My Religion. While her campaign page aims to place herself as an independent who is not taking endorsements from outside groups, she has been recommended by the Family Policy Institute, a far-right religious group often aligned with the book-banning Moms for Liberty organization.
Highline schools need an advocate who can work with teachers, community organizations, families, and students to help youth thrive in the district. Ruiz is the best choice for the Highline School Board from District 4.
Last updated: 2023-10-18Carlos Ruiz
Carlos Ruiz is running for Highline School Board in District 4 to improve the health of our schools. He has worked in technology and consulting and has been very active in the community.
Carlos Ruiz is running for Highline School Board in District 4 to improve the health of our schools. He has worked in technology and consulting and has been very active in the community. He has served as the board chair for the Seattle Credit Union, a board member for the affordable housing organization Southeast Effective Development, and as part of Marvista Elementary PTSA, where his two daughters attend school.
Ruiz is running to increase community engagement, which is especially important given the diverse community and its equally diverse student needs. He feels it's urgent to address the loss of educators from the district by giving teachers the tools they need to do their jobs. Lastly, because the district is so close to the airport, Ruiz wants to create funding to study local air quality and see if improvements can be made. Ruiz has earned a large number of endorsements, including from several education associations, labor unions, and local Democrats.
Ruiz's opponent in this race is self-described stay-at-home mom Melissa Petrini, who previously ran the Bay Area nonprofit The Friend Tree Autism Center, and who currently serves on the board for Love is My Religion. While her campaign page aims to place herself as an independent who is not taking endorsements from outside groups, she has been recommended by the Family Policy Institute, a far-right religious group often aligned with the book-banning Moms for Liberty organization.
Highline schools need an advocate who can work with teachers, community organizations, families, and students to help youth thrive in the district. Ruiz is the best choice for the Highline School Board from District 4.
Carlos Ruiz
Carlos Ruiz is running for Highline School Board in District 4 to improve the health of our schools. He has worked in technology and consulting and has been very active in the community.
-
-
Carlos Ruiz is running for Highline School Board in District 4 to improve the health of our schools. He has worked in technology and consulting and has been very active in the community. He has served as the board chair for the Seattle Credit Union, a board member for the affordable housing organization Southeast Effective Development, and as part of Marvista Elementary PTSA, where his two daughters attend school.
Ruiz is running to increase community engagement, which is especially important given the diverse community and its equally diverse student needs. He feels it's urgent to address the loss of educators from the district by giving teachers the tools they need to do their jobs. Lastly, because the district is so close to the airport, Ruiz wants to create funding to study local air quality and see if improvements can be made. Ruiz has earned a large number of endorsements, including from several education associations, labor unions, and local Democrats.
Ruiz's opponent in this race is self-described stay-at-home mom Melissa Petrini, who previously ran the Bay Area nonprofit The Friend Tree Autism Center, and who currently serves on the board for Love is My Religion. While her campaign page aims to place herself as an independent who is not taking endorsements from outside groups, she has been recommended by the Family Policy Institute, a far-right religious group often aligned with the book-banning Moms for Liberty organization.
Highline schools need an advocate who can work with teachers, community organizations, families, and students to help youth thrive in the district. Ruiz is the best choice for the Highline School Board from District 4.
Last updated: 2023-10-18
-
-
AJ Taylor is a former attorney and longtime Microsoft employer making his first run for office. He has been active in the community by volunteering with the Issaquah Rotary and serving on the 2021 Issaquah school levy committee and the mayor's economic vitality commission.
Taylor is running to bring his strategic planning and budgeting experience to the Issaquah School Board from District 1. After the district faced difficult budget cuts last year, he wants to push the board to prioritize spending better to ensure that areas like special education and mental health care are adequately funded. If elected, he pledges to improve transparency, listen to the community, and communicate better with the public.
Taylor is running unopposed and has earned your vote for Issaquah School Board.
Last updated: 2023-10-18AJ Taylor
AJ Taylor is a former attorney and longtime Microsoft employer making his first run for office. He has been active in the community by volunteering with the Issaquah Rotary and serving on the 2021 Issaquah school levy committee and the mayor's economic vitality commission.
AJ Taylor is a former attorney and longtime Microsoft employer making his first run for office. He has been active in the community by volunteering with the Issaquah Rotary and serving on the 2021 Issaquah school levy committee and the mayor's economic vitality commission.
Taylor is running to bring his strategic planning and budgeting experience to the Issaquah School Board from District 1. After the district faced difficult budget cuts last year, he wants to push the board to prioritize spending better to ensure that areas like special education and mental health care are adequately funded. If elected, he pledges to improve transparency, listen to the community, and communicate better with the public.
Taylor is running unopposed and has earned your vote for Issaquah School Board.
AJ Taylor
AJ Taylor is a former attorney and longtime Microsoft employer making his first run for office. He has been active in the community by volunteering with the Issaquah Rotary and serving on the 2021 Issaquah school levy committee and the mayor's economic vitality commission.
-
-
AJ Taylor is a former attorney and longtime Microsoft employer making his first run for office. He has been active in the community by volunteering with the Issaquah Rotary and serving on the 2021 Issaquah school levy committee and the mayor's economic vitality commission.
Taylor is running to bring his strategic planning and budgeting experience to the Issaquah School Board from District 1. After the district faced difficult budget cuts last year, he wants to push the board to prioritize spending better to ensure that areas like special education and mental health care are adequately funded. If elected, he pledges to improve transparency, listen to the community, and communicate better with the public.
Taylor is running unopposed and has earned your vote for Issaquah School Board.
Last updated: 2023-10-18
-
-
Matt Coyne is running for Issaquah School Board from District 5. He served on the Issaquah Schools Foundation Board for six years, including two years as Board President, as well as on the board of the Issaquah Food & Clothing Bank.
Coyne comes from a long line of teachers in his family and is dedicated to recruiting and retaining the best educations for Issaquah. The high cost of living in Issaquah means the district must work harder to allow teachers to live in the community they serve. Another priority for Coyne is ensuring that special education and mental health care are fully funded in local schools, which is more important than ever as students continue to recover from the pandemic.
Coyne's opponent, Josiah Morauski, did not submit a voters' pamphlet statement and does not have a campaign website. He does not appear to be running a viable campaign.
Coyne has earned an impressive list of endorsements from local leaders and educators. He has earned your vote for Issaquah School School.
Last updated: 2023-10-18Matt Coyne
Matt Coyne is running for Issaquah School Board from District 5. He served on the Issaquah Schools Foundation Board for six years, including two years as Board President, as well as on the board of the Issaquah Food & Clothing Bank.
Matt Coyne is running for Issaquah School Board from District 5. He served on the Issaquah Schools Foundation Board for six years, including two years as Board President, as well as on the board of the Issaquah Food & Clothing Bank.
Coyne comes from a long line of teachers in his family and is dedicated to recruiting and retaining the best educations for Issaquah. The high cost of living in Issaquah means the district must work harder to allow teachers to live in the community they serve. Another priority for Coyne is ensuring that special education and mental health care are fully funded in local schools, which is more important than ever as students continue to recover from the pandemic.
Coyne's opponent, Josiah Morauski, did not submit a voters' pamphlet statement and does not have a campaign website. He does not appear to be running a viable campaign.
Coyne has earned an impressive list of endorsements from local leaders and educators. He has earned your vote for Issaquah School School.
Matt Coyne
Matt Coyne is running for Issaquah School Board from District 5. He served on the Issaquah Schools Foundation Board for six years, including two years as Board President, as well as on the board of the Issaquah Food & Clothing Bank.
-
-
Matt Coyne is running for Issaquah School Board from District 5. He served on the Issaquah Schools Foundation Board for six years, including two years as Board President, as well as on the board of the Issaquah Food & Clothing Bank.
Coyne comes from a long line of teachers in his family and is dedicated to recruiting and retaining the best educations for Issaquah. The high cost of living in Issaquah means the district must work harder to allow teachers to live in the community they serve. Another priority for Coyne is ensuring that special education and mental health care are fully funded in local schools, which is more important than ever as students continue to recover from the pandemic.
Coyne's opponent, Josiah Morauski, did not submit a voters' pamphlet statement and does not have a campaign website. He does not appear to be running a viable campaign.
Coyne has earned an impressive list of endorsements from local leaders and educators. He has earned your vote for Issaquah School School.
Last updated: 2023-10-18
-
VOTE YES
Vote Yes to continue critical funding for our schools
-
Kent’s school district is a cornerstone of the community, and everyone thrives when our students are safe, happy, and successful at school. We know that in order to provide learning environments that bring the best out of everyone, we need to invest in teachers, classroom resources, and supportive services for all student needs.
Earlier this year, the Kent School Board directors adopted a resolution to support educational programs and operations expenses. Kent School District Proposition 1 proposes to replace the expiring Educational Programs & Operations levy. This measure simply replaces the expiring levy with a new one in line with students' basic needs. If passed, the levy would allow the city to continue supplementing state budgets with a small property tax in order to provide funding for arts, athletics, nurses, para-educators, mental health specialists, school safety, infrastructure maintenance, and more.
Funds from levies represent about 15 percent of the district's budget, an amount critical to keeping our students supported with a modern education in a safe environment. Keep Kent schools strong. Vote Yes on Kent School District Proposition 1.Last updated: 2023-10-18Kent’s school district is a cornerstone of the community, and everyone thrives when our students are safe, happy, and successful at school. We know that in order to provide learning environments that bring the best out of everyone, we need to invest in teachers, classroom resources, and supportive services for all student needs.
Earlier this year, the Kent School Board directors adopted a resolution to support educational programs and operations expenses. Kent School District Proposition 1 proposes to replace the expiring Educational Programs & Operations levy. This measure simply replaces the expiring levy with a new one in line with students' basic needs. If passed, the levy would allow the city to continue supplementing state budgets with a small property tax in order to provide funding for arts, athletics, nurses, para-educators, mental health specialists, school safety, infrastructure maintenance, and more.
Funds from levies represent about 15 percent of the district's budget, an amount critical to keeping our students supported with a modern education in a safe environment. Keep Kent schools strong. Vote Yes on Kent School District Proposition 1.Kent’s school district is a cornerstone of the community, and everyone thrives when our students are safe, happy, and successful at school. We know that in order to provide learning environments that bring the best out of everyone, we need to invest in teachers, classroom resources, and supportive services for all student needs.
Earlier this year, the Kent School Board directors adopted a resolution to support educational programs and operations expenses. Kent School District Proposition 1 proposes to replace the expiring Educational Programs & Operations levy. This measure simply replaces the expiring levy with a new one in line with students' basic needs. If passed, the levy would allow the city to continue supplementing state budgets with a small property tax in order to provide funding for arts, athletics, nurses, para-educators, mental health specialists, school safety, infrastructure maintenance, and more.
Funds from levies represent about 15 percent of the district's budget, an amount critical to keeping our students supported with a modern education in a safe environment. Keep Kent schools strong. Vote Yes on Kent School District Proposition 1.Kent School District Proposition 1
Kent’s school district is a cornerstone of the community, and everyone thrives when our students are safe, happy, and successful at school.
-
VOTE YES
Vote Yes to continue funding educational infrastructure and learning technology
-
A key element of a good education is modern technology and safety infrastructure. Kent School District Proposition 2 would renew the expiring Capital Projects and Technology Levy to continue critical funding for the school district.
Now more than ever, it is imperative to invest in our school districts to ensure that students receive the opportunities, resources, and information they need to enter today’s world. The current Capital Projects and Technology Levy was approved in 2018. If passed by voters, the proposition would provide a four-year extension to the levy, covering important funding for instruction, safety and security, support services, and technology needs. Specifically, the levy would be used to continue 1:1 learning technology where every student has access to a laptop or tablet, create accessible playground equipment, upgrade safety infrastructure to healthy and cooling air systems and fire alarms, install new flooring (at nearly 20 percent of schools), expand cybersecurity systems, and more.
Vote Yes on Kent School District Proposition 2 to equip students for the future with modern resources and safe learning environments.Last updated: 2023-10-18A key element of a good education is modern technology and safety infrastructure. Kent School District Proposition 2 would renew the expiring Capital Projects and Technology Levy to continue critical funding for the school district.
Now more than ever, it is imperative to invest in our school districts to ensure that students receive the opportunities, resources, and information they need to enter today’s world. The current Capital Projects and Technology Levy was approved in 2018. If passed by voters, the proposition would provide a four-year extension to the levy, covering important funding for instruction, safety and security, support services, and technology needs. Specifically, the levy would be used to continue 1:1 learning technology where every student has access to a laptop or tablet, create accessible playground equipment, upgrade safety infrastructure to healthy and cooling air systems and fire alarms, install new flooring (at nearly 20 percent of schools), expand cybersecurity systems, and more.
Vote Yes on Kent School District Proposition 2 to equip students for the future with modern resources and safe learning environments.A key element of a good education is modern technology and safety infrastructure. Kent School District Proposition 2 would renew the expiring Capital Projects and Technology Levy to continue critical funding for the school district.
Now more than ever, it is imperative to invest in our school districts to ensure that students receive the opportunities, resources, and information they need to enter today’s world. The current Capital Projects and Technology Levy was approved in 2018. If passed by voters, the proposition would provide a four-year extension to the levy, covering important funding for instruction, safety and security, support services, and technology needs. Specifically, the levy would be used to continue 1:1 learning technology where every student has access to a laptop or tablet, create accessible playground equipment, upgrade safety infrastructure to healthy and cooling air systems and fire alarms, install new flooring (at nearly 20 percent of schools), expand cybersecurity systems, and more.
Vote Yes on Kent School District Proposition 2 to equip students for the future with modern resources and safe learning environments.Kent School District Proposition 2
A key element of a good education is modern technology and safety infrastructure. Kent School District Proposition 2 would renew the expiring Capital Projects and Technology Levy to continue critical funding for the school district.
-
Express Recommendation -
Shannon Cluphf is challenging incumbent Amanda Miller for La Center School Board, Director District 2. Cluphf is a Navy veteran and care coordinator for local hospitals and mental health facilities. She volunteers with the Veterans Hospital, Clark Pride, and advocacy to call attention to the high rates of violence that Indigenous women face. Cluphf is running on a vague platform to bring her community leadership to the board and advocate for a welcoming, multicultural school district that can improve on the challenges it faces.
Incumbent Amanda Miller is also in this race. Mliller works in a local escrow department for a national company, and joined the school board this year. She is also running on a vague platform to help every student reach their full potential.
We recommend Shannon Cluphf for La Center School Board, Director District 2 because of her community leadership and support from our trusted partners.
Last updated: 2023-11-01Shannon Cluphf
Shannon Cluphf is challenging incumbent Amanda Miller for La Center School Board, Director District 2. Cluphf is a Navy veteran and care coordinator for local hospitals and mental health facilities.
Shannon Cluphf is challenging incumbent Amanda Miller for La Center School Board, Director District 2. Cluphf is a Navy veteran and care coordinator for local hospitals and mental health facilities. She volunteers with the Veterans Hospital, Clark Pride, and advocacy to call attention to the high rates of violence that Indigenous women face. Cluphf is running on a vague platform to bring her community leadership to the board and advocate for a welcoming, multicultural school district that can improve on the challenges it faces.
Incumbent Amanda Miller is also in this race. Mliller works in a local escrow department for a national company, and joined the school board this year. She is also running on a vague platform to help every student reach their full potential.
We recommend Shannon Cluphf for La Center School Board, Director District 2 because of her community leadership and support from our trusted partners.
Shannon Cluphf
Shannon Cluphf is challenging incumbent Amanda Miller for La Center School Board, Director District 2. Cluphf is a Navy veteran and care coordinator for local hospitals and mental health facilities.
-
Express Recommendation
-
Shannon Cluphf is challenging incumbent Amanda Miller for La Center School Board, Director District 2. Cluphf is a Navy veteran and care coordinator for local hospitals and mental health facilities. She volunteers with the Veterans Hospital, Clark Pride, and advocacy to call attention to the high rates of violence that Indigenous women face. Cluphf is running on a vague platform to bring her community leadership to the board and advocate for a welcoming, multicultural school district that can improve on the challenges it faces.
Incumbent Amanda Miller is also in this race. Mliller works in a local escrow department for a national company, and joined the school board this year. She is also running on a vague platform to help every student reach their full potential.
We recommend Shannon Cluphf for La Center School Board, Director District 2 because of her community leadership and support from our trusted partners.
Last updated: 2023-11-01
-
-
Incumbent director Eric Laliberte is running for a third term serving in Lake Washington School Board, Director District 1. First elected in 2015, Laliberte now serves as the vice president of the board. Outside of public office, he is a civil litigation attorney at a Seattle firm.
In office, Laliberte has worked hard to prepare Lake Washington students for careers and futures in our changing world. He is proud of the district’s rising graduation rate, which now hovers just above 94 percent, and the recent investments in career and technical training programs. In this campaign, his top priorities include academic success, equitable opportunities, inclusive community, and student wellbeing. Laliberte also wants to strengthen community engagement, expand mental health resources, invest in student services, and upgrade school infrastructure to ensure that students are learning in sustainable spaces. In this race, Laliberte has earned an impressive roster of endorsements from Democratic groups, elected leaders, and community organizations.
Andy Markert, an engineer at Dell, is challenging Laliberte for this seat on a conservative platform. If elected, Markert wants to restrict funding for our district while prioritizing the vague concept of safety. His campaign has some fear-mongering language and does not represent the needs of Lake Washington students, staff, or families.
We recommend Eric Laliberte in this race because of his progressive track record and strong endorsements.
Last updated: 2023-10-20Eric Laliberte
Incumbent director Eric Laliberte is running for a third term serving in Lake Washington School Board, Director District 1. First elected in 2015, Laliberte now serves as the vice president of the board. Outside of public office, he is a civil litigation attorney at a Seattle firm.
Incumbent director Eric Laliberte is running for a third term serving in Lake Washington School Board, Director District 1. First elected in 2015, Laliberte now serves as the vice president of the board. Outside of public office, he is a civil litigation attorney at a Seattle firm.
In office, Laliberte has worked hard to prepare Lake Washington students for careers and futures in our changing world. He is proud of the district’s rising graduation rate, which now hovers just above 94 percent, and the recent investments in career and technical training programs. In this campaign, his top priorities include academic success, equitable opportunities, inclusive community, and student wellbeing. Laliberte also wants to strengthen community engagement, expand mental health resources, invest in student services, and upgrade school infrastructure to ensure that students are learning in sustainable spaces. In this race, Laliberte has earned an impressive roster of endorsements from Democratic groups, elected leaders, and community organizations.
Andy Markert, an engineer at Dell, is challenging Laliberte for this seat on a conservative platform. If elected, Markert wants to restrict funding for our district while prioritizing the vague concept of safety. His campaign has some fear-mongering language and does not represent the needs of Lake Washington students, staff, or families.
We recommend Eric Laliberte in this race because of his progressive track record and strong endorsements.
Eric Laliberte
Incumbent director Eric Laliberte is running for a third term serving in Lake Washington School Board, Director District 1. First elected in 2015, Laliberte now serves as the vice president of the board. Outside of public office, he is a civil litigation attorney at a Seattle firm.
-
-
Incumbent director Eric Laliberte is running for a third term serving in Lake Washington School Board, Director District 1. First elected in 2015, Laliberte now serves as the vice president of the board. Outside of public office, he is a civil litigation attorney at a Seattle firm.
In office, Laliberte has worked hard to prepare Lake Washington students for careers and futures in our changing world. He is proud of the district’s rising graduation rate, which now hovers just above 94 percent, and the recent investments in career and technical training programs. In this campaign, his top priorities include academic success, equitable opportunities, inclusive community, and student wellbeing. Laliberte also wants to strengthen community engagement, expand mental health resources, invest in student services, and upgrade school infrastructure to ensure that students are learning in sustainable spaces. In this race, Laliberte has earned an impressive roster of endorsements from Democratic groups, elected leaders, and community organizations.
Andy Markert, an engineer at Dell, is challenging Laliberte for this seat on a conservative platform. If elected, Markert wants to restrict funding for our district while prioritizing the vague concept of safety. His campaign has some fear-mongering language and does not represent the needs of Lake Washington students, staff, or families.
We recommend Eric Laliberte in this race because of his progressive track record and strong endorsements.
Last updated: 2023-10-20
-
-
We believe Lindsey Yocum is the best choice for Lake Washington School Board Director from District 5 based on her impressive endorsements from our progressive partners and trusted community leaders. She currently works as the director of a non-profit sustainable farm and services as the PTA co-president for the Environmental and Adventure School.
She is a former teacher in the district who is passionate about providing opportunities for students with special needs. If elected, she would also work to improve communications and transparency between the board and parents and students. She also wants to find ways to involve students in identifying solutions to the challenges facing the district.
Yocum's opponent, Janel Schermerhorn, has also earned some endorsements from local Democrats and advocacy groups. However, Yocum's experience in the classroom and advocating for students with special needs would be a welcome addition to the Lake Washington School District Board of Directors.
We recommend Lindsey Yocum for District 5.
Last updated: 2023-10-17Lindsey Yocum
We believe Lindsey Yocum is the best choice for Lake Washington School Board Director from District 5 based on her impressive endorsements from our progressive partners and trusted community leaders.
We believe Lindsey Yocum is the best choice for Lake Washington School Board Director from District 5 based on her impressive endorsements from our progressive partners and trusted community leaders. She currently works as the director of a non-profit sustainable farm and services as the PTA co-president for the Environmental and Adventure School.
She is a former teacher in the district who is passionate about providing opportunities for students with special needs. If elected, she would also work to improve communications and transparency between the board and parents and students. She also wants to find ways to involve students in identifying solutions to the challenges facing the district.
Yocum's opponent, Janel Schermerhorn, has also earned some endorsements from local Democrats and advocacy groups. However, Yocum's experience in the classroom and advocating for students with special needs would be a welcome addition to the Lake Washington School District Board of Directors.
We recommend Lindsey Yocum for District 5.
Lindsey Yocum
We believe Lindsey Yocum is the best choice for Lake Washington School Board Director from District 5 based on her impressive endorsements from our progressive partners and trusted community leaders.
-
-
We believe Lindsey Yocum is the best choice for Lake Washington School Board Director from District 5 based on her impressive endorsements from our progressive partners and trusted community leaders. She currently works as the director of a non-profit sustainable farm and services as the PTA co-president for the Environmental and Adventure School.
She is a former teacher in the district who is passionate about providing opportunities for students with special needs. If elected, she would also work to improve communications and transparency between the board and parents and students. She also wants to find ways to involve students in identifying solutions to the challenges facing the district.
Yocum's opponent, Janel Schermerhorn, has also earned some endorsements from local Democrats and advocacy groups. However, Yocum's experience in the classroom and advocating for students with special needs would be a welcome addition to the Lake Washington School District Board of Directors.
We recommend Lindsey Yocum for District 5.
Last updated: 2023-10-17
No Good Choices
Beth Hoiby is an appraiser and classroom volunteer. If elected, her strongest focus is raising the value of school property. She lists her family’s history of living and working in Marysville as her top qualification for serving on the school board. Marysville students, families, and staff deserve a director who is knowledgeable about the issues facing the district and brings the skills to address them. Hoiby is endorsed by a far-right organization that wants to install anti-choice, and religious ideas in our schools.
Sherryl Kenney, the other candidate in this race, is running on a far-right, MAGA platform that stokes conspiracy fears about what our students learn. She is vocally against diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, and refers to education she doesn’t agree with as “propaganda.” If elected, she also wants to severely censor the school library so that all students lose access to information about themselves and the world around them. Our students deserve an education free of political agenda, misinformation., and fear-based conspiracies.
There are no good candidates in this race. Write in a candidate of your choice for Director District 3 on the Marysville School Board.
Beth Hoiby
Two conservative candidates are running for Marysville School Board, Director District 3 to fill Keira Atchley’s seat.
-
-
Jaime Stacy is running for the Mead School Board open seat in District 3, where incumbent Bob Olson, who was first elected in 1985, is retiring. She is a community specialist for Spokane Public Schools and co-founder of the mentorship nonprofit Strong Women Achieving Greatness. She also served as president of the Shiloh Hills Parent Teacher Student Organization from 2017 to 2019.
Stacy believes in representation for all students in the district. Unlike her opponent, she enthusiastically supports the new levy for Mead schools, which will help the district pay for extracurriculars, athletics, nurses, smaller classes, and more. Stacy wants to ensure that all kids thrive and believes anti-bullying and anti-harassment policies would help the student mental health crisis that schools face nationwide. She believes diversity is the key to helping kids think critically and feel welcome in our schools.
Voters will find a stark contrast between Stacy's inclusive principles and those of her opponent, conservative x-ray technician Jennifer Killman. She has no education advocacy experience and is endorsed by far-right Republicans such as Sen. Mike Padden. In an interview with the Spokesman, Killman said she believes diversity and equity in education lowers kids' test scores. Rather than encouraging kids to learn about emotional and social health or accurate lessons on history, she believes that students need to learn about patriotism. Killman also believes that the board should create a policy against critical race theory, which even she admits Mead schools are not even teaching.
Jaime Stacy would make a far better representative for the kids and families of District 3. She deserves your vote for Mead School Board from District 3.
Last updated: 2023-10-17Jaime Stacy
Jaime Stacy is running for the Mead School Board open seat in District 3, where incumbent Bob Olson, who was first elected in 1985, is retiring. She is a community specialist for Spokane Public Schools and co-founder of the mentorship nonprofit Strong Women Achieving Greatness.
Jaime Stacy is running for the Mead School Board open seat in District 3, where incumbent Bob Olson, who was first elected in 1985, is retiring. She is a community specialist for Spokane Public Schools and co-founder of the mentorship nonprofit Strong Women Achieving Greatness. She also served as president of the Shiloh Hills Parent Teacher Student Organization from 2017 to 2019.
Stacy believes in representation for all students in the district. Unlike her opponent, she enthusiastically supports the new levy for Mead schools, which will help the district pay for extracurriculars, athletics, nurses, smaller classes, and more. Stacy wants to ensure that all kids thrive and believes anti-bullying and anti-harassment policies would help the student mental health crisis that schools face nationwide. She believes diversity is the key to helping kids think critically and feel welcome in our schools.
Voters will find a stark contrast between Stacy's inclusive principles and those of her opponent, conservative x-ray technician Jennifer Killman. She has no education advocacy experience and is endorsed by far-right Republicans such as Sen. Mike Padden. In an interview with the Spokesman, Killman said she believes diversity and equity in education lowers kids' test scores. Rather than encouraging kids to learn about emotional and social health or accurate lessons on history, she believes that students need to learn about patriotism. Killman also believes that the board should create a policy against critical race theory, which even she admits Mead schools are not even teaching.
Jaime Stacy would make a far better representative for the kids and families of District 3. She deserves your vote for Mead School Board from District 3.
Jaime Stacy
Jaime Stacy is running for the Mead School Board open seat in District 3, where incumbent Bob Olson, who was first elected in 1985, is retiring. She is a community specialist for Spokane Public Schools and co-founder of the mentorship nonprofit Strong Women Achieving Greatness.
-
-
Jaime Stacy is running for the Mead School Board open seat in District 3, where incumbent Bob Olson, who was first elected in 1985, is retiring. She is a community specialist for Spokane Public Schools and co-founder of the mentorship nonprofit Strong Women Achieving Greatness. She also served as president of the Shiloh Hills Parent Teacher Student Organization from 2017 to 2019.
Stacy believes in representation for all students in the district. Unlike her opponent, she enthusiastically supports the new levy for Mead schools, which will help the district pay for extracurriculars, athletics, nurses, smaller classes, and more. Stacy wants to ensure that all kids thrive and believes anti-bullying and anti-harassment policies would help the student mental health crisis that schools face nationwide. She believes diversity is the key to helping kids think critically and feel welcome in our schools.
Voters will find a stark contrast between Stacy's inclusive principles and those of her opponent, conservative x-ray technician Jennifer Killman. She has no education advocacy experience and is endorsed by far-right Republicans such as Sen. Mike Padden. In an interview with the Spokesman, Killman said she believes diversity and equity in education lowers kids' test scores. Rather than encouraging kids to learn about emotional and social health or accurate lessons on history, she believes that students need to learn about patriotism. Killman also believes that the board should create a policy against critical race theory, which even she admits Mead schools are not even teaching.
Jaime Stacy would make a far better representative for the kids and families of District 3. She deserves your vote for Mead School Board from District 3.
Last updated: 2023-10-17
-
Express Recommendation -
We believe Cristina Martinez is the best choice for Mercer Island School District Director, Position 1 based on endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders. Martinez is active in local schools through the PTA Council and the superintendent's advisory groups. She is running to ensure that every student has access to equitable and inclusive learning opportunities in Mercer Island schools.
Martinez faces Ananta Gudipaty, who has many years of experience working in tech at Microsoft and Amazon. He has not released a detailed campaign platform but is motivated to use technology to achieve "global educational transportation." He has been endorsed by the King County Republican Party and some other local conservatives.
While we have not been able to conduct our standard independent research on this race, we encourage you to visit their website, social media, or voters’ pamphlet statement to learn more. Based on her strong local support, we recommend Christina Martinez for Position 1.
Last updated: 2023-10-13Cristina Martinez
We believe Cristina Martinez is the best choice for Mercer Island School District Director, Position 1 based on endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders. Martinez is active in local schools through the PTA Council and the superintendent's advisory groups.
We believe Cristina Martinez is the best choice for Mercer Island School District Director, Position 1 based on endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders. Martinez is active in local schools through the PTA Council and the superintendent's advisory groups. She is running to ensure that every student has access to equitable and inclusive learning opportunities in Mercer Island schools.
Martinez faces Ananta Gudipaty, who has many years of experience working in tech at Microsoft and Amazon. He has not released a detailed campaign platform but is motivated to use technology to achieve "global educational transportation." He has been endorsed by the King County Republican Party and some other local conservatives.
While we have not been able to conduct our standard independent research on this race, we encourage you to visit their website, social media, or voters’ pamphlet statement to learn more. Based on her strong local support, we recommend Christina Martinez for Position 1.
Cristina Martinez
We believe Cristina Martinez is the best choice for Mercer Island School District Director, Position 1 based on endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders. Martinez is active in local schools through the PTA Council and the superintendent's advisory groups.
-
Express Recommendation
-
We believe Cristina Martinez is the best choice for Mercer Island School District Director, Position 1 based on endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders. Martinez is active in local schools through the PTA Council and the superintendent's advisory groups. She is running to ensure that every student has access to equitable and inclusive learning opportunities in Mercer Island schools.
Martinez faces Ananta Gudipaty, who has many years of experience working in tech at Microsoft and Amazon. He has not released a detailed campaign platform but is motivated to use technology to achieve "global educational transportation." He has been endorsed by the King County Republican Party and some other local conservatives.
While we have not been able to conduct our standard independent research on this race, we encourage you to visit their website, social media, or voters’ pamphlet statement to learn more. Based on her strong local support, we recommend Christina Martinez for Position 1.
Last updated: 2023-10-13
-
Express Recommendation -
We believe Jody Lee is the best choice for Mercer Island School Board Director, District 5 based on endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders. She is a longtime volunteer with the local PTSA and serves on the board of the Mercer Island Youth & Family Services Foundation. Her opponent, Todd White, has not been as involved with our local schools and has received the endorsement of the King County Republican Party.
While we have not been able to conduct our standard independent research on this race, we encourage you to visit their website, social media, or voters’ pamphlet statement to learn more.
Last updated: 2023-10-13Jody Lee
We believe Jody Lee is the best choice for Mercer Island School Board Director, District 5 based on endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders. She is a longtime volunteer with the local PTSA and serves on the board of the Mercer Island Youth & Family Services Foundation.
We believe Jody Lee is the best choice for Mercer Island School Board Director, District 5 based on endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders. She is a longtime volunteer with the local PTSA and serves on the board of the Mercer Island Youth & Family Services Foundation. Her opponent, Todd White, has not been as involved with our local schools and has received the endorsement of the King County Republican Party.
While we have not been able to conduct our standard independent research on this race, we encourage you to visit their website, social media, or voters’ pamphlet statement to learn more.
Jody Lee
We believe Jody Lee is the best choice for Mercer Island School Board Director, District 5 based on endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders. She is a longtime volunteer with the local PTSA and serves on the board of the Mercer Island Youth & Family Services Foundation.
-
Express Recommendation
-
We believe Jody Lee is the best choice for Mercer Island School Board Director, District 5 based on endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders. She is a longtime volunteer with the local PTSA and serves on the board of the Mercer Island Youth & Family Services Foundation. Her opponent, Todd White, has not been as involved with our local schools and has received the endorsement of the King County Republican Party.
While we have not been able to conduct our standard independent research on this race, we encourage you to visit their website, social media, or voters’ pamphlet statement to learn more.
Last updated: 2023-10-13
-
-
J. Riley Sweeney is running for the District 5 seat on the Meridian School District board. Sweeney currently works as the city of Ferndale’s Communication/Recreation Coordinator and previously worked with nonprofits and small businesses. Additionally, he chairs the County Food System Committee and serves on the Irene Reither Elementary PTA board.
If elected, Sweeney wants to prevent partisan influence on public curriculums and instead focus on accuracy, fact, and science so that Meridian students are best prepared for their futures. Another priority for him is to make sweeping investments in the district to support educators with higher salaries, help continued recovery from the pandemic, and uplift enrichment programs and the arts.
Sweeney's opponent is Michelle Simmons, who works for a restoration franchise business. She is a first-time candidate involved in a number of community groups, including the Meridian Boosters, the Meridian Strategic Planning Committee, and a PTA, where she serves as a chair. Simmons’ does not have a campaign website as of early October and the limited campaign information that's available does not include any specific policy solutions. In an article in Cascadia Daily, she complained about restrooms and locker rooms that include the needs of gender diverse students and decried education that speaks to students about race.
As a parent with strong progressive values who has kids enrolled in the district, Riley Sweeney is the clear choice for Director, District 5 on the Meridian School District board.
Last updated: 2023-10-20J. Riley Sweeney
J. Riley Sweeney is running for the District 5 seat on the Meridian School District board. Sweeney currently works as the city of Ferndale’s Communication/Recreation Coordinator and previously worked with nonprofits and small businesses.
J. Riley Sweeney is running for the District 5 seat on the Meridian School District board. Sweeney currently works as the city of Ferndale’s Communication/Recreation Coordinator and previously worked with nonprofits and small businesses. Additionally, he chairs the County Food System Committee and serves on the Irene Reither Elementary PTA board.
If elected, Sweeney wants to prevent partisan influence on public curriculums and instead focus on accuracy, fact, and science so that Meridian students are best prepared for their futures. Another priority for him is to make sweeping investments in the district to support educators with higher salaries, help continued recovery from the pandemic, and uplift enrichment programs and the arts.
Sweeney's opponent is Michelle Simmons, who works for a restoration franchise business. She is a first-time candidate involved in a number of community groups, including the Meridian Boosters, the Meridian Strategic Planning Committee, and a PTA, where she serves as a chair. Simmons’ does not have a campaign website as of early October and the limited campaign information that's available does not include any specific policy solutions. In an article in Cascadia Daily, she complained about restrooms and locker rooms that include the needs of gender diverse students and decried education that speaks to students about race.
As a parent with strong progressive values who has kids enrolled in the district, Riley Sweeney is the clear choice for Director, District 5 on the Meridian School District board.
J. Riley Sweeney
J. Riley Sweeney is running for the District 5 seat on the Meridian School District board. Sweeney currently works as the city of Ferndale’s Communication/Recreation Coordinator and previously worked with nonprofits and small businesses.
-
-
J. Riley Sweeney is running for the District 5 seat on the Meridian School District board. Sweeney currently works as the city of Ferndale’s Communication/Recreation Coordinator and previously worked with nonprofits and small businesses. Additionally, he chairs the County Food System Committee and serves on the Irene Reither Elementary PTA board.
If elected, Sweeney wants to prevent partisan influence on public curriculums and instead focus on accuracy, fact, and science so that Meridian students are best prepared for their futures. Another priority for him is to make sweeping investments in the district to support educators with higher salaries, help continued recovery from the pandemic, and uplift enrichment programs and the arts.
Sweeney's opponent is Michelle Simmons, who works for a restoration franchise business. She is a first-time candidate involved in a number of community groups, including the Meridian Boosters, the Meridian Strategic Planning Committee, and a PTA, where she serves as a chair. Simmons’ does not have a campaign website as of early October and the limited campaign information that's available does not include any specific policy solutions. In an article in Cascadia Daily, she complained about restrooms and locker rooms that include the needs of gender diverse students and decried education that speaks to students about race.
As a parent with strong progressive values who has kids enrolled in the district, Riley Sweeney is the clear choice for Director, District 5 on the Meridian School District board.
Last updated: 2023-10-20
-
-
Melanie Ryan is a progressive advocate who is challenging incumbent Chuck Whitfield to represent District 2 on the Monroe School Board. Ryan has worked as a school social worker and an advocate for foster students while earning her master's in social work. She then moved into the private sector, where she got experience managing large budgets and projects for Microsoft Education. Now, she is a certified diversity coach, the founder of a nonprofit that fosters pets for low-income families, and an advocate with numerous social justice organizations like the Monroe Equity Council.
Monroe has faced challenges with school environment in recent years - several hate crimes made headlines, and many students stepped up to share their struggles with homophobic and racist slurs, bullying, and violence. Superintendent Justin Blasko resigned after he mishandled these racist incidents and was found to have created a toxic workplace himself.
Through her role as board president of the Monroe Equity Council, Ryan helped organize families of color to share their experiences and hold the superintendent accountable. If elected, she would fight for more consistent training for staff on how to handle bigotry in schools, create more accountability measures for leaders, and hire staff to coordinate diversity and inclusion efforts across the district.
Notably, the incumbent Chuck Whitfield voted against basic inclusivity trainings for staff, and continued to support Superintendent Blasko even after credible reports of his sexism and inappropriate behavior. Whitfield is an Army veteran and the owner of a vehicle-licensing agency. His platform centers around making a strategic plan and improving test scores, but lacks concrete ways he will support students and teachers. His statements on student safety focus on his fears about drugs and alcohol, but fail to acknowledge the racism that has led several students of color to leave school. Whitfield is supported by several Republican elected officials, and the teachers' union has endorsed Ryan.
Ryan would focus on improving students' academics by creating a more welcoming culture, investing in resources to keep quality teachers, and engaging families in kids' education. She also is passionate about fully funding support for multi-language learners and special education, which became a priority after her conversations with educators. Ryan also wants to elevate the student voice by including student representatives on the board to inform their strategic plan.
Ryan has one of the most impressive and detailed platforms that we have seen in all school board races this year. Her dedication to racial justice and her extensive experience advocating for students make her by far the best choice in this race.
Last updated: 2023-10-27Melanie Ryan
Melanie Ryan is a progressive advocate who is challenging incumbent Chuck Whitfield to represent District 2 on the Monroe School Board. Ryan has worked as a school social worker and an advocate for foster students while earning her master's in social work.
Melanie Ryan is a progressive advocate who is challenging incumbent Chuck Whitfield to represent District 2 on the Monroe School Board. Ryan has worked as a school social worker and an advocate for foster students while earning her master's in social work. She then moved into the private sector, where she got experience managing large budgets and projects for Microsoft Education. Now, she is a certified diversity coach, the founder of a nonprofit that fosters pets for low-income families, and an advocate with numerous social justice organizations like the Monroe Equity Council.
Monroe has faced challenges with school environment in recent years - several hate crimes made headlines, and many students stepped up to share their struggles with homophobic and racist slurs, bullying, and violence. Superintendent Justin Blasko resigned after he mishandled these racist incidents and was found to have created a toxic workplace himself.
Through her role as board president of the Monroe Equity Council, Ryan helped organize families of color to share their experiences and hold the superintendent accountable. If elected, she would fight for more consistent training for staff on how to handle bigotry in schools, create more accountability measures for leaders, and hire staff to coordinate diversity and inclusion efforts across the district.
Notably, the incumbent Chuck Whitfield voted against basic inclusivity trainings for staff, and continued to support Superintendent Blasko even after credible reports of his sexism and inappropriate behavior. Whitfield is an Army veteran and the owner of a vehicle-licensing agency. His platform centers around making a strategic plan and improving test scores, but lacks concrete ways he will support students and teachers. His statements on student safety focus on his fears about drugs and alcohol, but fail to acknowledge the racism that has led several students of color to leave school. Whitfield is supported by several Republican elected officials, and the teachers' union has endorsed Ryan.
Ryan would focus on improving students' academics by creating a more welcoming culture, investing in resources to keep quality teachers, and engaging families in kids' education. She also is passionate about fully funding support for multi-language learners and special education, which became a priority after her conversations with educators. Ryan also wants to elevate the student voice by including student representatives on the board to inform their strategic plan.
Ryan has one of the most impressive and detailed platforms that we have seen in all school board races this year. Her dedication to racial justice and her extensive experience advocating for students make her by far the best choice in this race.
Melanie Ryan
Melanie Ryan is a progressive advocate who is challenging incumbent Chuck Whitfield to represent District 2 on the Monroe School Board. Ryan has worked as a school social worker and an advocate for foster students while earning her master's in social work.
-
-
Melanie Ryan is a progressive advocate who is challenging incumbent Chuck Whitfield to represent District 2 on the Monroe School Board. Ryan has worked as a school social worker and an advocate for foster students while earning her master's in social work. She then moved into the private sector, where she got experience managing large budgets and projects for Microsoft Education. Now, she is a certified diversity coach, the founder of a nonprofit that fosters pets for low-income families, and an advocate with numerous social justice organizations like the Monroe Equity Council.
Monroe has faced challenges with school environment in recent years - several hate crimes made headlines, and many students stepped up to share their struggles with homophobic and racist slurs, bullying, and violence. Superintendent Justin Blasko resigned after he mishandled these racist incidents and was found to have created a toxic workplace himself.
Through her role as board president of the Monroe Equity Council, Ryan helped organize families of color to share their experiences and hold the superintendent accountable. If elected, she would fight for more consistent training for staff on how to handle bigotry in schools, create more accountability measures for leaders, and hire staff to coordinate diversity and inclusion efforts across the district.
Notably, the incumbent Chuck Whitfield voted against basic inclusivity trainings for staff, and continued to support Superintendent Blasko even after credible reports of his sexism and inappropriate behavior. Whitfield is an Army veteran and the owner of a vehicle-licensing agency. His platform centers around making a strategic plan and improving test scores, but lacks concrete ways he will support students and teachers. His statements on student safety focus on his fears about drugs and alcohol, but fail to acknowledge the racism that has led several students of color to leave school. Whitfield is supported by several Republican elected officials, and the teachers' union has endorsed Ryan.
Ryan would focus on improving students' academics by creating a more welcoming culture, investing in resources to keep quality teachers, and engaging families in kids' education. She also is passionate about fully funding support for multi-language learners and special education, which became a priority after her conversations with educators. Ryan also wants to elevate the student voice by including student representatives on the board to inform their strategic plan.
Ryan has one of the most impressive and detailed platforms that we have seen in all school board races this year. Her dedication to racial justice and her extensive experience advocating for students make her by far the best choice in this race.
Last updated: 2023-10-27
-
-
Incumbent director Laura Flores Cailloux is running for another term in Mount Vernon School Board, Director District 1. Cailloux first joined the school board in 2006 and served until 2011 before she was elected for another term in 2019. She is a business owner, college instructor, and nonprofit leader.
In this race, Cailloux is running on a progressive platform to invest in our school district and students. She wants to increase graduation rates, continue strengthening paths to college by partnering with the state legislature, and expand mental health services to ensure student well-being. Cailloux wants the Mount Vernon school district to be a place of belonging and success for students and families of all backgrounds.
Dave Cherrick is a retired car salesman and real estate agent. Cherrick lacks any campaign presence and has shared no platform in this race. However, he has been endorsed by the county Republicans. If elected, Cherrick won’t bring progress to the school board to address the diverse needs of the district.
Laura Flores Cailloux has earned another term in Mount Vernon School Board, Director District 1, and she deserves your vote in this race.
Last updated: 2023-11-03Laura Flores Cailloux
Incumbent director Laura Flores Cailloux is running for another term in Mount Vernon School Board, Director District 1. Cailloux first joined the school board in 2006 and served until 2011 before she was elected for another term in 2019.
Incumbent director Laura Flores Cailloux is running for another term in Mount Vernon School Board, Director District 1. Cailloux first joined the school board in 2006 and served until 2011 before she was elected for another term in 2019. She is a business owner, college instructor, and nonprofit leader.
In this race, Cailloux is running on a progressive platform to invest in our school district and students. She wants to increase graduation rates, continue strengthening paths to college by partnering with the state legislature, and expand mental health services to ensure student well-being. Cailloux wants the Mount Vernon school district to be a place of belonging and success for students and families of all backgrounds.
Dave Cherrick is a retired car salesman and real estate agent. Cherrick lacks any campaign presence and has shared no platform in this race. However, he has been endorsed by the county Republicans. If elected, Cherrick won’t bring progress to the school board to address the diverse needs of the district.
Laura Flores Cailloux has earned another term in Mount Vernon School Board, Director District 1, and she deserves your vote in this race.
Laura Flores Cailloux
Incumbent director Laura Flores Cailloux is running for another term in Mount Vernon School Board, Director District 1. Cailloux first joined the school board in 2006 and served until 2011 before she was elected for another term in 2019.
-
-
Incumbent director Laura Flores Cailloux is running for another term in Mount Vernon School Board, Director District 1. Cailloux first joined the school board in 2006 and served until 2011 before she was elected for another term in 2019. She is a business owner, college instructor, and nonprofit leader.
In this race, Cailloux is running on a progressive platform to invest in our school district and students. She wants to increase graduation rates, continue strengthening paths to college by partnering with the state legislature, and expand mental health services to ensure student well-being. Cailloux wants the Mount Vernon school district to be a place of belonging and success for students and families of all backgrounds.
Dave Cherrick is a retired car salesman and real estate agent. Cherrick lacks any campaign presence and has shared no platform in this race. However, he has been endorsed by the county Republicans. If elected, Cherrick won’t bring progress to the school board to address the diverse needs of the district.
Laura Flores Cailloux has earned another term in Mount Vernon School Board, Director District 1, and she deserves your vote in this race.
Last updated: 2023-11-03
-
-
Natasha Fectau Minger is challenging incumbent Mike Desmond for North Kitsap School Board, Position 2. Minger has served on multiple community boards to advise on issues that affect young children, organized parents to get involved in family issues, and advocated for change at the state level.
As a single working mom raising a son on the autism spectrum, Minger was motivated to become an advocate for children in special education. Her background as an Alaska Native has also allowed her to build trust with tribal parents and organizations. Minger has led outreach for programs like the Child Tax Credit and Headstart, helping working people and tribal parents access resources to help their children thrive.
She is running against Mike Desmond, the current vice president of the North Kitsap School Board, is running to retain his seat in Position 2 on the board. Desmond is a U.S. Navy Reserve officer and the former vice president of the PTSA at Poulsbo Elementary. If re-elected, he would prioritize creating opportunities for students of all backgrounds, modernizing our facilities, and building a closer relationship with law enforcement.
Recently, the North Kitsap Education Association, which represents public school educators, voted to express a lack of confidence in the current school board, including Desmond. Teachers said that the board made decisions without including or listening to staff in schools.
If elected, Minger promises to bring more transparency, inclusivity, and respect for diverse histories to the North Kitsap School Board. Her dedication to educators and parents of every background have earned her endorsements from groups like the Washington Education Association, 23rd District Democrats, and Native Vote.
Minger is the best choice in this race.
Last updated: 2023-10-20Natasha Fecteau Minger
Natasha Fectau Minger is challenging incumbent Mike Desmond for North Kitsap School Board, Position 2.
Natasha Fectau Minger is challenging incumbent Mike Desmond for North Kitsap School Board, Position 2. Minger has served on multiple community boards to advise on issues that affect young children, organized parents to get involved in family issues, and advocated for change at the state level.
As a single working mom raising a son on the autism spectrum, Minger was motivated to become an advocate for children in special education. Her background as an Alaska Native has also allowed her to build trust with tribal parents and organizations. Minger has led outreach for programs like the Child Tax Credit and Headstart, helping working people and tribal parents access resources to help their children thrive.
She is running against Mike Desmond, the current vice president of the North Kitsap School Board, is running to retain his seat in Position 2 on the board. Desmond is a U.S. Navy Reserve officer and the former vice president of the PTSA at Poulsbo Elementary. If re-elected, he would prioritize creating opportunities for students of all backgrounds, modernizing our facilities, and building a closer relationship with law enforcement.
Recently, the North Kitsap Education Association, which represents public school educators, voted to express a lack of confidence in the current school board, including Desmond. Teachers said that the board made decisions without including or listening to staff in schools.
If elected, Minger promises to bring more transparency, inclusivity, and respect for diverse histories to the North Kitsap School Board. Her dedication to educators and parents of every background have earned her endorsements from groups like the Washington Education Association, 23rd District Democrats, and Native Vote.
Minger is the best choice in this race.
Natasha Fecteau Minger
Natasha Fectau Minger is challenging incumbent Mike Desmond for North Kitsap School Board, Position 2.
-
-
Natasha Fectau Minger is challenging incumbent Mike Desmond for North Kitsap School Board, Position 2. Minger has served on multiple community boards to advise on issues that affect young children, organized parents to get involved in family issues, and advocated for change at the state level.
As a single working mom raising a son on the autism spectrum, Minger was motivated to become an advocate for children in special education. Her background as an Alaska Native has also allowed her to build trust with tribal parents and organizations. Minger has led outreach for programs like the Child Tax Credit and Headstart, helping working people and tribal parents access resources to help their children thrive.
She is running against Mike Desmond, the current vice president of the North Kitsap School Board, is running to retain his seat in Position 2 on the board. Desmond is a U.S. Navy Reserve officer and the former vice president of the PTSA at Poulsbo Elementary. If re-elected, he would prioritize creating opportunities for students of all backgrounds, modernizing our facilities, and building a closer relationship with law enforcement.
Recently, the North Kitsap Education Association, which represents public school educators, voted to express a lack of confidence in the current school board, including Desmond. Teachers said that the board made decisions without including or listening to staff in schools.
If elected, Minger promises to bring more transparency, inclusivity, and respect for diverse histories to the North Kitsap School Board. Her dedication to educators and parents of every background have earned her endorsements from groups like the Washington Education Association, 23rd District Democrats, and Native Vote.
Minger is the best choice in this race.
Last updated: 2023-10-20
-
-
Terri Schumacher is running for North Kitsap School Board in District 4 to create healthy schools that meet every students' needs. Schumacher is a owner of a local salon, the former president of the Historic Downtown Poulsbo Association, and a volunteer with her PTA. She is a mother of two who has firsthand experience with her son's school closure, overcrowded classrooms, and long bus commutes.
As a person who was able to come up from poverty through a trade school education, Schumacher wants schools to create pathways for all students, no matter their learning style, background, or goals after graduation. She is also running to increase the school boards' transparency with the public. If elected, she would bring back community committees to include diverse voices in the decisions being made by the board.
Her opponent for the District 4 seat is Beverly Godfrey, a conservative third grade teacher. Godfrey is supported by the Kitsap County Republicans and the Family Policy Institute, a far-right Christian interest groups that wants to enforce "Biblical values" in our public schools.
Godfrey has publicly opposed Washington's access to abortions, and criticized the 2021 law that brought teachers much-needed training on how to be inclusive to students from diverse cultures and backgrounds.
Schumacher's dedication to putting kids first has earned her endorsements from educators, progressive organizations, and local tribes. She is by far the best choice in this race.
Last updated: 2023-10-13Terri Schumacher
Terri Schumacher is running for North Kitsap School Board in District 4 to create healthy schools that meet every students' needs. Schumacher is a owner of a local salon, the former president of the Historic Downtown Poulsbo Association, and a volunteer with her PTA.
Terri Schumacher is running for North Kitsap School Board in District 4 to create healthy schools that meet every students' needs. Schumacher is a owner of a local salon, the former president of the Historic Downtown Poulsbo Association, and a volunteer with her PTA. She is a mother of two who has firsthand experience with her son's school closure, overcrowded classrooms, and long bus commutes.
As a person who was able to come up from poverty through a trade school education, Schumacher wants schools to create pathways for all students, no matter their learning style, background, or goals after graduation. She is also running to increase the school boards' transparency with the public. If elected, she would bring back community committees to include diverse voices in the decisions being made by the board.
Her opponent for the District 4 seat is Beverly Godfrey, a conservative third grade teacher. Godfrey is supported by the Kitsap County Republicans and the Family Policy Institute, a far-right Christian interest groups that wants to enforce "Biblical values" in our public schools.
Godfrey has publicly opposed Washington's access to abortions, and criticized the 2021 law that brought teachers much-needed training on how to be inclusive to students from diverse cultures and backgrounds.
Schumacher's dedication to putting kids first has earned her endorsements from educators, progressive organizations, and local tribes. She is by far the best choice in this race.
Terri Schumacher
Terri Schumacher is running for North Kitsap School Board in District 4 to create healthy schools that meet every students' needs. Schumacher is a owner of a local salon, the former president of the Historic Downtown Poulsbo Association, and a volunteer with her PTA.
-
-
Terri Schumacher is running for North Kitsap School Board in District 4 to create healthy schools that meet every students' needs. Schumacher is a owner of a local salon, the former president of the Historic Downtown Poulsbo Association, and a volunteer with her PTA. She is a mother of two who has firsthand experience with her son's school closure, overcrowded classrooms, and long bus commutes.
As a person who was able to come up from poverty through a trade school education, Schumacher wants schools to create pathways for all students, no matter their learning style, background, or goals after graduation. She is also running to increase the school boards' transparency with the public. If elected, she would bring back community committees to include diverse voices in the decisions being made by the board.
Her opponent for the District 4 seat is Beverly Godfrey, a conservative third grade teacher. Godfrey is supported by the Kitsap County Republicans and the Family Policy Institute, a far-right Christian interest groups that wants to enforce "Biblical values" in our public schools.
Godfrey has publicly opposed Washington's access to abortions, and criticized the 2021 law that brought teachers much-needed training on how to be inclusive to students from diverse cultures and backgrounds.
Schumacher's dedication to putting kids first has earned her endorsements from educators, progressive organizations, and local tribes. She is by far the best choice in this race.
Last updated: 2023-10-13
-
-
Stacy Mills is running unopposed to represent District 5 on the North Kitsap School Board. Her opponent, Melanie Miller, withdrew from the race in September due to family reasons.
Mills has deep roots in the area as a member of the S'Klallam tribe and the fourth generation in her family to graduate from North Kitsap public schools. Mills works with both the Port Gamble S'Klallam Tribal Government and the local community health center, where she helps bring services to students and families. As someone who has been both a student and a parent in the North Kitsap School District, Mills is motivated to help every child reach their full potential in the classroom.
Recently, the North Kitsap Education Association (NKEA), which represents public school educators, voted to express a lack of confidence in the current school board. If elected, Mills would make it a priority to increase transparency and communication with both teachers and the public. She suggests creating committees to receive feedback directly from teachers, and has been endorsed by the NKEA. She also is running to creatively fund education in an equitable way and to make sure the board has representation from the diverse families in our community.
Mills has earned the support of progressives, educators, and local tribes, and deserves your vote for the North Kitsap School Board.
Last updated: 2023-10-13Stacy Mills
Stacy Mills is running unopposed to represent District 5 on the North Kitsap School Board. Her opponent, Melanie Miller, withdrew from the race in September due to family reasons.
Stacy Mills is running unopposed to represent District 5 on the North Kitsap School Board. Her opponent, Melanie Miller, withdrew from the race in September due to family reasons.
Mills has deep roots in the area as a member of the S'Klallam tribe and the fourth generation in her family to graduate from North Kitsap public schools. Mills works with both the Port Gamble S'Klallam Tribal Government and the local community health center, where she helps bring services to students and families. As someone who has been both a student and a parent in the North Kitsap School District, Mills is motivated to help every child reach their full potential in the classroom.
Recently, the North Kitsap Education Association (NKEA), which represents public school educators, voted to express a lack of confidence in the current school board. If elected, Mills would make it a priority to increase transparency and communication with both teachers and the public. She suggests creating committees to receive feedback directly from teachers, and has been endorsed by the NKEA. She also is running to creatively fund education in an equitable way and to make sure the board has representation from the diverse families in our community.
Mills has earned the support of progressives, educators, and local tribes, and deserves your vote for the North Kitsap School Board.
Stacy Mills
Stacy Mills is running unopposed to represent District 5 on the North Kitsap School Board. Her opponent, Melanie Miller, withdrew from the race in September due to family reasons.
-
-
Stacy Mills is running unopposed to represent District 5 on the North Kitsap School Board. Her opponent, Melanie Miller, withdrew from the race in September due to family reasons.
Mills has deep roots in the area as a member of the S'Klallam tribe and the fourth generation in her family to graduate from North Kitsap public schools. Mills works with both the Port Gamble S'Klallam Tribal Government and the local community health center, where she helps bring services to students and families. As someone who has been both a student and a parent in the North Kitsap School District, Mills is motivated to help every child reach their full potential in the classroom.
Recently, the North Kitsap Education Association (NKEA), which represents public school educators, voted to express a lack of confidence in the current school board. If elected, Mills would make it a priority to increase transparency and communication with both teachers and the public. She suggests creating committees to receive feedback directly from teachers, and has been endorsed by the NKEA. She also is running to creatively fund education in an equitable way and to make sure the board has representation from the diverse families in our community.
Mills has earned the support of progressives, educators, and local tribes, and deserves your vote for the North Kitsap School Board.
Last updated: 2023-10-13
-
-
Electrical engineer Han Tran is running for Northshore School Board, Director District 3 to replace David Cogan, who is not seeking re-election. Tran is an active community advocate, previously running for Bothell City Council in 2021 on a strong progressive platform. In addition, she participated in the school district’s Ethnic Studies Work Team and served as a Washington Human Rights Commissioner.
As an immigrant and a working mother of Northshore district students, Tran wants to champion equity and inclusion, empower educators, and bring a holistic and progressive approach to addressing the district’s needs. She would work to close opportunity gaps by implementing targeted academic support, culturally responsive teaching, and accountability metrics. Tran also believes in empowering staff with high quality professional development and data-informed decisionmaking. The rest of her campaign priorities are equally detailed and community-centric, reflecting her deep knowledge of the issues and the district. In this race, Tran has received an impressive list of progressive endorsements from unions, Democratic organizations, and elected officials.
Myriam Juritz, a substitute teacher with a Doctorate in Engineering in the Northshore School District, is running against Tran for the District 3 director seat. Juritz serves on the board of the Northshore Schools Foundation, and has also served with the Natural Leaders program, NSD Parent Advisory for Student Success, and more. She is a Spanish-speaking immigrant and credits her upbringing in political unrest as motivating her to run for local government to ensure that community needs are met. Juritz has also volunteered in the district extensively to help improve the Dual Language program, English Language Arts, and the Wellness and Safety Task Force. Her campaign platform emphasizes improving academic excellence and student health, both mental and physical. She states that fact-based education, resilience, and long-term fiscal responsibility is core to improving schools and education. However, her available platform is not as detailed as Tran’s, nor has she earned as many community endorsements.
Tran is the clear choice in this race and deserves your vote for Northshore School Board Director, District 3.Last updated: 2023-10-24Han Tran
Electrical engineer Han Tran is running for Northshore School Board, Director District 3 to replace David Cogan, who is not seeking re-election. Tran is an active community advocate, previously running for Bothell City Council in 2021 on a strong progressive platform.
Electrical engineer Han Tran is running for Northshore School Board, Director District 3 to replace David Cogan, who is not seeking re-election. Tran is an active community advocate, previously running for Bothell City Council in 2021 on a strong progressive platform. In addition, she participated in the school district’s Ethnic Studies Work Team and served as a Washington Human Rights Commissioner.
As an immigrant and a working mother of Northshore district students, Tran wants to champion equity and inclusion, empower educators, and bring a holistic and progressive approach to addressing the district’s needs. She would work to close opportunity gaps by implementing targeted academic support, culturally responsive teaching, and accountability metrics. Tran also believes in empowering staff with high quality professional development and data-informed decisionmaking. The rest of her campaign priorities are equally detailed and community-centric, reflecting her deep knowledge of the issues and the district. In this race, Tran has received an impressive list of progressive endorsements from unions, Democratic organizations, and elected officials.
Myriam Juritz, a substitute teacher with a Doctorate in Engineering in the Northshore School District, is running against Tran for the District 3 director seat. Juritz serves on the board of the Northshore Schools Foundation, and has also served with the Natural Leaders program, NSD Parent Advisory for Student Success, and more. She is a Spanish-speaking immigrant and credits her upbringing in political unrest as motivating her to run for local government to ensure that community needs are met. Juritz has also volunteered in the district extensively to help improve the Dual Language program, English Language Arts, and the Wellness and Safety Task Force. Her campaign platform emphasizes improving academic excellence and student health, both mental and physical. She states that fact-based education, resilience, and long-term fiscal responsibility is core to improving schools and education. However, her available platform is not as detailed as Tran’s, nor has she earned as many community endorsements.
Tran is the clear choice in this race and deserves your vote for Northshore School Board Director, District 3.Han Tran
Electrical engineer Han Tran is running for Northshore School Board, Director District 3 to replace David Cogan, who is not seeking re-election. Tran is an active community advocate, previously running for Bothell City Council in 2021 on a strong progressive platform.
-
-
Electrical engineer Han Tran is running for Northshore School Board, Director District 3 to replace David Cogan, who is not seeking re-election. Tran is an active community advocate, previously running for Bothell City Council in 2021 on a strong progressive platform. In addition, she participated in the school district’s Ethnic Studies Work Team and served as a Washington Human Rights Commissioner.
As an immigrant and a working mother of Northshore district students, Tran wants to champion equity and inclusion, empower educators, and bring a holistic and progressive approach to addressing the district’s needs. She would work to close opportunity gaps by implementing targeted academic support, culturally responsive teaching, and accountability metrics. Tran also believes in empowering staff with high quality professional development and data-informed decisionmaking. The rest of her campaign priorities are equally detailed and community-centric, reflecting her deep knowledge of the issues and the district. In this race, Tran has received an impressive list of progressive endorsements from unions, Democratic organizations, and elected officials.
Myriam Juritz, a substitute teacher with a Doctorate in Engineering in the Northshore School District, is running against Tran for the District 3 director seat. Juritz serves on the board of the Northshore Schools Foundation, and has also served with the Natural Leaders program, NSD Parent Advisory for Student Success, and more. She is a Spanish-speaking immigrant and credits her upbringing in political unrest as motivating her to run for local government to ensure that community needs are met. Juritz has also volunteered in the district extensively to help improve the Dual Language program, English Language Arts, and the Wellness and Safety Task Force. Her campaign platform emphasizes improving academic excellence and student health, both mental and physical. She states that fact-based education, resilience, and long-term fiscal responsibility is core to improving schools and education. However, her available platform is not as detailed as Tran’s, nor has she earned as many community endorsements.
Tran is the clear choice in this race and deserves your vote for Northshore School Board Director, District 3.Last updated: 2023-10-24
-
-
Six-year incumbent Jessica Aws is running to retain her seat in Position 2 on the Oak Harbor School Board. During her career as a public librarian and prison librarian, Aws saw how strong schools have the power to affect our communities. She now works with the Oak Harbor Youth Coalition, where she coordinates substance use prevention efforts. She also serves on the board of the Whidbey Island Conservation District, and is the vice president of the current school board. Aws holds master's degrees in both medieval archaeology and library and information sciences.
During her time on the board, Aws was challenged by overcrowded schools where students filled over 40 portables. Although voters failed to pass the needed levy, the board was able to secure federal funding to build two additional elementary schools. If re-elected, Aws would prioritize building these schools within the limited budget, and would educate the community on why we need levy funds to repair our aging schools.
She also wants to focus on mental health supports, substance abuse prevention, and improving test scores that have declined since the pandemic. She additionally advocated to include an additional student representative on the board, and wants to find even more ways to include the student voice in decision-making.
Aws is being challenged by realtor Karen Lesetmoe, who ran for Washington state's House in 2022 as a Republican. Despite running to represent public schools, Lesetmoe's children attend a private, Christian school. Though she has not published a website or platform for her school board run, her 2022 campaign emphasized her opposition to climate regulations, abortion, and police accountability. She stated her belief in more "parental involvement" and "transparency around school curriculum," phrases conservatives often use to defend book bans, limiting comprehensive sex education, and other harmful policies.
Oak Harbor has dealt with several controversies as of late, like certain community members' push to allow counselors to out trans students to their parents, and one school principal's veto of a school play about the death of gay college student Matthew Shepherd. Aws has managed to maintain nonpartisanship in all these contentious moments, and has tabled the gender policy change for the moment. Lesetmoe, on the other hand, has posted anti-trans posts on social media, and vocally opposed the state bill protecting kids who are seeking gender-affirming or reproductive care. Electing her would create dangerous outcomes for our LGBTQ+ students.
Aws has the experience, education, and progressive support that the Oak Harbor School Board needs - she deserves your vote to maintain her seat in Position 2.
Last updated: 2023-11-02Jessica Aws
Six-year incumbent Jessica Aws is running to retain her seat in Position 2 on the Oak Harbor School Board. During her career as a public librarian and prison librarian, Aws saw how strong schools have the power to affect our communities.
Six-year incumbent Jessica Aws is running to retain her seat in Position 2 on the Oak Harbor School Board. During her career as a public librarian and prison librarian, Aws saw how strong schools have the power to affect our communities. She now works with the Oak Harbor Youth Coalition, where she coordinates substance use prevention efforts. She also serves on the board of the Whidbey Island Conservation District, and is the vice president of the current school board. Aws holds master's degrees in both medieval archaeology and library and information sciences.
During her time on the board, Aws was challenged by overcrowded schools where students filled over 40 portables. Although voters failed to pass the needed levy, the board was able to secure federal funding to build two additional elementary schools. If re-elected, Aws would prioritize building these schools within the limited budget, and would educate the community on why we need levy funds to repair our aging schools.
She also wants to focus on mental health supports, substance abuse prevention, and improving test scores that have declined since the pandemic. She additionally advocated to include an additional student representative on the board, and wants to find even more ways to include the student voice in decision-making.
Aws is being challenged by realtor Karen Lesetmoe, who ran for Washington state's House in 2022 as a Republican. Despite running to represent public schools, Lesetmoe's children attend a private, Christian school. Though she has not published a website or platform for her school board run, her 2022 campaign emphasized her opposition to climate regulations, abortion, and police accountability. She stated her belief in more "parental involvement" and "transparency around school curriculum," phrases conservatives often use to defend book bans, limiting comprehensive sex education, and other harmful policies.
Oak Harbor has dealt with several controversies as of late, like certain community members' push to allow counselors to out trans students to their parents, and one school principal's veto of a school play about the death of gay college student Matthew Shepherd. Aws has managed to maintain nonpartisanship in all these contentious moments, and has tabled the gender policy change for the moment. Lesetmoe, on the other hand, has posted anti-trans posts on social media, and vocally opposed the state bill protecting kids who are seeking gender-affirming or reproductive care. Electing her would create dangerous outcomes for our LGBTQ+ students.
Aws has the experience, education, and progressive support that the Oak Harbor School Board needs - she deserves your vote to maintain her seat in Position 2.
Jessica Aws
Six-year incumbent Jessica Aws is running to retain her seat in Position 2 on the Oak Harbor School Board. During her career as a public librarian and prison librarian, Aws saw how strong schools have the power to affect our communities.
-
-
Six-year incumbent Jessica Aws is running to retain her seat in Position 2 on the Oak Harbor School Board. During her career as a public librarian and prison librarian, Aws saw how strong schools have the power to affect our communities. She now works with the Oak Harbor Youth Coalition, where she coordinates substance use prevention efforts. She also serves on the board of the Whidbey Island Conservation District, and is the vice president of the current school board. Aws holds master's degrees in both medieval archaeology and library and information sciences.
During her time on the board, Aws was challenged by overcrowded schools where students filled over 40 portables. Although voters failed to pass the needed levy, the board was able to secure federal funding to build two additional elementary schools. If re-elected, Aws would prioritize building these schools within the limited budget, and would educate the community on why we need levy funds to repair our aging schools.
She also wants to focus on mental health supports, substance abuse prevention, and improving test scores that have declined since the pandemic. She additionally advocated to include an additional student representative on the board, and wants to find even more ways to include the student voice in decision-making.
Aws is being challenged by realtor Karen Lesetmoe, who ran for Washington state's House in 2022 as a Republican. Despite running to represent public schools, Lesetmoe's children attend a private, Christian school. Though she has not published a website or platform for her school board run, her 2022 campaign emphasized her opposition to climate regulations, abortion, and police accountability. She stated her belief in more "parental involvement" and "transparency around school curriculum," phrases conservatives often use to defend book bans, limiting comprehensive sex education, and other harmful policies.
Oak Harbor has dealt with several controversies as of late, like certain community members' push to allow counselors to out trans students to their parents, and one school principal's veto of a school play about the death of gay college student Matthew Shepherd. Aws has managed to maintain nonpartisanship in all these contentious moments, and has tabled the gender policy change for the moment. Lesetmoe, on the other hand, has posted anti-trans posts on social media, and vocally opposed the state bill protecting kids who are seeking gender-affirming or reproductive care. Electing her would create dangerous outcomes for our LGBTQ+ students.
Aws has the experience, education, and progressive support that the Oak Harbor School Board needs - she deserves your vote to maintain her seat in Position 2.
Last updated: 2023-11-02
-
-
Nicole Tesch is running to keep her seat on the Oak Harbor School Board, Position 4. Tesch has served on the board since she was appointed in 2022, and was recently hired as an assistant and communications coordinator with the Anacortes superintendent's office. She has an extensive background as a project manager and executive assistant in both the corporate world and the public sector. She has held positions with the cities of Oak Harbor and Anacortes, as well as Island County.
Tesch also was formerly the co-chair of Citizens for Better Schools, where she successfully campaigned for the 2021 levy that funded student programs, counselors, nurses, and librarians. As the legislative representative on the board, she has advocated for inclusionary practices and reforms to the ways we fund our schools. And after voters failed to pass a bond for school buildings, she wrote grant applications that secured nearly $30 million in federal dollars to fund an elementary school and early learning center. Tesch's skills as an advocate and grant manager will be instrumental as Oak Harbor decides how to fully fund education in future years.
If re-elected, Tesch would also focus on supporting the Running Start program, incorporating social and emotional learning, and creating an inclusive and supportive environment for kids and educators.
Tesch is being challenged by Jessica Thompson, who unsuccessfully sought election and appointment to the school board in recent years. Thompson is the state committeewoman for the Island County Republicans, and works as an operations manager at a cryptocurrency company. Like most conservative candidates, she has vocally opposed honest education about race and LGBTQ+ issues, fully funding repairs to our aging school buildings, and switching towards cleaner fuels in school vehicles and kitchens. She also was part of the crew of anti-maskers that disrupted school board meetings during the height of the pandemic, forcing them to return to virtual meetings. Unlike Tesch, who attended Oak Harbor High School and has five children in the school system she represents, Thompson has chosen to homeschool her kids.
Nicole Tesch is clearly the best choice in this race for Oak Harbor School Board, Position 4.
Last updated: 2023-10-27Nikki Tesch
Nicole Tesch is running to keep her seat on the Oak Harbor School Board, Position 4. Tesch has served on the board since she was appointed in 2022, and was recently hired as an assistant and communications coordinator with the Anacortes superintendent's office.
Nicole Tesch is running to keep her seat on the Oak Harbor School Board, Position 4. Tesch has served on the board since she was appointed in 2022, and was recently hired as an assistant and communications coordinator with the Anacortes superintendent's office. She has an extensive background as a project manager and executive assistant in both the corporate world and the public sector. She has held positions with the cities of Oak Harbor and Anacortes, as well as Island County.
Tesch also was formerly the co-chair of Citizens for Better Schools, where she successfully campaigned for the 2021 levy that funded student programs, counselors, nurses, and librarians. As the legislative representative on the board, she has advocated for inclusionary practices and reforms to the ways we fund our schools. And after voters failed to pass a bond for school buildings, she wrote grant applications that secured nearly $30 million in federal dollars to fund an elementary school and early learning center. Tesch's skills as an advocate and grant manager will be instrumental as Oak Harbor decides how to fully fund education in future years.
If re-elected, Tesch would also focus on supporting the Running Start program, incorporating social and emotional learning, and creating an inclusive and supportive environment for kids and educators.
Tesch is being challenged by Jessica Thompson, who unsuccessfully sought election and appointment to the school board in recent years. Thompson is the state committeewoman for the Island County Republicans, and works as an operations manager at a cryptocurrency company. Like most conservative candidates, she has vocally opposed honest education about race and LGBTQ+ issues, fully funding repairs to our aging school buildings, and switching towards cleaner fuels in school vehicles and kitchens. She also was part of the crew of anti-maskers that disrupted school board meetings during the height of the pandemic, forcing them to return to virtual meetings. Unlike Tesch, who attended Oak Harbor High School and has five children in the school system she represents, Thompson has chosen to homeschool her kids.
Nicole Tesch is clearly the best choice in this race for Oak Harbor School Board, Position 4.
Nikki Tesch
Nicole Tesch is running to keep her seat on the Oak Harbor School Board, Position 4. Tesch has served on the board since she was appointed in 2022, and was recently hired as an assistant and communications coordinator with the Anacortes superintendent's office.
-
-
Nicole Tesch is running to keep her seat on the Oak Harbor School Board, Position 4. Tesch has served on the board since she was appointed in 2022, and was recently hired as an assistant and communications coordinator with the Anacortes superintendent's office. She has an extensive background as a project manager and executive assistant in both the corporate world and the public sector. She has held positions with the cities of Oak Harbor and Anacortes, as well as Island County.
Tesch also was formerly the co-chair of Citizens for Better Schools, where she successfully campaigned for the 2021 levy that funded student programs, counselors, nurses, and librarians. As the legislative representative on the board, she has advocated for inclusionary practices and reforms to the ways we fund our schools. And after voters failed to pass a bond for school buildings, she wrote grant applications that secured nearly $30 million in federal dollars to fund an elementary school and early learning center. Tesch's skills as an advocate and grant manager will be instrumental as Oak Harbor decides how to fully fund education in future years.
If re-elected, Tesch would also focus on supporting the Running Start program, incorporating social and emotional learning, and creating an inclusive and supportive environment for kids and educators.
Tesch is being challenged by Jessica Thompson, who unsuccessfully sought election and appointment to the school board in recent years. Thompson is the state committeewoman for the Island County Republicans, and works as an operations manager at a cryptocurrency company. Like most conservative candidates, she has vocally opposed honest education about race and LGBTQ+ issues, fully funding repairs to our aging school buildings, and switching towards cleaner fuels in school vehicles and kitchens. She also was part of the crew of anti-maskers that disrupted school board meetings during the height of the pandemic, forcing them to return to virtual meetings. Unlike Tesch, who attended Oak Harbor High School and has five children in the school system she represents, Thompson has chosen to homeschool her kids.
Nicole Tesch is clearly the best choice in this race for Oak Harbor School Board, Position 4.
Last updated: 2023-10-27
-
-
Jess Tourtellotte-Palumbo is running for Olympia School Board in Director District 2. The seat is currently held by Talauna Reed who is running for a different district seat on the school board in this election. Tourtellotte-Palumbo is an academic specialist in disability support at Evergreen State College. She is disabled herself and is a longtime advocate for disability rights, access and accommodations, and community support. Tourtellotte-Palumbo is also involved in the community as a a trustee of the Olympia Education Foundation and a secretary of the Olympia United Soccer Club.
Tourtellotte-Palumbo is campaigning with an inclusive and optimistic platform. As a disabled student, Tourtellotte-Palumbo experienced strong support in her own education which she credits with setting her on a path for success. She wants to ensure that students from all marginalized backgrounds have the resources, services, and mentorship to thrive in our district. She is also running to strengthen transitional services and paths to higher education so that all students, regardless of their destination after graduation, have the confidence and skills to succeed. Additionally, Tourtellotte-Palumbo wants to dismantle the school-to-prison pipeline and improve curriculums so more histories and cultures are represented accurately. She has earned strong progressive support in this race.
Frank Durocher, who works in project management for software development, is the other candidate in this race. He is running on a far-right platform, including wanting to bring armed, uniformed police officers into our schools. If elected, he also wants to restrict funding to programs and services that keep our students safe, healthy, and academically supported.
Tourtellotte-Palumbo is a strong progressive voice and the best candidate in this race for Olympia School Board, Director District 2.
Last updated: 2023-10-31Jess Tourtellotte-Palumbo
Jess Tourtellotte-Palumbo is running for Olympia School Board in Director District 2. The seat is currently held by Talauna Reed who is running for a different district seat on the school board in this election.
Jess Tourtellotte-Palumbo is running for Olympia School Board in Director District 2. The seat is currently held by Talauna Reed who is running for a different district seat on the school board in this election. Tourtellotte-Palumbo is an academic specialist in disability support at Evergreen State College. She is disabled herself and is a longtime advocate for disability rights, access and accommodations, and community support. Tourtellotte-Palumbo is also involved in the community as a a trustee of the Olympia Education Foundation and a secretary of the Olympia United Soccer Club.
Tourtellotte-Palumbo is campaigning with an inclusive and optimistic platform. As a disabled student, Tourtellotte-Palumbo experienced strong support in her own education which she credits with setting her on a path for success. She wants to ensure that students from all marginalized backgrounds have the resources, services, and mentorship to thrive in our district. She is also running to strengthen transitional services and paths to higher education so that all students, regardless of their destination after graduation, have the confidence and skills to succeed. Additionally, Tourtellotte-Palumbo wants to dismantle the school-to-prison pipeline and improve curriculums so more histories and cultures are represented accurately. She has earned strong progressive support in this race.
Frank Durocher, who works in project management for software development, is the other candidate in this race. He is running on a far-right platform, including wanting to bring armed, uniformed police officers into our schools. If elected, he also wants to restrict funding to programs and services that keep our students safe, healthy, and academically supported.
Tourtellotte-Palumbo is a strong progressive voice and the best candidate in this race for Olympia School Board, Director District 2.
Jess Tourtellotte-Palumbo
Jess Tourtellotte-Palumbo is running for Olympia School Board in Director District 2. The seat is currently held by Talauna Reed who is running for a different district seat on the school board in this election.
-
-
Jess Tourtellotte-Palumbo is running for Olympia School Board in Director District 2. The seat is currently held by Talauna Reed who is running for a different district seat on the school board in this election. Tourtellotte-Palumbo is an academic specialist in disability support at Evergreen State College. She is disabled herself and is a longtime advocate for disability rights, access and accommodations, and community support. Tourtellotte-Palumbo is also involved in the community as a a trustee of the Olympia Education Foundation and a secretary of the Olympia United Soccer Club.
Tourtellotte-Palumbo is campaigning with an inclusive and optimistic platform. As a disabled student, Tourtellotte-Palumbo experienced strong support in her own education which she credits with setting her on a path for success. She wants to ensure that students from all marginalized backgrounds have the resources, services, and mentorship to thrive in our district. She is also running to strengthen transitional services and paths to higher education so that all students, regardless of their destination after graduation, have the confidence and skills to succeed. Additionally, Tourtellotte-Palumbo wants to dismantle the school-to-prison pipeline and improve curriculums so more histories and cultures are represented accurately. She has earned strong progressive support in this race.
Frank Durocher, who works in project management for software development, is the other candidate in this race. He is running on a far-right platform, including wanting to bring armed, uniformed police officers into our schools. If elected, he also wants to restrict funding to programs and services that keep our students safe, healthy, and academically supported.
Tourtellotte-Palumbo is a strong progressive voice and the best candidate in this race for Olympia School Board, Director District 2.
Last updated: 2023-10-31
-
-
Incumbent Hilary Seidel is running for another term on the Olympia School Board from District 4. Seidel was first elected to the school board in 2017 and now serves as the vice president. Outside of public service, Seidel works in the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction as the statewide recognition coordinator. She is also a parent to three children in the district and an avid community volunteer.
Her campaign platform strongly emphasizes the values of community engagement, innovation, and equity. On the council, her leadership approach is to be responsive and accountable to the community, including parents, students, and teachers with whom she speaks often. She wants to continue making our schools a place of belonging for students of all backgrounds. Seidel has earned a long list of endorsements that ranges from progressive elected leaders, nonprofits, unions, local Democrats, and community members.
Leslie Van Leishout is challenging Seidel for the District 4 seat. Van Leishout has spent nearly 30 years working in schools, both in teaching and administration. She wants to use a data-driven approach to prepare the district for modern challenges facing students, including investing in mental health resources, strengthening college, career, and technical prep programs, offering strong support to educators, and expanding special education programs.
We recommend Hilary Seidel for Olympia School Board, Director District 4 because of her strong track record in office, progressive vision for the district, and ample support from our partner organizations.
Last updated: 2023-10-19Hilary Seidel
Incumbent Hilary Seidel is running for another term on the Olympia School Board from District 4. Seidel was first elected to the school board in 2017 and now serves as the vice president.
Incumbent Hilary Seidel is running for another term on the Olympia School Board from District 4. Seidel was first elected to the school board in 2017 and now serves as the vice president. Outside of public service, Seidel works in the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction as the statewide recognition coordinator. She is also a parent to three children in the district and an avid community volunteer.
Her campaign platform strongly emphasizes the values of community engagement, innovation, and equity. On the council, her leadership approach is to be responsive and accountable to the community, including parents, students, and teachers with whom she speaks often. She wants to continue making our schools a place of belonging for students of all backgrounds. Seidel has earned a long list of endorsements that ranges from progressive elected leaders, nonprofits, unions, local Democrats, and community members.
Leslie Van Leishout is challenging Seidel for the District 4 seat. Van Leishout has spent nearly 30 years working in schools, both in teaching and administration. She wants to use a data-driven approach to prepare the district for modern challenges facing students, including investing in mental health resources, strengthening college, career, and technical prep programs, offering strong support to educators, and expanding special education programs.
We recommend Hilary Seidel for Olympia School Board, Director District 4 because of her strong track record in office, progressive vision for the district, and ample support from our partner organizations.
Hilary Seidel
Incumbent Hilary Seidel is running for another term on the Olympia School Board from District 4. Seidel was first elected to the school board in 2017 and now serves as the vice president.
-
-
Incumbent Hilary Seidel is running for another term on the Olympia School Board from District 4. Seidel was first elected to the school board in 2017 and now serves as the vice president. Outside of public service, Seidel works in the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction as the statewide recognition coordinator. She is also a parent to three children in the district and an avid community volunteer.
Her campaign platform strongly emphasizes the values of community engagement, innovation, and equity. On the council, her leadership approach is to be responsive and accountable to the community, including parents, students, and teachers with whom she speaks often. She wants to continue making our schools a place of belonging for students of all backgrounds. Seidel has earned a long list of endorsements that ranges from progressive elected leaders, nonprofits, unions, local Democrats, and community members.
Leslie Van Leishout is challenging Seidel for the District 4 seat. Van Leishout has spent nearly 30 years working in schools, both in teaching and administration. She wants to use a data-driven approach to prepare the district for modern challenges facing students, including investing in mental health resources, strengthening college, career, and technical prep programs, offering strong support to educators, and expanding special education programs.
We recommend Hilary Seidel for Olympia School Board, Director District 4 because of her strong track record in office, progressive vision for the district, and ample support from our partner organizations.
Last updated: 2023-10-19
-
-
Trish Crocker is challenging Republican incumbent Joseph Romero for Puyallup School Board, Director Position 2. Crocker has worked in health and human services for nearly 25 years, including in grants management for the county. She currently serves on the executive board for the local district Democrats and volunteers with the Waller Road Parent Teacher Organization. Through both her professional and volunteer work, Crocker has dedicated herself to bringing resources and services to community members who need them the most.
Crocker is running a community-focused campaign to bring the best opportunities and learning environments to Puyallup students. If elected, she would focus on creating a positive work environment for teachers that results in a better education for students; in this vein, she wants to raise wages, limit class sizes, and ensure adequate levels of staffing. As a parent and volunteer with the school district herself, Crocker’s campaign ideas are grounded in community needs, and she has earned endorsements from many community leaders.
Real estate broker and incumbent Joseph Romero is the current president of the Puyallup School Board where he has been serving since 2019. Romero is associated with Moms for Liberty, a far-right group that seeks to impose their agenda on our schools and take away parents' decisionmaking ability for their families. He attended a Moms for Liberty event this summer when attendees applauded being labeled a hate group. The extent of his conservative beliefs is not readily apparent in his vague campaign platform, though he prides himself on challenging Gov. Inslee’s leadership during the height of the coronavirus pandemic and re-opening public schools in Puyallup early.
Puyallup students, teachers, and families deserve school board leadership that trusts science, invests in all students, and keeps extremist ideas out of public curriculums. Trish Crocker is the clear choice in this race for Puyallup School Board, Director Position 2.
Last updated: 2023-10-19Trish Crocker
Trish Crocker is challenging Republican incumbent Joseph Romero for Puyallup School Board, Director Position 2. Crocker has worked in health and human services for nearly 25 years, including in grants management for the county.
Trish Crocker is challenging Republican incumbent Joseph Romero for Puyallup School Board, Director Position 2. Crocker has worked in health and human services for nearly 25 years, including in grants management for the county. She currently serves on the executive board for the local district Democrats and volunteers with the Waller Road Parent Teacher Organization. Through both her professional and volunteer work, Crocker has dedicated herself to bringing resources and services to community members who need them the most.
Crocker is running a community-focused campaign to bring the best opportunities and learning environments to Puyallup students. If elected, she would focus on creating a positive work environment for teachers that results in a better education for students; in this vein, she wants to raise wages, limit class sizes, and ensure adequate levels of staffing. As a parent and volunteer with the school district herself, Crocker’s campaign ideas are grounded in community needs, and she has earned endorsements from many community leaders.
Real estate broker and incumbent Joseph Romero is the current president of the Puyallup School Board where he has been serving since 2019. Romero is associated with Moms for Liberty, a far-right group that seeks to impose their agenda on our schools and take away parents' decisionmaking ability for their families. He attended a Moms for Liberty event this summer when attendees applauded being labeled a hate group. The extent of his conservative beliefs is not readily apparent in his vague campaign platform, though he prides himself on challenging Gov. Inslee’s leadership during the height of the coronavirus pandemic and re-opening public schools in Puyallup early.
Puyallup students, teachers, and families deserve school board leadership that trusts science, invests in all students, and keeps extremist ideas out of public curriculums. Trish Crocker is the clear choice in this race for Puyallup School Board, Director Position 2.
Trish Crocker
Trish Crocker is challenging Republican incumbent Joseph Romero for Puyallup School Board, Director Position 2. Crocker has worked in health and human services for nearly 25 years, including in grants management for the county.
-
-
Trish Crocker is challenging Republican incumbent Joseph Romero for Puyallup School Board, Director Position 2. Crocker has worked in health and human services for nearly 25 years, including in grants management for the county. She currently serves on the executive board for the local district Democrats and volunteers with the Waller Road Parent Teacher Organization. Through both her professional and volunteer work, Crocker has dedicated herself to bringing resources and services to community members who need them the most.
Crocker is running a community-focused campaign to bring the best opportunities and learning environments to Puyallup students. If elected, she would focus on creating a positive work environment for teachers that results in a better education for students; in this vein, she wants to raise wages, limit class sizes, and ensure adequate levels of staffing. As a parent and volunteer with the school district herself, Crocker’s campaign ideas are grounded in community needs, and she has earned endorsements from many community leaders.
Real estate broker and incumbent Joseph Romero is the current president of the Puyallup School Board where he has been serving since 2019. Romero is associated with Moms for Liberty, a far-right group that seeks to impose their agenda on our schools and take away parents' decisionmaking ability for their families. He attended a Moms for Liberty event this summer when attendees applauded being labeled a hate group. The extent of his conservative beliefs is not readily apparent in his vague campaign platform, though he prides himself on challenging Gov. Inslee’s leadership during the height of the coronavirus pandemic and re-opening public schools in Puyallup early.
Puyallup students, teachers, and families deserve school board leadership that trusts science, invests in all students, and keeps extremist ideas out of public curriculums. Trish Crocker is the clear choice in this race for Puyallup School Board, Director Position 2.
Last updated: 2023-10-19
-
-
Early learning coach Amanda Cuthbert is running for Puyallup School Board, Director Position 3. Cuthbert works for an early learning organization focused on providing a kid-centric, inclusive education. She also currently serves on the Puyallup Public Library board, as board secretary for the Washington Child Care Centers Association, and as a member of the Two-Way Racial Healing Project board.
Cuthbert has been involved with the school district as a parent, PTA member, and parent volunteer. With her professional background in early learning education and her extensive public service experience, Cuthbert is strongly qualified to bring community solutions to the school board that help students, teachers, and families thrive.
Cuthbert is running on a platform focused on creating safe and welcoming schools. If elected, Cuthbert hopes to continue rebuilding a positive relationship between district teachers and the school board. She recognizes that all students deserve to learn in environments free from gun violence, and she wants to focus on safety measures that address persistent fears of school shootings.
Cuthbert is facing Gretchen Miles, a social worker at a nonprofit and a Moms for Liberty candidate. Like other far-right candidates running for school board this year, she would try to impose a top-down political agenda on our kids' education. She would prevent parents from deciding which books their children should read or what health information is available to students.
Our schools need leaders with local experience who will put the needs and safety of students before politics. Amanda Cuthbert is the clear choice in this race for Puyallup School Board, Director Position 3.
Last updated: 2023-10-19Amanda Cuthbert
Early learning coach Amanda Cuthbert is running for Puyallup School Board, Director Position 3. Cuthbert works for an early learning organization focused on providing a kid-centric, inclusive education.
Early learning coach Amanda Cuthbert is running for Puyallup School Board, Director Position 3. Cuthbert works for an early learning organization focused on providing a kid-centric, inclusive education. She also currently serves on the Puyallup Public Library board, as board secretary for the Washington Child Care Centers Association, and as a member of the Two-Way Racial Healing Project board.
Cuthbert has been involved with the school district as a parent, PTA member, and parent volunteer. With her professional background in early learning education and her extensive public service experience, Cuthbert is strongly qualified to bring community solutions to the school board that help students, teachers, and families thrive.
Cuthbert is running on a platform focused on creating safe and welcoming schools. If elected, Cuthbert hopes to continue rebuilding a positive relationship between district teachers and the school board. She recognizes that all students deserve to learn in environments free from gun violence, and she wants to focus on safety measures that address persistent fears of school shootings.
Cuthbert is facing Gretchen Miles, a social worker at a nonprofit and a Moms for Liberty candidate. Like other far-right candidates running for school board this year, she would try to impose a top-down political agenda on our kids' education. She would prevent parents from deciding which books their children should read or what health information is available to students.
Our schools need leaders with local experience who will put the needs and safety of students before politics. Amanda Cuthbert is the clear choice in this race for Puyallup School Board, Director Position 3.
Amanda Cuthbert
Early learning coach Amanda Cuthbert is running for Puyallup School Board, Director Position 3. Cuthbert works for an early learning organization focused on providing a kid-centric, inclusive education.
-
-
Early learning coach Amanda Cuthbert is running for Puyallup School Board, Director Position 3. Cuthbert works for an early learning organization focused on providing a kid-centric, inclusive education. She also currently serves on the Puyallup Public Library board, as board secretary for the Washington Child Care Centers Association, and as a member of the Two-Way Racial Healing Project board.
Cuthbert has been involved with the school district as a parent, PTA member, and parent volunteer. With her professional background in early learning education and her extensive public service experience, Cuthbert is strongly qualified to bring community solutions to the school board that help students, teachers, and families thrive.
Cuthbert is running on a platform focused on creating safe and welcoming schools. If elected, Cuthbert hopes to continue rebuilding a positive relationship between district teachers and the school board. She recognizes that all students deserve to learn in environments free from gun violence, and she wants to focus on safety measures that address persistent fears of school shootings.
Cuthbert is facing Gretchen Miles, a social worker at a nonprofit and a Moms for Liberty candidate. Like other far-right candidates running for school board this year, she would try to impose a top-down political agenda on our kids' education. She would prevent parents from deciding which books their children should read or what health information is available to students.
Our schools need leaders with local experience who will put the needs and safety of students before politics. Amanda Cuthbert is the clear choice in this race for Puyallup School Board, Director Position 3.
Last updated: 2023-10-19
-
-
Educator and community leader Davida Haygood is running for Puyallup School Board, Director Position 5 to replace Turan Kayaoglu, who is not seeking re-election. Haygood has more than 25 years of experience in education and currently works at Pierce College as the interim director of education programs. She is also a community leader in diversity, equity, and inclusion and previously organized the Two-Way Racial Healing Project. Now, Haygood also serves on the Design Review & Historic Preservation Board.
As both an educator herself and a parent, Haygood would bring an important perspective to the school board. Her priorities are centered around connecting both students and teachers to the resources they need to succeed. Haygood wants to lead with an equity lens and is determined to make sure that every student, regardless of their background, has the same support and opportunities at school. She wants to invest in student mental health and special education, while also strengthening the pathways to college and vocational schools for all students. Haygood has received an impressive slate of endorsements in this race including from elected leaders, local educators, unions, and local Democratic groups.
Haygood is running against Shannon Burch, who works in sales and analysis in the private sector. Burch is a parent to students in the district and has served as an active PTA and PTSA member. Her platform aligns with a sharply more conservative agenda in school board leadership. Burch and some fellow Puyallup school board candidates are running as a slate associated with Moms For Liberty, a far-right group that's trying to impose their agenda on public schools. They would take away the freedom for parents to choose what's best for their kids and have sought to ban books in school libraries. Burch even joined an event over the summer hosted by Moms for Liberty, which created serious concerns about what agenda she would pursue if elected.
Davida Haygood is the best candidate in this race and deserves your vote for Puyallup School Board, Director District 5.
Last updated: 2023-10-19Davida Haygood
Educator and community leader Davida Haygood is running for Puyallup School Board, Director Position 5 to replace Turan Kayaoglu, who is not seeking re-election.
Educator and community leader Davida Haygood is running for Puyallup School Board, Director Position 5 to replace Turan Kayaoglu, who is not seeking re-election. Haygood has more than 25 years of experience in education and currently works at Pierce College as the interim director of education programs. She is also a community leader in diversity, equity, and inclusion and previously organized the Two-Way Racial Healing Project. Now, Haygood also serves on the Design Review & Historic Preservation Board.
As both an educator herself and a parent, Haygood would bring an important perspective to the school board. Her priorities are centered around connecting both students and teachers to the resources they need to succeed. Haygood wants to lead with an equity lens and is determined to make sure that every student, regardless of their background, has the same support and opportunities at school. She wants to invest in student mental health and special education, while also strengthening the pathways to college and vocational schools for all students. Haygood has received an impressive slate of endorsements in this race including from elected leaders, local educators, unions, and local Democratic groups.
Haygood is running against Shannon Burch, who works in sales and analysis in the private sector. Burch is a parent to students in the district and has served as an active PTA and PTSA member. Her platform aligns with a sharply more conservative agenda in school board leadership. Burch and some fellow Puyallup school board candidates are running as a slate associated with Moms For Liberty, a far-right group that's trying to impose their agenda on public schools. They would take away the freedom for parents to choose what's best for their kids and have sought to ban books in school libraries. Burch even joined an event over the summer hosted by Moms for Liberty, which created serious concerns about what agenda she would pursue if elected.
Davida Haygood is the best candidate in this race and deserves your vote for Puyallup School Board, Director District 5.
Davida Haygood
Educator and community leader Davida Haygood is running for Puyallup School Board, Director Position 5 to replace Turan Kayaoglu, who is not seeking re-election.
-
-
Educator and community leader Davida Haygood is running for Puyallup School Board, Director Position 5 to replace Turan Kayaoglu, who is not seeking re-election. Haygood has more than 25 years of experience in education and currently works at Pierce College as the interim director of education programs. She is also a community leader in diversity, equity, and inclusion and previously organized the Two-Way Racial Healing Project. Now, Haygood also serves on the Design Review & Historic Preservation Board.
As both an educator herself and a parent, Haygood would bring an important perspective to the school board. Her priorities are centered around connecting both students and teachers to the resources they need to succeed. Haygood wants to lead with an equity lens and is determined to make sure that every student, regardless of their background, has the same support and opportunities at school. She wants to invest in student mental health and special education, while also strengthening the pathways to college and vocational schools for all students. Haygood has received an impressive slate of endorsements in this race including from elected leaders, local educators, unions, and local Democratic groups.
Haygood is running against Shannon Burch, who works in sales and analysis in the private sector. Burch is a parent to students in the district and has served as an active PTA and PTSA member. Her platform aligns with a sharply more conservative agenda in school board leadership. Burch and some fellow Puyallup school board candidates are running as a slate associated with Moms For Liberty, a far-right group that's trying to impose their agenda on public schools. They would take away the freedom for parents to choose what's best for their kids and have sought to ban books in school libraries. Burch even joined an event over the summer hosted by Moms for Liberty, which created serious concerns about what agenda she would pursue if elected.
Davida Haygood is the best candidate in this race and deserves your vote for Puyallup School Board, Director District 5.
Last updated: 2023-10-19
-
-
Chemist Chelsie Beck is running for Richland School Board, Director District 3. The seat is currently held by Lindsay Lightner, who was appointed to fill a vacancy on the board in August of this year. For more than a decade, Beck has worked for a local lab managed by the Department of Energy. Her mother was a Washington state public school teacher and now she is a parent to two children in the school district. Additionally, Beck is an active community volunteer, working as a coach with the YMCA, an elementary school classroom volunteer, and the treasurer for the local Cub Scout Pack.
Beck wants to bring open-minded and responsive leadership to the school district. Her central goal is to refocus the school board on delivering high-quality education. Beck also wants to work to close the achievement gap so that all Richland students have the support and opportunities to achieve success. Beck has earned strong endorsements from educators and community leaders in this race.
Beck is facing Nino Kapitula, who wants to make the school district a battleground for divisive politics and misinformation. Kapitula, a former insurance agent, is Republican-endorsed and boasts a conservative campaign platform. If elected, she would likely distract the district from addressing the most important issues facing students and families by focusing instead on a conservative political agenda.
We recommend Chelsie Beck for Richland School Board, Director District 3.
Last updated: 2023-10-10Chelsie Beck
Chemist Chelsie Beck is running for Richland School Board, Director District 3. The seat is currently held by Lindsay Lightner, who was appointed to fill a vacancy on the board in August of this year. For more than a decade, Beck has worked for a local lab managed by the Department of Energy.
Chemist Chelsie Beck is running for Richland School Board, Director District 3. The seat is currently held by Lindsay Lightner, who was appointed to fill a vacancy on the board in August of this year. For more than a decade, Beck has worked for a local lab managed by the Department of Energy. Her mother was a Washington state public school teacher and now she is a parent to two children in the school district. Additionally, Beck is an active community volunteer, working as a coach with the YMCA, an elementary school classroom volunteer, and the treasurer for the local Cub Scout Pack.
Beck wants to bring open-minded and responsive leadership to the school district. Her central goal is to refocus the school board on delivering high-quality education. Beck also wants to work to close the achievement gap so that all Richland students have the support and opportunities to achieve success. Beck has earned strong endorsements from educators and community leaders in this race.
Beck is facing Nino Kapitula, who wants to make the school district a battleground for divisive politics and misinformation. Kapitula, a former insurance agent, is Republican-endorsed and boasts a conservative campaign platform. If elected, she would likely distract the district from addressing the most important issues facing students and families by focusing instead on a conservative political agenda.
We recommend Chelsie Beck for Richland School Board, Director District 3.
Chelsie Beck
Chemist Chelsie Beck is running for Richland School Board, Director District 3. The seat is currently held by Lindsay Lightner, who was appointed to fill a vacancy on the board in August of this year. For more than a decade, Beck has worked for a local lab managed by the Department of Energy.
-
-
Chemist Chelsie Beck is running for Richland School Board, Director District 3. The seat is currently held by Lindsay Lightner, who was appointed to fill a vacancy on the board in August of this year. For more than a decade, Beck has worked for a local lab managed by the Department of Energy. Her mother was a Washington state public school teacher and now she is a parent to two children in the school district. Additionally, Beck is an active community volunteer, working as a coach with the YMCA, an elementary school classroom volunteer, and the treasurer for the local Cub Scout Pack.
Beck wants to bring open-minded and responsive leadership to the school district. Her central goal is to refocus the school board on delivering high-quality education. Beck also wants to work to close the achievement gap so that all Richland students have the support and opportunities to achieve success. Beck has earned strong endorsements from educators and community leaders in this race.
Beck is facing Nino Kapitula, who wants to make the school district a battleground for divisive politics and misinformation. Kapitula, a former insurance agent, is Republican-endorsed and boasts a conservative campaign platform. If elected, she would likely distract the district from addressing the most important issues facing students and families by focusing instead on a conservative political agenda.
We recommend Chelsie Beck for Richland School Board, Director District 3.
Last updated: 2023-10-10
-
-
Katrina Waters is challenging conservative incumbent Kari Williams for Richland School Board, Director District 4. Waters is a fellow at a local lab managed by the Department of Energy, where she has worked for nearly two decades. She is actively involved with her local Boy Scouts chapter and was a working parent to three students who graduated from the school district.
Waters is running with a strong focus on positive collaboration and bridging divisiveness on the school board so that our school district leaders can be more accountable for their decisions and can more efficiently serve the community. If elected, she wants to support special education programs, invest in the physical and mental wellbeing of both students and staff, and close achievement gaps by making sure every student has the resources they need to thrive.
Incumbent Kari Williams is running for re-election on a platform that sometimes aligns with the more far-right members of the board. During the height of the coronavirus pandemic, she advocated to open our schools early, before it was safe to do so. She and fellow school board members Semi Bird and Audra Byrd all voted yes to remove masks from school. This led to a recall vote by Richland voters and three upheld counts from the Washington Supreme Court for not upholding their duty to state law, including violation of the Open Public Meetings Act. Byrd was even caught texting Williams that they had lost control of the "progressive agenda" in terms of literacy, health lessons, and more. Unsurprisingly, Williams also opposes comprehensive and accurate sex education for all students.
Katrina Waters is the clear candidate in this race for Richland School Board, Director District 4.Last updated: 2023-10-19Katrina Waters
Katrina Waters is challenging conservative incumbent Kari Williams for Richland School Board, Director District 4. Waters is a fellow at a local lab managed by the Department of Energy, where she has worked for nearly two decades.
Katrina Waters is challenging conservative incumbent Kari Williams for Richland School Board, Director District 4. Waters is a fellow at a local lab managed by the Department of Energy, where she has worked for nearly two decades. She is actively involved with her local Boy Scouts chapter and was a working parent to three students who graduated from the school district.
Waters is running with a strong focus on positive collaboration and bridging divisiveness on the school board so that our school district leaders can be more accountable for their decisions and can more efficiently serve the community. If elected, she wants to support special education programs, invest in the physical and mental wellbeing of both students and staff, and close achievement gaps by making sure every student has the resources they need to thrive.
Incumbent Kari Williams is running for re-election on a platform that sometimes aligns with the more far-right members of the board. During the height of the coronavirus pandemic, she advocated to open our schools early, before it was safe to do so. She and fellow school board members Semi Bird and Audra Byrd all voted yes to remove masks from school. This led to a recall vote by Richland voters and three upheld counts from the Washington Supreme Court for not upholding their duty to state law, including violation of the Open Public Meetings Act. Byrd was even caught texting Williams that they had lost control of the "progressive agenda" in terms of literacy, health lessons, and more. Unsurprisingly, Williams also opposes comprehensive and accurate sex education for all students.
Katrina Waters is the clear candidate in this race for Richland School Board, Director District 4.Katrina Waters
Katrina Waters is challenging conservative incumbent Kari Williams for Richland School Board, Director District 4. Waters is a fellow at a local lab managed by the Department of Energy, where she has worked for nearly two decades.
-
-
Katrina Waters is challenging conservative incumbent Kari Williams for Richland School Board, Director District 4. Waters is a fellow at a local lab managed by the Department of Energy, where she has worked for nearly two decades. She is actively involved with her local Boy Scouts chapter and was a working parent to three students who graduated from the school district.
Waters is running with a strong focus on positive collaboration and bridging divisiveness on the school board so that our school district leaders can be more accountable for their decisions and can more efficiently serve the community. If elected, she wants to support special education programs, invest in the physical and mental wellbeing of both students and staff, and close achievement gaps by making sure every student has the resources they need to thrive.
Incumbent Kari Williams is running for re-election on a platform that sometimes aligns with the more far-right members of the board. During the height of the coronavirus pandemic, she advocated to open our schools early, before it was safe to do so. She and fellow school board members Semi Bird and Audra Byrd all voted yes to remove masks from school. This led to a recall vote by Richland voters and three upheld counts from the Washington Supreme Court for not upholding their duty to state law, including violation of the Open Public Meetings Act. Byrd was even caught texting Williams that they had lost control of the "progressive agenda" in terms of literacy, health lessons, and more. Unsurprisingly, Williams also opposes comprehensive and accurate sex education for all students.
Katrina Waters is the clear candidate in this race for Richland School Board, Director District 4.Last updated: 2023-10-19
-
-
Incumbent Jill Oldson is running for re-election to the Richland School Board in Director District 5. Oldson currently serves as the board’s vice president and has served as a director since June 2018. She has spent nearly a decade working to support our school district including roles with the Washington School Directors Association, and she serves on the board of the Boys and Girls Club of Benton Franklin County.
In office, Oldson has been steadfast in her principles and led with a sincere desire to improve the school district. Last year, conservatives tried to oust her because of Oldson’s support for common-sense COVID safety measures like masks and virtual meetings. If re-elected, some of Oldson’s top priorities include supporting student mental health, investing in special education programs, and academic success for all students.
Gene Nemeth, a nuclear facility operations contractor, is challenging Oldson on an extremist platform endorsed by the local Republicans. He is associated with the far-right Moms for Liberty group who wants to install divisive and inaccurate conservative ideas in our schools. Our students deserve curriculums that represent science and history, not fringe political agendas, in order to be best prepared for the future.
Though she is not a progressive, Jill Oldson is the clear choice in this race for Richland School Board, Director District 5.
Last updated: 2023-10-13Jill Oldson
Incumbent Jill Oldson is running for re-election to the Richland School Board in Director District 5. Oldson currently serves as the board’s vice president and has served as a director since June 2018.
Incumbent Jill Oldson is running for re-election to the Richland School Board in Director District 5. Oldson currently serves as the board’s vice president and has served as a director since June 2018. She has spent nearly a decade working to support our school district including roles with the Washington School Directors Association, and she serves on the board of the Boys and Girls Club of Benton Franklin County.
In office, Oldson has been steadfast in her principles and led with a sincere desire to improve the school district. Last year, conservatives tried to oust her because of Oldson’s support for common-sense COVID safety measures like masks and virtual meetings. If re-elected, some of Oldson’s top priorities include supporting student mental health, investing in special education programs, and academic success for all students.
Gene Nemeth, a nuclear facility operations contractor, is challenging Oldson on an extremist platform endorsed by the local Republicans. He is associated with the far-right Moms for Liberty group who wants to install divisive and inaccurate conservative ideas in our schools. Our students deserve curriculums that represent science and history, not fringe political agendas, in order to be best prepared for the future.
Though she is not a progressive, Jill Oldson is the clear choice in this race for Richland School Board, Director District 5.
Jill Oldson
Incumbent Jill Oldson is running for re-election to the Richland School Board in Director District 5. Oldson currently serves as the board’s vice president and has served as a director since June 2018.
-
-
Incumbent Jill Oldson is running for re-election to the Richland School Board in Director District 5. Oldson currently serves as the board’s vice president and has served as a director since June 2018. She has spent nearly a decade working to support our school district including roles with the Washington School Directors Association, and she serves on the board of the Boys and Girls Club of Benton Franklin County.
In office, Oldson has been steadfast in her principles and led with a sincere desire to improve the school district. Last year, conservatives tried to oust her because of Oldson’s support for common-sense COVID safety measures like masks and virtual meetings. If re-elected, some of Oldson’s top priorities include supporting student mental health, investing in special education programs, and academic success for all students.
Gene Nemeth, a nuclear facility operations contractor, is challenging Oldson on an extremist platform endorsed by the local Republicans. He is associated with the far-right Moms for Liberty group who wants to install divisive and inaccurate conservative ideas in our schools. Our students deserve curriculums that represent science and history, not fringe political agendas, in order to be best prepared for the future.
Though she is not a progressive, Jill Oldson is the clear choice in this race for Richland School Board, Director District 5.
Last updated: 2023-10-13
-
Express Recommendation -
Amber Baker is a first-time candidate running for Ridgefield School Board, Director District 2. Baker owns and manages her own farm, and works in the community in consulting and agriculture education. She is a working mother of two future students of the district. Baker also serves the community as a youth soccer coach, Ridgefield Multicultural Festival volunteer, and donor of freshly grown food to the local food bank.
If elected, Baker wants to engage all community voices to create a welcoming school district where students of all backgrounds feel a sense of belonging. Though she lacks a detailed platform, Baker has been endorsed by a strong progressive leaders and our trusted partners.
Also in this race is Rob Peterson, who works for a health care company in data management. Peterson is involved in youth coaching and Junior Achievement volunteering. Like Baker, he is running on a vague platform that emphasizes transparent leadership and listening to all stakeholders.
We recommend Amber Baker for Ridgefield School Board, Director District 2 because of her community leadership work and her support in this race.
Last updated: 2023-11-01Amber Baker
Amber Baker is a first-time candidate running for Ridgefield School Board, Director District 2. Baker owns and manages her own farm, and works in the community in consulting and agriculture education. She is a working mother of two future students of the district.
Amber Baker is a first-time candidate running for Ridgefield School Board, Director District 2. Baker owns and manages her own farm, and works in the community in consulting and agriculture education. She is a working mother of two future students of the district. Baker also serves the community as a youth soccer coach, Ridgefield Multicultural Festival volunteer, and donor of freshly grown food to the local food bank.
If elected, Baker wants to engage all community voices to create a welcoming school district where students of all backgrounds feel a sense of belonging. Though she lacks a detailed platform, Baker has been endorsed by a strong progressive leaders and our trusted partners.
Also in this race is Rob Peterson, who works for a health care company in data management. Peterson is involved in youth coaching and Junior Achievement volunteering. Like Baker, he is running on a vague platform that emphasizes transparent leadership and listening to all stakeholders.
We recommend Amber Baker for Ridgefield School Board, Director District 2 because of her community leadership work and her support in this race.
Amber Baker
Amber Baker is a first-time candidate running for Ridgefield School Board, Director District 2. Baker owns and manages her own farm, and works in the community in consulting and agriculture education. She is a working mother of two future students of the district.
-
Express Recommendation
-
Amber Baker is a first-time candidate running for Ridgefield School Board, Director District 2. Baker owns and manages her own farm, and works in the community in consulting and agriculture education. She is a working mother of two future students of the district. Baker also serves the community as a youth soccer coach, Ridgefield Multicultural Festival volunteer, and donor of freshly grown food to the local food bank.
If elected, Baker wants to engage all community voices to create a welcoming school district where students of all backgrounds feel a sense of belonging. Though she lacks a detailed platform, Baker has been endorsed by a strong progressive leaders and our trusted partners.
Also in this race is Rob Peterson, who works for a health care company in data management. Peterson is involved in youth coaching and Junior Achievement volunteering. Like Baker, he is running on a vague platform that emphasizes transparent leadership and listening to all stakeholders.
We recommend Amber Baker for Ridgefield School Board, Director District 2 because of her community leadership work and her support in this race.
Last updated: 2023-11-01
There are many concerning issues in Seattle Public Schools that need to be addressed in the years to come. There's a looming budget crisis, partially fueled by the COVID recession and increasing costs. With a fatal shooting at Ingraham High School, declining enrollment, and a new education model to implement, Seattle voters have an opportunity to make a difference with their choice for school board director this year.
In times such as these, the school board would benefit from some stability and institutional knowledge. However, the unpaid and high-pressure position of school board director in Seattle has had high turnover, with most incumbents staying only one term. As of right now, the longest-serving incumbents on the ballot have been in office for four years.
No matter who is elected this year in school board positions, the districts are in discomfort with change as they reckon with the budget, bringing special education and highly capable students into general education classrooms, and continuing work on equity.
Voters have a clear but difficult choice in District 1 between Liza Rankin, the incumbent, and Debbie Carlsen. Please read the full comparison below to find the candidate who best fits your values and priorities for Seattle schools.
-
-
Challenging Rankin this year is Debbie Carlsen, a consultant, former NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Washington Interim Policy Director, and co-founder and executive director of LGTBQ Allyship. She serves as advocacy chair of both the Olympic Hills Elementary PTA board and the 46th Democrats as a Co-Policy & Advocacy Chair, as well as fundraising chair for the National Women's Political Caucus.
As a nonbinary person with a diverse family, Carlsen wants schools to be welcoming to all, especially in a climate of conservatives passing anti-LGTBQ laws. Carlsen lists transparency, family engagement, and representation in schools as her top three policy priorities. In her interview with the 36th Legislative District Democrats, she also emphasized robust special education and regaining the confidence of Seattle parents and families.
On the issue of the budget, Carlsen was hesitant to say that closures were inevitable. Closures in the past have been disastrous, she said, and more community meetings would need to happen in District 1 before she made a decision. She proposed a 15 percent cut to staff in the central office, though it seems very unlikely that this alone would cover a budget gap of this magnitude.
On school safety, Carlsen and Rankin were somewhat similar. Both agreed that students had been clear that more surveillance and policing in schools was not the way forward, and both felt that gun violence education and community lobbying for better gun violence legislation were needed. Carlsen felt that directors could and must do more to meet with community members and parents, especially right after the tragedy at Ingraham.
If voters are looking for an experienced advocate hoping to bring change and improve transparency for parents and students, Carlsen could be a good choice.Last updated: 2023-10-23Debbie Carlsen
Challenging Rankin this year is Debbie Carlsen, a consultant, former NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Washington Interim Policy Director, and co-founder and executive director of LGTBQ Allyship.
Challenging Rankin this year is Debbie Carlsen, a consultant, former NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Washington Interim Policy Director, and co-founder and executive director of LGTBQ Allyship. She serves as advocacy chair of both the Olympic Hills Elementary PTA board and the 46th Democrats as a Co-Policy & Advocacy Chair, as well as fundraising chair for the National Women's Political Caucus.
As a nonbinary person with a diverse family, Carlsen wants schools to be welcoming to all, especially in a climate of conservatives passing anti-LGTBQ laws. Carlsen lists transparency, family engagement, and representation in schools as her top three policy priorities. In her interview with the 36th Legislative District Democrats, she also emphasized robust special education and regaining the confidence of Seattle parents and families.
On the issue of the budget, Carlsen was hesitant to say that closures were inevitable. Closures in the past have been disastrous, she said, and more community meetings would need to happen in District 1 before she made a decision. She proposed a 15 percent cut to staff in the central office, though it seems very unlikely that this alone would cover a budget gap of this magnitude.
On school safety, Carlsen and Rankin were somewhat similar. Both agreed that students had been clear that more surveillance and policing in schools was not the way forward, and both felt that gun violence education and community lobbying for better gun violence legislation were needed. Carlsen felt that directors could and must do more to meet with community members and parents, especially right after the tragedy at Ingraham.
If voters are looking for an experienced advocate hoping to bring change and improve transparency for parents and students, Carlsen could be a good choice.Debbie Carlsen
Challenging Rankin this year is Debbie Carlsen, a consultant, former NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Washington Interim Policy Director, and co-founder and executive director of LGTBQ Allyship.
-
-
Challenging Rankin this year is Debbie Carlsen, a consultant, former NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Washington Interim Policy Director, and co-founder and executive director of LGTBQ Allyship. She serves as advocacy chair of both the Olympic Hills Elementary PTA board and the 46th Democrats as a Co-Policy & Advocacy Chair, as well as fundraising chair for the National Women's Political Caucus.
As a nonbinary person with a diverse family, Carlsen wants schools to be welcoming to all, especially in a climate of conservatives passing anti-LGTBQ laws. Carlsen lists transparency, family engagement, and representation in schools as her top three policy priorities. In her interview with the 36th Legislative District Democrats, she also emphasized robust special education and regaining the confidence of Seattle parents and families.
On the issue of the budget, Carlsen was hesitant to say that closures were inevitable. Closures in the past have been disastrous, she said, and more community meetings would need to happen in District 1 before she made a decision. She proposed a 15 percent cut to staff in the central office, though it seems very unlikely that this alone would cover a budget gap of this magnitude.
On school safety, Carlsen and Rankin were somewhat similar. Both agreed that students had been clear that more surveillance and policing in schools was not the way forward, and both felt that gun violence education and community lobbying for better gun violence legislation were needed. Carlsen felt that directors could and must do more to meet with community members and parents, especially right after the tragedy at Ingraham.
If voters are looking for an experienced advocate hoping to bring change and improve transparency for parents and students, Carlsen could be a good choice.Last updated: 2023-10-23
-
-
Incumbent Liza Rankin was elected in 2019 and took office shortly before the chaos of the pandemic hit our schools. Prior to her election, Rankin was a longtime community organizer and artist who had served on the PTA of her children's school as well as on the board of the Seattle Council PTSA and the advisory board at Sand Point Arts and Cultural Exchange at Magnuson Park, among other leadership roles. Rankin began her school activism by bringing food to teachers walking picket lines during the 2015 strike. She ran on a vision to support the school board's new Strategic Plan and ensure that every child has equitable access and opportunity to learn.
In our extensive interview with Rankin, she reiterated that the board had made excellent progress on those issues, including reducing disproportionate discipline against boys and students of color, banning isolation practices, and limiting restraints. She noted that progress had been made on inclusionary practices for students with disabilities, moving the city's public schools from the bottom quartile to the bottom half nationwide. Rankin is running again to continue this work, but also to address head-on the issues facing students and schools.
We found Rankin to be clear-eyed on the issue of the budget. She told us without equivocation that any one-time fixes have run out and expenditures are higher than state revenue provides. Rankin told us that in the last 8 years, 10 schools had opened, and a mismatch of schools open and students who actually attend mean the school closures are likely one of the ways to close the budget gap. For example, she stated that 15 elementary schools have fewer than 250 students and the district could save money on administration and provide better opportunities for students if they were added to larger schools.
Rankin noted that an upgrade to school lock security would be complete in Seattle Public Schools soon, and outside of that, Carlsen and Rankin were somewhat similar on school safety.
Rankin is a good choice if you're looking for someone with institutional knowledge to serve during a challenging time for our schools.Last updated: 2023-10-19Liza Rankin
Incumbent Liza Rankin was elected in 2019 and took office shortly before the chaos of the pandemic hit our schools.
Incumbent Liza Rankin was elected in 2019 and took office shortly before the chaos of the pandemic hit our schools. Prior to her election, Rankin was a longtime community organizer and artist who had served on the PTA of her children's school as well as on the board of the Seattle Council PTSA and the advisory board at Sand Point Arts and Cultural Exchange at Magnuson Park, among other leadership roles. Rankin began her school activism by bringing food to teachers walking picket lines during the 2015 strike. She ran on a vision to support the school board's new Strategic Plan and ensure that every child has equitable access and opportunity to learn.
In our extensive interview with Rankin, she reiterated that the board had made excellent progress on those issues, including reducing disproportionate discipline against boys and students of color, banning isolation practices, and limiting restraints. She noted that progress had been made on inclusionary practices for students with disabilities, moving the city's public schools from the bottom quartile to the bottom half nationwide. Rankin is running again to continue this work, but also to address head-on the issues facing students and schools.
We found Rankin to be clear-eyed on the issue of the budget. She told us without equivocation that any one-time fixes have run out and expenditures are higher than state revenue provides. Rankin told us that in the last 8 years, 10 schools had opened, and a mismatch of schools open and students who actually attend mean the school closures are likely one of the ways to close the budget gap. For example, she stated that 15 elementary schools have fewer than 250 students and the district could save money on administration and provide better opportunities for students if they were added to larger schools.
Rankin noted that an upgrade to school lock security would be complete in Seattle Public Schools soon, and outside of that, Carlsen and Rankin were somewhat similar on school safety.
Rankin is a good choice if you're looking for someone with institutional knowledge to serve during a challenging time for our schools.Liza Rankin
Incumbent Liza Rankin was elected in 2019 and took office shortly before the chaos of the pandemic hit our schools.
-
-
Incumbent Liza Rankin was elected in 2019 and took office shortly before the chaos of the pandemic hit our schools. Prior to her election, Rankin was a longtime community organizer and artist who had served on the PTA of her children's school as well as on the board of the Seattle Council PTSA and the advisory board at Sand Point Arts and Cultural Exchange at Magnuson Park, among other leadership roles. Rankin began her school activism by bringing food to teachers walking picket lines during the 2015 strike. She ran on a vision to support the school board's new Strategic Plan and ensure that every child has equitable access and opportunity to learn.
In our extensive interview with Rankin, she reiterated that the board had made excellent progress on those issues, including reducing disproportionate discipline against boys and students of color, banning isolation practices, and limiting restraints. She noted that progress had been made on inclusionary practices for students with disabilities, moving the city's public schools from the bottom quartile to the bottom half nationwide. Rankin is running again to continue this work, but also to address head-on the issues facing students and schools.
We found Rankin to be clear-eyed on the issue of the budget. She told us without equivocation that any one-time fixes have run out and expenditures are higher than state revenue provides. Rankin told us that in the last 8 years, 10 schools had opened, and a mismatch of schools open and students who actually attend mean the school closures are likely one of the ways to close the budget gap. For example, she stated that 15 elementary schools have fewer than 250 students and the district could save money on administration and provide better opportunities for students if they were added to larger schools.
Rankin noted that an upgrade to school lock security would be complete in Seattle Public Schools soon, and outside of that, Carlsen and Rankin were somewhat similar on school safety.
Rankin is a good choice if you're looking for someone with institutional knowledge to serve during a challenging time for our schools.Last updated: 2023-10-19
-
-
Lisa Rivera Smith is running for her second term on the Seattle School Board Director in District 2. Rivera Smith has served as president and vice president of communications in Hamilton International Middle School PTSA, as founder and co-president of the Lincoln High School PTSA, and as vice chair of the 46th District Democrats.
In our interview with Rivera Smith, she spoke of the challenges of the last four years, including the pandemic, a budget crisis, and the search for a new superintendent. While there's concern that Rivera Smith isn't actively seeking enough changes to district policy as schools lose more students, she believes that she can put all her experience to work if re-elected by increasing transparency into the inner workings of the district for families and students.
She points to her Just Say Why newsletters as one way that she's personally communicated decisions around the budget to families. She emphasized that the board doesn't create the budget, they just approve it, and that if school closures do happen, she wants the district to focus on not losing properties and reducing any impacts to neighborhoods. School closures can be traumatic for neighborhoods, but she states that the need to consolidate resources is high.
On student mental health and school safety, Rivera Smith says the focus needs to be on making partnerships with outside organizations through referrals. She points to the safety panel, training for school staff, and the superintendent's safety audit, the results of which are still pending, as ways the district has made steps forward to ensure student safety.
Given the amount of turnover on the Seattle School Board in recent years, Rivera Smith wants to provide consistency and experience. She is endorsed by several Democratic organizations as well as the Stranger and MLK Labor. We recommend her in this race because of her stronger endorsements.Last updated: 2023-10-19Lisa Rivera Smith
Lisa Rivera Smith is running for her second term on the Seattle School Board Director in District 2.
Lisa Rivera Smith is running for her second term on the Seattle School Board Director in District 2. Rivera Smith has served as president and vice president of communications in Hamilton International Middle School PTSA, as founder and co-president of the Lincoln High School PTSA, and as vice chair of the 46th District Democrats.
In our interview with Rivera Smith, she spoke of the challenges of the last four years, including the pandemic, a budget crisis, and the search for a new superintendent. While there's concern that Rivera Smith isn't actively seeking enough changes to district policy as schools lose more students, she believes that she can put all her experience to work if re-elected by increasing transparency into the inner workings of the district for families and students.
She points to her Just Say Why newsletters as one way that she's personally communicated decisions around the budget to families. She emphasized that the board doesn't create the budget, they just approve it, and that if school closures do happen, she wants the district to focus on not losing properties and reducing any impacts to neighborhoods. School closures can be traumatic for neighborhoods, but she states that the need to consolidate resources is high.
On student mental health and school safety, Rivera Smith says the focus needs to be on making partnerships with outside organizations through referrals. She points to the safety panel, training for school staff, and the superintendent's safety audit, the results of which are still pending, as ways the district has made steps forward to ensure student safety.
Given the amount of turnover on the Seattle School Board in recent years, Rivera Smith wants to provide consistency and experience. She is endorsed by several Democratic organizations as well as the Stranger and MLK Labor. We recommend her in this race because of her stronger endorsements.Lisa Rivera Smith
Lisa Rivera Smith is running for her second term on the Seattle School Board Director in District 2.
-
-
Lisa Rivera Smith is running for her second term on the Seattle School Board Director in District 2. Rivera Smith has served as president and vice president of communications in Hamilton International Middle School PTSA, as founder and co-president of the Lincoln High School PTSA, and as vice chair of the 46th District Democrats.
In our interview with Rivera Smith, she spoke of the challenges of the last four years, including the pandemic, a budget crisis, and the search for a new superintendent. While there's concern that Rivera Smith isn't actively seeking enough changes to district policy as schools lose more students, she believes that she can put all her experience to work if re-elected by increasing transparency into the inner workings of the district for families and students.
She points to her Just Say Why newsletters as one way that she's personally communicated decisions around the budget to families. She emphasized that the board doesn't create the budget, they just approve it, and that if school closures do happen, she wants the district to focus on not losing properties and reducing any impacts to neighborhoods. School closures can be traumatic for neighborhoods, but she states that the need to consolidate resources is high.
On student mental health and school safety, Rivera Smith says the focus needs to be on making partnerships with outside organizations through referrals. She points to the safety panel, training for school staff, and the superintendent's safety audit, the results of which are still pending, as ways the district has made steps forward to ensure student safety.
Given the amount of turnover on the Seattle School Board in recent years, Rivera Smith wants to provide consistency and experience. She is endorsed by several Democratic organizations as well as the Stranger and MLK Labor. We recommend her in this race because of her stronger endorsements.Last updated: 2023-10-19
-
-
Christina Posten is challenging incumbent Lisa Rivera Smith to represent District 2 on the Seattle School Board. A former principal of Whitman Middle School and high school science teacher who is currently taking time off for her first child, Posten says that she was inspired to run to repair Seattle Public Schools.
Posten's priorities for the board center around transparency, community relationships, and school safety. She wants to see outside auditing of how money is being spent, more involvement from schools and the community in the district's budget decisions, and informed decision-making about possible school closures. Posten says the first step to closing the $100 million dollar budget gap is to trim salaries and staff in the district's central office, though this likely would not cover anywhere close to the gap.
When it comes to safety, Posten wants to fund more secure schools with chain link fences. Posten is highly affected by the shooting at Ingraham High, which was perpetrated by a former student at her school. She says it was too easy for the student to re-enroll in another school after threats of violence, and would advocate for schools to implement better plans and safety support systems for students who need them.
Posten is also supportive of providing more services to meet families' basic needs like child care and transportation and would prioritize equalizing the resources between neighborhoods across Seattle.
Posten has some progressive priorities, but as of October 17 she has reported raising no money for her campaign and her website lacks substantial details on how she would make concrete changes at Seattle Public Schools.Last updated: 2023-10-18Christina Posten
Christina Posten is challenging incumbent Lisa Rivera Smith to represent District 2 on the Seattle School Board.
Christina Posten is challenging incumbent Lisa Rivera Smith to represent District 2 on the Seattle School Board. A former principal of Whitman Middle School and high school science teacher who is currently taking time off for her first child, Posten says that she was inspired to run to repair Seattle Public Schools.
Posten's priorities for the board center around transparency, community relationships, and school safety. She wants to see outside auditing of how money is being spent, more involvement from schools and the community in the district's budget decisions, and informed decision-making about possible school closures. Posten says the first step to closing the $100 million dollar budget gap is to trim salaries and staff in the district's central office, though this likely would not cover anywhere close to the gap.
When it comes to safety, Posten wants to fund more secure schools with chain link fences. Posten is highly affected by the shooting at Ingraham High, which was perpetrated by a former student at her school. She says it was too easy for the student to re-enroll in another school after threats of violence, and would advocate for schools to implement better plans and safety support systems for students who need them.
Posten is also supportive of providing more services to meet families' basic needs like child care and transportation and would prioritize equalizing the resources between neighborhoods across Seattle.
Posten has some progressive priorities, but as of October 17 she has reported raising no money for her campaign and her website lacks substantial details on how she would make concrete changes at Seattle Public Schools.Christina Posten
Christina Posten is challenging incumbent Lisa Rivera Smith to represent District 2 on the Seattle School Board.
-
-
Christina Posten is challenging incumbent Lisa Rivera Smith to represent District 2 on the Seattle School Board. A former principal of Whitman Middle School and high school science teacher who is currently taking time off for her first child, Posten says that she was inspired to run to repair Seattle Public Schools.
Posten's priorities for the board center around transparency, community relationships, and school safety. She wants to see outside auditing of how money is being spent, more involvement from schools and the community in the district's budget decisions, and informed decision-making about possible school closures. Posten says the first step to closing the $100 million dollar budget gap is to trim salaries and staff in the district's central office, though this likely would not cover anywhere close to the gap.
When it comes to safety, Posten wants to fund more secure schools with chain link fences. Posten is highly affected by the shooting at Ingraham High, which was perpetrated by a former student at her school. She says it was too easy for the student to re-enroll in another school after threats of violence, and would advocate for schools to implement better plans and safety support systems for students who need them.
Posten is also supportive of providing more services to meet families' basic needs like child care and transportation and would prioritize equalizing the resources between neighborhoods across Seattle.
Posten has some progressive priorities, but as of October 17 she has reported raising no money for her campaign and her website lacks substantial details on how she would make concrete changes at Seattle Public Schools.Last updated: 2023-10-18
There are two progressive candidates in this race. We recommend Evan Briggs because of her forward-looking vision and substantive ideas for how to improve Seattle Public Schools.
-
-
A parent of three Seattle Public Schools kids, independent documentary filmmaker Evan Briggs says she's running to bring meaningful change and big-picture thinking as a director for District 3 on the Seattle School Board. She has served as chair of the parent-teacher organization at her children’s elementary school and is currently the Sand Point Elementary PTA representative on the Magnuson Park Advisory Committee.
When it comes to declining enrollment in Seattle Public Schools, Briggs goes further than her opponent Gitenstein on potential solutions. Both agree that the district needs to identify why families are choosing to homeschool or go to private schools. Briggs wants to see more hybrid options of homeschooling and public schools to attract families to the district, and also believes that schools should partner with community organizations to advocate for more affordable housing, which would keep families from being priced out by rising housing and rent costs.
Briggs wants to see more mental health professionals in schools as well as stronger relationships with service organizations in the community. She also states that the board should have clearer communication with parents and budget transparency for families. On the budget, Briggs has stated that she will look to pare down administrative and consulting contracts that don't affect student performance. Briggs has earned impressive endorsements from education leaders and progressive organizations. We recommend Briggs for the Seattle School Board from District 3.
Last updated: 2023-10-24Evan Briggs
A parent of three Seattle Public Schools kids, independent documentary filmmaker Evan Briggs says she's running to bring meaningful change and big-picture thinking as a director for District 3 on the Seattle School Board.
A parent of three Seattle Public Schools kids, independent documentary filmmaker Evan Briggs says she's running to bring meaningful change and big-picture thinking as a director for District 3 on the Seattle School Board. She has served as chair of the parent-teacher organization at her children’s elementary school and is currently the Sand Point Elementary PTA representative on the Magnuson Park Advisory Committee.
When it comes to declining enrollment in Seattle Public Schools, Briggs goes further than her opponent Gitenstein on potential solutions. Both agree that the district needs to identify why families are choosing to homeschool or go to private schools. Briggs wants to see more hybrid options of homeschooling and public schools to attract families to the district, and also believes that schools should partner with community organizations to advocate for more affordable housing, which would keep families from being priced out by rising housing and rent costs.
Briggs wants to see more mental health professionals in schools as well as stronger relationships with service organizations in the community. She also states that the board should have clearer communication with parents and budget transparency for families. On the budget, Briggs has stated that she will look to pare down administrative and consulting contracts that don't affect student performance. Briggs has earned impressive endorsements from education leaders and progressive organizations. We recommend Briggs for the Seattle School Board from District 3.
Evan Briggs
A parent of three Seattle Public Schools kids, independent documentary filmmaker Evan Briggs says she's running to bring meaningful change and big-picture thinking as a director for District 3 on the Seattle School Board.
-
-
A parent of three Seattle Public Schools kids, independent documentary filmmaker Evan Briggs says she's running to bring meaningful change and big-picture thinking as a director for District 3 on the Seattle School Board. She has served as chair of the parent-teacher organization at her children’s elementary school and is currently the Sand Point Elementary PTA representative on the Magnuson Park Advisory Committee.
When it comes to declining enrollment in Seattle Public Schools, Briggs goes further than her opponent Gitenstein on potential solutions. Both agree that the district needs to identify why families are choosing to homeschool or go to private schools. Briggs wants to see more hybrid options of homeschooling and public schools to attract families to the district, and also believes that schools should partner with community organizations to advocate for more affordable housing, which would keep families from being priced out by rising housing and rent costs.
Briggs wants to see more mental health professionals in schools as well as stronger relationships with service organizations in the community. She also states that the board should have clearer communication with parents and budget transparency for families. On the budget, Briggs has stated that she will look to pare down administrative and consulting contracts that don't affect student performance. Briggs has earned impressive endorsements from education leaders and progressive organizations. We recommend Briggs for the Seattle School Board from District 3.
Last updated: 2023-10-24
-
-
Google manager and parent of two Ben Gitenstein is also running for Seattle School Board Director in District 3. He describes himself as a frustrated progressive who doesn't have all the answers but is willing to ask hard questions. His website details his concerns with Seattle Public Schools and its board, including budgets and the incidence of gun violence at Ingraham High that left one student dead. Unfortunately, he does not yet offer specific solutions to these issues as of mid-October other than bringing in new voices, which will naturally happen as there are two retiring incumbents this year.
Gitenstein is the former executive director of the Washington Low Income Housing Alliance in the 2000s and has volunteered for school plays and fundraisers. Though he does not appear to be actively involved in Seattle school leadership positions like the PTA, he has worked in education advocacy in New York to bring more resources to community centers. He states that his 15 years as a product manager at startups and tech firms could be put to use in reorganizing the budget.
Gitenstein's recommendation by The Seattle Times appears to come from what the editorial board describes as his urgency on school issues, "his appetite for real talk," and his distance from anyone who currently works with Seattle Public Schools. Based on local interviews, Gitenstein wants the board to provide more fiscal oversight and address the enrollment drop. He also wants to see increased public accountability and debate at board meetings by eliminating the "intro and action" parts of the agenda.
This year in June, the school board moved to Student Outcome Focused Governance (SOFG). Some critics, including Gitenstein, feel it has reduced public oversight and power over the board. In a June interview with The Stranger, Gitenstein did not point out a specific instance in which SOFG had taken away public participation, but he believes that the change gives the board less opportunity for public discussion and policy conversations.
Gitenstein's urgency to change the direction of the board on community transparency, funding issues, and more has earned him the endorsements of four local Democratic organizations.
Last updated: 2023-11-03Ben Gitenstein
Google manager and parent of two Ben Gitenstein is also running for Seattle School Board Director in District 3. He describes himself as a frustrated progressive who doesn't have all the answers but is willing to ask hard questions.
Google manager and parent of two Ben Gitenstein is also running for Seattle School Board Director in District 3. He describes himself as a frustrated progressive who doesn't have all the answers but is willing to ask hard questions. His website details his concerns with Seattle Public Schools and its board, including budgets and the incidence of gun violence at Ingraham High that left one student dead. Unfortunately, he does not yet offer specific solutions to these issues as of mid-October other than bringing in new voices, which will naturally happen as there are two retiring incumbents this year.
Gitenstein is the former executive director of the Washington Low Income Housing Alliance in the 2000s and has volunteered for school plays and fundraisers. Though he does not appear to be actively involved in Seattle school leadership positions like the PTA, he has worked in education advocacy in New York to bring more resources to community centers. He states that his 15 years as a product manager at startups and tech firms could be put to use in reorganizing the budget.
Gitenstein's recommendation by The Seattle Times appears to come from what the editorial board describes as his urgency on school issues, "his appetite for real talk," and his distance from anyone who currently works with Seattle Public Schools. Based on local interviews, Gitenstein wants the board to provide more fiscal oversight and address the enrollment drop. He also wants to see increased public accountability and debate at board meetings by eliminating the "intro and action" parts of the agenda.
This year in June, the school board moved to Student Outcome Focused Governance (SOFG). Some critics, including Gitenstein, feel it has reduced public oversight and power over the board. In a June interview with The Stranger, Gitenstein did not point out a specific instance in which SOFG had taken away public participation, but he believes that the change gives the board less opportunity for public discussion and policy conversations.
Gitenstein's urgency to change the direction of the board on community transparency, funding issues, and more has earned him the endorsements of four local Democratic organizations.
Ben Gitenstein
Google manager and parent of two Ben Gitenstein is also running for Seattle School Board Director in District 3. He describes himself as a frustrated progressive who doesn't have all the answers but is willing to ask hard questions.
-
-
Google manager and parent of two Ben Gitenstein is also running for Seattle School Board Director in District 3. He describes himself as a frustrated progressive who doesn't have all the answers but is willing to ask hard questions. His website details his concerns with Seattle Public Schools and its board, including budgets and the incidence of gun violence at Ingraham High that left one student dead. Unfortunately, he does not yet offer specific solutions to these issues as of mid-October other than bringing in new voices, which will naturally happen as there are two retiring incumbents this year.
Gitenstein is the former executive director of the Washington Low Income Housing Alliance in the 2000s and has volunteered for school plays and fundraisers. Though he does not appear to be actively involved in Seattle school leadership positions like the PTA, he has worked in education advocacy in New York to bring more resources to community centers. He states that his 15 years as a product manager at startups and tech firms could be put to use in reorganizing the budget.
Gitenstein's recommendation by The Seattle Times appears to come from what the editorial board describes as his urgency on school issues, "his appetite for real talk," and his distance from anyone who currently works with Seattle Public Schools. Based on local interviews, Gitenstein wants the board to provide more fiscal oversight and address the enrollment drop. He also wants to see increased public accountability and debate at board meetings by eliminating the "intro and action" parts of the agenda.
This year in June, the school board moved to Student Outcome Focused Governance (SOFG). Some critics, including Gitenstein, feel it has reduced public oversight and power over the board. In a June interview with The Stranger, Gitenstein did not point out a specific instance in which SOFG had taken away public participation, but he believes that the change gives the board less opportunity for public discussion and policy conversations.
Gitenstein's urgency to change the direction of the board on community transparency, funding issues, and more has earned him the endorsements of four local Democratic organizations.
Last updated: 2023-11-03
-
-
Gina Topp is running for the open seat vacated by incumbent Leslie Harris, who isn't running for re-election. She is the chief legal counsel and policy advisor to King County Executive Dow Constantine and served on the boards of the 34th Legislative District Democrats and the Seattle Sports Complex Foundation.
If elected, Topp aims to cultivate a safe and welcoming environment for all students, empower educators, and engage parents. In her interview with The Seattle Times, Topp stated that her plan for the budget crisis is to advocate for more money at the Legislature - an idea that incumbent Liza Rankin has said was unlikely to succeed because of the recent increase in funding already coming from the state. Despite this, we believe that Topp has the strongest experience and most detailed platform in the race.
Topp's opponent is Maryanne Wood, who does not appear to have extensive education advocacy experience. Wood states that her childhood on a dairy farm made her value hard work, and she has six grandchildren in the district. Wood's top message is "no to school closures, and she also says that she will "dial back the mega schools that are already planned at Alki, Rogers, and Montlake."
Topp's experience and progressive endorsements make her the best choice in District 1 for Seattle School Board Director.
Last updated: 2023-10-19Gina Topp
Gina Topp is running for the open seat vacated by incumbent Leslie Harris, who isn't running for re-election.
Gina Topp is running for the open seat vacated by incumbent Leslie Harris, who isn't running for re-election. She is the chief legal counsel and policy advisor to King County Executive Dow Constantine and served on the boards of the 34th Legislative District Democrats and the Seattle Sports Complex Foundation.
If elected, Topp aims to cultivate a safe and welcoming environment for all students, empower educators, and engage parents. In her interview with The Seattle Times, Topp stated that her plan for the budget crisis is to advocate for more money at the Legislature - an idea that incumbent Liza Rankin has said was unlikely to succeed because of the recent increase in funding already coming from the state. Despite this, we believe that Topp has the strongest experience and most detailed platform in the race.
Topp's opponent is Maryanne Wood, who does not appear to have extensive education advocacy experience. Wood states that her childhood on a dairy farm made her value hard work, and she has six grandchildren in the district. Wood's top message is "no to school closures, and she also says that she will "dial back the mega schools that are already planned at Alki, Rogers, and Montlake."
Topp's experience and progressive endorsements make her the best choice in District 1 for Seattle School Board Director.
Gina Topp
Gina Topp is running for the open seat vacated by incumbent Leslie Harris, who isn't running for re-election.
-
-
Gina Topp is running for the open seat vacated by incumbent Leslie Harris, who isn't running for re-election. She is the chief legal counsel and policy advisor to King County Executive Dow Constantine and served on the boards of the 34th Legislative District Democrats and the Seattle Sports Complex Foundation.
If elected, Topp aims to cultivate a safe and welcoming environment for all students, empower educators, and engage parents. In her interview with The Seattle Times, Topp stated that her plan for the budget crisis is to advocate for more money at the Legislature - an idea that incumbent Liza Rankin has said was unlikely to succeed because of the recent increase in funding already coming from the state. Despite this, we believe that Topp has the strongest experience and most detailed platform in the race.
Topp's opponent is Maryanne Wood, who does not appear to have extensive education advocacy experience. Wood states that her childhood on a dairy farm made her value hard work, and she has six grandchildren in the district. Wood's top message is "no to school closures, and she also says that she will "dial back the mega schools that are already planned at Alki, Rogers, and Montlake."
Topp's experience and progressive endorsements make her the best choice in District 1 for Seattle School Board Director.
Last updated: 2023-10-19
-
-
Incumbent director Christina Jepperson is running for another term in Sedro-Wooley Valley School Board, Director District 2. Jepperson has served on the school board for a decade and has spent her professional career as a nurse. She also serves as an active volunteer with the school district.
In office, Jepperson has funded career and technical education programs and worked with the community to create internship and apprenticeship opportunities that help students enter local industries and the broader job market. Now, she wants to utilize her knowledge of the board in order to address the most pressing issues facing the district. Jepperson is running on an informed and optimistic platform to invest in school infrastructure such as new heating systems and sewer repairs, AP class expansion, volunteer network activation, and funding for the Good Beginnings Preschool and transitional kindergarten classes.
Extremist Lindy Mullen Doyle is challenging Jepperson on a far-right campaign. Doyle is an adjunct college professor and school volunteer. She is running to restrict funding for student programs and install misinformation and far-right ideas in Sedro-Wooley Valley curriculums.
Jepperson is not a progressive, but she is the best choice in this race for Sedro-Wooley Valley School Board, Director District 2.
Last updated: 2023-11-01Christina Jepperson
Incumbent director Christina Jepperson is running for another term in Sedro-Wooley Valley School Board, Director District 2. Jepperson has served on the school board for a decade and has spent her professional career as a nurse. She also serves as an active volunteer with the school district.
Incumbent director Christina Jepperson is running for another term in Sedro-Wooley Valley School Board, Director District 2. Jepperson has served on the school board for a decade and has spent her professional career as a nurse. She also serves as an active volunteer with the school district.
In office, Jepperson has funded career and technical education programs and worked with the community to create internship and apprenticeship opportunities that help students enter local industries and the broader job market. Now, she wants to utilize her knowledge of the board in order to address the most pressing issues facing the district. Jepperson is running on an informed and optimistic platform to invest in school infrastructure such as new heating systems and sewer repairs, AP class expansion, volunteer network activation, and funding for the Good Beginnings Preschool and transitional kindergarten classes.
Extremist Lindy Mullen Doyle is challenging Jepperson on a far-right campaign. Doyle is an adjunct college professor and school volunteer. She is running to restrict funding for student programs and install misinformation and far-right ideas in Sedro-Wooley Valley curriculums.
Jepperson is not a progressive, but she is the best choice in this race for Sedro-Wooley Valley School Board, Director District 2.
Christina Jepperson
Incumbent director Christina Jepperson is running for another term in Sedro-Wooley Valley School Board, Director District 2. Jepperson has served on the school board for a decade and has spent her professional career as a nurse. She also serves as an active volunteer with the school district.
-
-
Incumbent director Christina Jepperson is running for another term in Sedro-Wooley Valley School Board, Director District 2. Jepperson has served on the school board for a decade and has spent her professional career as a nurse. She also serves as an active volunteer with the school district.
In office, Jepperson has funded career and technical education programs and worked with the community to create internship and apprenticeship opportunities that help students enter local industries and the broader job market. Now, she wants to utilize her knowledge of the board in order to address the most pressing issues facing the district. Jepperson is running on an informed and optimistic platform to invest in school infrastructure such as new heating systems and sewer repairs, AP class expansion, volunteer network activation, and funding for the Good Beginnings Preschool and transitional kindergarten classes.
Extremist Lindy Mullen Doyle is challenging Jepperson on a far-right campaign. Doyle is an adjunct college professor and school volunteer. She is running to restrict funding for student programs and install misinformation and far-right ideas in Sedro-Wooley Valley curriculums.
Jepperson is not a progressive, but she is the best choice in this race for Sedro-Wooley Valley School Board, Director District 2.
Last updated: 2023-11-01
-
-
Hannah Oliver is challenging incumbent Dani Baird Russell for Sedro-Woolley School Board, Director District 3. Oliver works as a statewide coordinator for the Washington Student Engagement Networks. She also teaches within the school district and works with the Human Rights Campaign. Additionally, she serves as a selection committee member for the Skagit Women’s Alliance and Network.
Oliver is running on a community-focused platform to ensure that Sedro-Woolley students can graduate with critical thinking skills, strong work ethics, and bright futures. She wants to engage wide perspectives In board decision-making so that the district leadership is working collaboratively with the community. Oliver also wants to ensure that the schools' limited budgets are not further cut and that students have the safety, academic resources, and supportive community to thrive, beyond just in their coursework.
Incumbent director Russell is seeking another term on the school board. She is a real estate agent and business owner. Russell is running on a vague platform to continue offering support for student success.
We believe Hannah Oliver is the best candidate for Sedro-Woolley School Board, Director District 3 because of her optimistic vision and Democratic support in this race.
Last updated: 2023-11-03Hannah Oliver
Hannah Oliver is challenging incumbent Dani Baird Russell for Sedro-Woolley School Board, Director District 3. Oliver works as a statewide coordinator for the Washington Student Engagement Networks. She also teaches within the school district and works with the Human Rights Campaign.
Hannah Oliver is challenging incumbent Dani Baird Russell for Sedro-Woolley School Board, Director District 3. Oliver works as a statewide coordinator for the Washington Student Engagement Networks. She also teaches within the school district and works with the Human Rights Campaign. Additionally, she serves as a selection committee member for the Skagit Women’s Alliance and Network.
Oliver is running on a community-focused platform to ensure that Sedro-Woolley students can graduate with critical thinking skills, strong work ethics, and bright futures. She wants to engage wide perspectives In board decision-making so that the district leadership is working collaboratively with the community. Oliver also wants to ensure that the schools' limited budgets are not further cut and that students have the safety, academic resources, and supportive community to thrive, beyond just in their coursework.
Incumbent director Russell is seeking another term on the school board. She is a real estate agent and business owner. Russell is running on a vague platform to continue offering support for student success.
We believe Hannah Oliver is the best candidate for Sedro-Woolley School Board, Director District 3 because of her optimistic vision and Democratic support in this race.
Hannah Oliver
Hannah Oliver is challenging incumbent Dani Baird Russell for Sedro-Woolley School Board, Director District 3. Oliver works as a statewide coordinator for the Washington Student Engagement Networks. She also teaches within the school district and works with the Human Rights Campaign.
-
-
Hannah Oliver is challenging incumbent Dani Baird Russell for Sedro-Woolley School Board, Director District 3. Oliver works as a statewide coordinator for the Washington Student Engagement Networks. She also teaches within the school district and works with the Human Rights Campaign. Additionally, she serves as a selection committee member for the Skagit Women’s Alliance and Network.
Oliver is running on a community-focused platform to ensure that Sedro-Woolley students can graduate with critical thinking skills, strong work ethics, and bright futures. She wants to engage wide perspectives In board decision-making so that the district leadership is working collaboratively with the community. Oliver also wants to ensure that the schools' limited budgets are not further cut and that students have the safety, academic resources, and supportive community to thrive, beyond just in their coursework.
Incumbent director Russell is seeking another term on the school board. She is a real estate agent and business owner. Russell is running on a vague platform to continue offering support for student success.
We believe Hannah Oliver is the best candidate for Sedro-Woolley School Board, Director District 3 because of her optimistic vision and Democratic support in this race.
Last updated: 2023-11-03
-
-
Nurse and incumbent Kate Espy is running to be retained on the South Kitsap School Board in Director District 1. Espy was originally appointed in 2021. She has spent 40 years in forensic and emergency room nursing, and also previously worked at an elementary school as a nurse for students who need special medical care. Espy is an active community leader, serving as the president of the Kitsap Support Advocacy Counseling Board, a member of Soroptimist International of Port Orchard, and a previous member of the South Kitsap School District Citizen Budget Review Committee.
Espy wants to bring the highest quality education and opportunities to South Kitsap students. If retained, she wants to strengthen the relationships between the board, district families, and staff. Espy’s board experience and professional work with trauma victims make her a strong listener and effective collaborator.
Local business owner John Sehmel is challenging Espy in this race. Sehmel is running a conservative campaign that fails to address the most pressing issues for students, teachers, and staff in the district. Instead, he wants to restrict funding for student resources and eliminate age-appropriate comprehensive sexual health education. He is endorsed by extremist groups and religious organizations.
Kate Espy is the clear choice for South Kitsap School Board, Director District 1.
Last updated: 2023-10-17Kate Espy
Nurse and incumbent Kate Espy is running to be retained on the South Kitsap School Board in Director District 1. Espy was originally appointed in 2021.
Nurse and incumbent Kate Espy is running to be retained on the South Kitsap School Board in Director District 1. Espy was originally appointed in 2021. She has spent 40 years in forensic and emergency room nursing, and also previously worked at an elementary school as a nurse for students who need special medical care. Espy is an active community leader, serving as the president of the Kitsap Support Advocacy Counseling Board, a member of Soroptimist International of Port Orchard, and a previous member of the South Kitsap School District Citizen Budget Review Committee.
Espy wants to bring the highest quality education and opportunities to South Kitsap students. If retained, she wants to strengthen the relationships between the board, district families, and staff. Espy’s board experience and professional work with trauma victims make her a strong listener and effective collaborator.
Local business owner John Sehmel is challenging Espy in this race. Sehmel is running a conservative campaign that fails to address the most pressing issues for students, teachers, and staff in the district. Instead, he wants to restrict funding for student resources and eliminate age-appropriate comprehensive sexual health education. He is endorsed by extremist groups and religious organizations.
Kate Espy is the clear choice for South Kitsap School Board, Director District 1.
Kate Espy
Nurse and incumbent Kate Espy is running to be retained on the South Kitsap School Board in Director District 1. Espy was originally appointed in 2021.
-
-
Nurse and incumbent Kate Espy is running to be retained on the South Kitsap School Board in Director District 1. Espy was originally appointed in 2021. She has spent 40 years in forensic and emergency room nursing, and also previously worked at an elementary school as a nurse for students who need special medical care. Espy is an active community leader, serving as the president of the Kitsap Support Advocacy Counseling Board, a member of Soroptimist International of Port Orchard, and a previous member of the South Kitsap School District Citizen Budget Review Committee.
Espy wants to bring the highest quality education and opportunities to South Kitsap students. If retained, she wants to strengthen the relationships between the board, district families, and staff. Espy’s board experience and professional work with trauma victims make her a strong listener and effective collaborator.
Local business owner John Sehmel is challenging Espy in this race. Sehmel is running a conservative campaign that fails to address the most pressing issues for students, teachers, and staff in the district. Instead, he wants to restrict funding for student resources and eliminate age-appropriate comprehensive sexual health education. He is endorsed by extremist groups and religious organizations.
Kate Espy is the clear choice for South Kitsap School Board, Director District 1.
Last updated: 2023-10-17
-
-
Megan Higgins is running for South Kitsap School Board, Director District 2, the seat currently held by John Berg. Higgins works for Seattle Children’s Hospital in clinical research. She has also worked in tutoring and parents three students currently enrolled in the district.
Higgins is running on a progressive platform to invest in our school district. One of her top priorities is to support teaching staff to create a positive work environment and a high-quality education. If elected, Higgins also wants to make upgrades to the school district to repair and replace aging infrastructure. In this race, she has earned endorsements from progressive organizations and community leaders.
Jaime Cross, who owns his own masonry business, is also in this race. Endorsed by the Republican Party, Cross is running on an extremist platform to promote curriculums full of misinformation and political agendas. He will not bring a community focus to the board.
Megan Higgins is the best choice in this race for South Kitsap School Board, Director District 2.
Last updated: 2023-10-20Megan Higgins
Megan Higgins is running for South Kitsap School Board, Director District 2, the seat currently held by John Berg. Higgins works for Seattle Children’s Hospital in clinical research. She has also worked in tutoring and parents three students currently enrolled in the district.
Megan Higgins is running for South Kitsap School Board, Director District 2, the seat currently held by John Berg. Higgins works for Seattle Children’s Hospital in clinical research. She has also worked in tutoring and parents three students currently enrolled in the district.
Higgins is running on a progressive platform to invest in our school district. One of her top priorities is to support teaching staff to create a positive work environment and a high-quality education. If elected, Higgins also wants to make upgrades to the school district to repair and replace aging infrastructure. In this race, she has earned endorsements from progressive organizations and community leaders.
Jaime Cross, who owns his own masonry business, is also in this race. Endorsed by the Republican Party, Cross is running on an extremist platform to promote curriculums full of misinformation and political agendas. He will not bring a community focus to the board.
Megan Higgins is the best choice in this race for South Kitsap School Board, Director District 2.
Megan Higgins
Megan Higgins is running for South Kitsap School Board, Director District 2, the seat currently held by John Berg. Higgins works for Seattle Children’s Hospital in clinical research. She has also worked in tutoring and parents three students currently enrolled in the district.
-
-
Megan Higgins is running for South Kitsap School Board, Director District 2, the seat currently held by John Berg. Higgins works for Seattle Children’s Hospital in clinical research. She has also worked in tutoring and parents three students currently enrolled in the district.
Higgins is running on a progressive platform to invest in our school district. One of her top priorities is to support teaching staff to create a positive work environment and a high-quality education. If elected, Higgins also wants to make upgrades to the school district to repair and replace aging infrastructure. In this race, she has earned endorsements from progressive organizations and community leaders.
Jaime Cross, who owns his own masonry business, is also in this race. Endorsed by the Republican Party, Cross is running on an extremist platform to promote curriculums full of misinformation and political agendas. He will not bring a community focus to the board.
Megan Higgins is the best choice in this race for South Kitsap School Board, Director District 2.
Last updated: 2023-10-20
-
-
Jay Villars is running for the South Kitsap School Board in District 5. Villars has spent 38 years working in public education, including time as a classroom teacher, special education teacher, principal, and assistant superintendent. He is a frequent volunteer with the local Rotary and Kiwanis clubs, and holds a master's degree in public education.
Unlike his opponent Rhonda Edwards, Villars is an enthusiastic supporter of the bond that would fund much-needed improvements to our schools. If elected, he would make sure students could go to class in world-class facilities instead of closing schools and overcrowding classrooms to cut costs.
Another distinction from his opponent is his support for equity in schools. He wants to enfranchise and involve kids with special needs instead of segregating them from their peers, and says he is passionate about diversity and inclusion in education. He also supports the comprehensive sex education curriculum that has been vetted and approved to prepare students to take care of their health.
His opponent is Rhonda Edwards, a Republican-endorsed real estate broker. Edwards is aligned with the far-right group Moms For Liberty, which wants to ban books from school libraries, eliminate age-appropriate and comprehensive sex education, and change school curriculums to whitewash our history.
Edwards has spoken out publicly against gender inclusivity guidance in schools that recommends against school employees outing trans students to their parents. She also wants to increase testing in schools, limit books that "sexualize" kids, and allow parents to opt their kids out of critical sex education.
Edwards also testified against a bond that would fund diversity and inclusion efforts, as well as improvements to school infrastructure. Edwards wants to close schools and crowd students more tightly into classrooms instead of replacing our aging buildings.
Edwards' personal social media has posts where she supports eliminating Washington's popular vote-by-mail system, criticizes the George Floyd Protests, and calls for an end to Washington's COVID restrictions during the height of the pandemic in May of 2020.
Our students deserve to be represented by an experienced educator who would create high-quality, inclusive schools for every kid. Villars is by far the best choice in this race.
Last updated: 2023-10-20Jay Villars
Jay Villars is running for the South Kitsap School Board in District 5. Villars has spent 38 years working in public education, including time as a classroom teacher, special education teacher, principal, and assistant superintendent.
Jay Villars is running for the South Kitsap School Board in District 5. Villars has spent 38 years working in public education, including time as a classroom teacher, special education teacher, principal, and assistant superintendent. He is a frequent volunteer with the local Rotary and Kiwanis clubs, and holds a master's degree in public education.
Unlike his opponent Rhonda Edwards, Villars is an enthusiastic supporter of the bond that would fund much-needed improvements to our schools. If elected, he would make sure students could go to class in world-class facilities instead of closing schools and overcrowding classrooms to cut costs.
Another distinction from his opponent is his support for equity in schools. He wants to enfranchise and involve kids with special needs instead of segregating them from their peers, and says he is passionate about diversity and inclusion in education. He also supports the comprehensive sex education curriculum that has been vetted and approved to prepare students to take care of their health.
His opponent is Rhonda Edwards, a Republican-endorsed real estate broker. Edwards is aligned with the far-right group Moms For Liberty, which wants to ban books from school libraries, eliminate age-appropriate and comprehensive sex education, and change school curriculums to whitewash our history.
Edwards has spoken out publicly against gender inclusivity guidance in schools that recommends against school employees outing trans students to their parents. She also wants to increase testing in schools, limit books that "sexualize" kids, and allow parents to opt their kids out of critical sex education.
Edwards also testified against a bond that would fund diversity and inclusion efforts, as well as improvements to school infrastructure. Edwards wants to close schools and crowd students more tightly into classrooms instead of replacing our aging buildings.
Edwards' personal social media has posts where she supports eliminating Washington's popular vote-by-mail system, criticizes the George Floyd Protests, and calls for an end to Washington's COVID restrictions during the height of the pandemic in May of 2020.
Our students deserve to be represented by an experienced educator who would create high-quality, inclusive schools for every kid. Villars is by far the best choice in this race.
Jay Villars
Jay Villars is running for the South Kitsap School Board in District 5. Villars has spent 38 years working in public education, including time as a classroom teacher, special education teacher, principal, and assistant superintendent.
-
-
Jay Villars is running for the South Kitsap School Board in District 5. Villars has spent 38 years working in public education, including time as a classroom teacher, special education teacher, principal, and assistant superintendent. He is a frequent volunteer with the local Rotary and Kiwanis clubs, and holds a master's degree in public education.
Unlike his opponent Rhonda Edwards, Villars is an enthusiastic supporter of the bond that would fund much-needed improvements to our schools. If elected, he would make sure students could go to class in world-class facilities instead of closing schools and overcrowding classrooms to cut costs.
Another distinction from his opponent is his support for equity in schools. He wants to enfranchise and involve kids with special needs instead of segregating them from their peers, and says he is passionate about diversity and inclusion in education. He also supports the comprehensive sex education curriculum that has been vetted and approved to prepare students to take care of their health.
His opponent is Rhonda Edwards, a Republican-endorsed real estate broker. Edwards is aligned with the far-right group Moms For Liberty, which wants to ban books from school libraries, eliminate age-appropriate and comprehensive sex education, and change school curriculums to whitewash our history.
Edwards has spoken out publicly against gender inclusivity guidance in schools that recommends against school employees outing trans students to their parents. She also wants to increase testing in schools, limit books that "sexualize" kids, and allow parents to opt their kids out of critical sex education.
Edwards also testified against a bond that would fund diversity and inclusion efforts, as well as improvements to school infrastructure. Edwards wants to close schools and crowd students more tightly into classrooms instead of replacing our aging buildings.
Edwards' personal social media has posts where she supports eliminating Washington's popular vote-by-mail system, criticizes the George Floyd Protests, and calls for an end to Washington's COVID restrictions during the height of the pandemic in May of 2020.
Our students deserve to be represented by an experienced educator who would create high-quality, inclusive schools for every kid. Villars is by far the best choice in this race.
Last updated: 2023-10-20
-
-
Mike Wiser is a healthcare consultant and the current president of Spokane Public Schools' Board of Directors, where he has served since 2017. Wiser was born in Spokane, where he worked as a chief strategy officer at CHAS Heath, a nonprofit community health center. Wiser also spent some time as a stay-at-home father to his two kids, during which he founded Spokane Dads, a social group for kids and dads.
Wiser is running for re-election to Position 5 to keep class sizes small, recover from the pandemic in a responsible way, and reform unjust discipline practices. Before Wiser's time as a director, Spokane Public Schools had the highest numbers in the state for students being restrained or isolated in padded rooms. The district has now banned these outdated practices that harmed students, particularly students of color and students with disabilities.
Wiser also approved redrawing school zone boundaries and adding new schools to keep class sizes small enough for all students to get support from their teachers. Because of the concerns over the socioeconomic divisions between schools, Wiser also held back his full support for the new plans until he ensured that there were options such as magnet schools to serve disadvantaged kids.
Wiser faces a challenge from Ericka Lalka, a real estate investor and committeewoman for the Republican party. If elected, she would reduce the funding that our schools need to help teachers and kids thrive, as evidenced by her fearmongering that our school budgets are "spiraling out of control". Lalka also would support armed security in schools, though we know allowing people with guns to police our schools will only make them worse places for learning. Lalka additionally would deprive kids of basic sex education, making STIs and unplanned pregnancies more likely. Wiser, in contrast, wants to keep campus officers unarmed to keep our kids safe, and supports the current comprehensive sex education that will keep kids healthy.
Wiser is fighting to make Spokane's public schools amazing places for every kid to learn, regardless of their race, income, or disability needs. Because of his seven years of dedication to our teachers and students, Mike Wiser has earned your vote for Position 5.
Last updated: 2023-10-12Mike Wiser
Mike Wiser is a healthcare consultant and the current president of Spokane Public Schools' Board of Directors, where he has served since 2017. Wiser was born in Spokane, where he worked as a chief strategy officer at CHAS Heath, a nonprofit community health center.
Mike Wiser is a healthcare consultant and the current president of Spokane Public Schools' Board of Directors, where he has served since 2017. Wiser was born in Spokane, where he worked as a chief strategy officer at CHAS Heath, a nonprofit community health center. Wiser also spent some time as a stay-at-home father to his two kids, during which he founded Spokane Dads, a social group for kids and dads.
Wiser is running for re-election to Position 5 to keep class sizes small, recover from the pandemic in a responsible way, and reform unjust discipline practices. Before Wiser's time as a director, Spokane Public Schools had the highest numbers in the state for students being restrained or isolated in padded rooms. The district has now banned these outdated practices that harmed students, particularly students of color and students with disabilities.
Wiser also approved redrawing school zone boundaries and adding new schools to keep class sizes small enough for all students to get support from their teachers. Because of the concerns over the socioeconomic divisions between schools, Wiser also held back his full support for the new plans until he ensured that there were options such as magnet schools to serve disadvantaged kids.
Wiser faces a challenge from Ericka Lalka, a real estate investor and committeewoman for the Republican party. If elected, she would reduce the funding that our schools need to help teachers and kids thrive, as evidenced by her fearmongering that our school budgets are "spiraling out of control". Lalka also would support armed security in schools, though we know allowing people with guns to police our schools will only make them worse places for learning. Lalka additionally would deprive kids of basic sex education, making STIs and unplanned pregnancies more likely. Wiser, in contrast, wants to keep campus officers unarmed to keep our kids safe, and supports the current comprehensive sex education that will keep kids healthy.
Wiser is fighting to make Spokane's public schools amazing places for every kid to learn, regardless of their race, income, or disability needs. Because of his seven years of dedication to our teachers and students, Mike Wiser has earned your vote for Position 5.
Mike Wiser
Mike Wiser is a healthcare consultant and the current president of Spokane Public Schools' Board of Directors, where he has served since 2017. Wiser was born in Spokane, where he worked as a chief strategy officer at CHAS Heath, a nonprofit community health center.
-
-
Mike Wiser is a healthcare consultant and the current president of Spokane Public Schools' Board of Directors, where he has served since 2017. Wiser was born in Spokane, where he worked as a chief strategy officer at CHAS Heath, a nonprofit community health center. Wiser also spent some time as a stay-at-home father to his two kids, during which he founded Spokane Dads, a social group for kids and dads.
Wiser is running for re-election to Position 5 to keep class sizes small, recover from the pandemic in a responsible way, and reform unjust discipline practices. Before Wiser's time as a director, Spokane Public Schools had the highest numbers in the state for students being restrained or isolated in padded rooms. The district has now banned these outdated practices that harmed students, particularly students of color and students with disabilities.
Wiser also approved redrawing school zone boundaries and adding new schools to keep class sizes small enough for all students to get support from their teachers. Because of the concerns over the socioeconomic divisions between schools, Wiser also held back his full support for the new plans until he ensured that there were options such as magnet schools to serve disadvantaged kids.
Wiser faces a challenge from Ericka Lalka, a real estate investor and committeewoman for the Republican party. If elected, she would reduce the funding that our schools need to help teachers and kids thrive, as evidenced by her fearmongering that our school budgets are "spiraling out of control". Lalka also would support armed security in schools, though we know allowing people with guns to police our schools will only make them worse places for learning. Lalka additionally would deprive kids of basic sex education, making STIs and unplanned pregnancies more likely. Wiser, in contrast, wants to keep campus officers unarmed to keep our kids safe, and supports the current comprehensive sex education that will keep kids healthy.
Wiser is fighting to make Spokane's public schools amazing places for every kid to learn, regardless of their race, income, or disability needs. Because of his seven years of dedication to our teachers and students, Mike Wiser has earned your vote for Position 5.
Last updated: 2023-10-12
-
-
Rocca Lamanna is running for Sumer-Bonney Lake School District Board of Directors, District 2. He is an associate vice provost for Golden Gate University in San Francisco. Born and raised in Washington, he returned to Lake Tapps in 2020 after earning a master's in Organizational Development and an EdD in Educational Leadership and Management. Lamanna has two adopted sons who attend school in the district and has worked with local administrators to advocate for them and increase a sense of inclusion in the district for all students.
Lamanna's top three priorities are school safety, building community, and finding common ground to advance student outcomes. He wants to work with the district to improve the recruitment and retention of diverse school staff and ensure that the local curriculum stays historically accurate.
His opponent in this race is incumbent Paul Williams, a Republican Party-endorsed candidate. His top priorities are parent engagement and academic growth. Williams vaguely alludes to the politicization of schools on his website. However, he doesn't commit to keeping schools inclusive of all students and forgoing conservative trends of attempting to ban books and whitewash curriculums of different cultures and stories.
Lamanna has been endorsed by the local Democrats and education advocates who believe in his vision for education in the district. He is the best choice in this race.
Last updated: 2023-11-01Rocca Lamanna
Rocca Lamanna is running for Sumer-Bonney Lake School District Board of Directors, District 2. He is an associate vice provost for Golden Gate University in San Francisco.
Rocca Lamanna is running for Sumer-Bonney Lake School District Board of Directors, District 2. He is an associate vice provost for Golden Gate University in San Francisco. Born and raised in Washington, he returned to Lake Tapps in 2020 after earning a master's in Organizational Development and an EdD in Educational Leadership and Management. Lamanna has two adopted sons who attend school in the district and has worked with local administrators to advocate for them and increase a sense of inclusion in the district for all students.
Lamanna's top three priorities are school safety, building community, and finding common ground to advance student outcomes. He wants to work with the district to improve the recruitment and retention of diverse school staff and ensure that the local curriculum stays historically accurate.
His opponent in this race is incumbent Paul Williams, a Republican Party-endorsed candidate. His top priorities are parent engagement and academic growth. Williams vaguely alludes to the politicization of schools on his website. However, he doesn't commit to keeping schools inclusive of all students and forgoing conservative trends of attempting to ban books and whitewash curriculums of different cultures and stories.
Lamanna has been endorsed by the local Democrats and education advocates who believe in his vision for education in the district. He is the best choice in this race.
Rocca Lamanna
Rocca Lamanna is running for Sumer-Bonney Lake School District Board of Directors, District 2. He is an associate vice provost for Golden Gate University in San Francisco.
-
-
Rocca Lamanna is running for Sumer-Bonney Lake School District Board of Directors, District 2. He is an associate vice provost for Golden Gate University in San Francisco. Born and raised in Washington, he returned to Lake Tapps in 2020 after earning a master's in Organizational Development and an EdD in Educational Leadership and Management. Lamanna has two adopted sons who attend school in the district and has worked with local administrators to advocate for them and increase a sense of inclusion in the district for all students.
Lamanna's top three priorities are school safety, building community, and finding common ground to advance student outcomes. He wants to work with the district to improve the recruitment and retention of diverse school staff and ensure that the local curriculum stays historically accurate.
His opponent in this race is incumbent Paul Williams, a Republican Party-endorsed candidate. His top priorities are parent engagement and academic growth. Williams vaguely alludes to the politicization of schools on his website. However, he doesn't commit to keeping schools inclusive of all students and forgoing conservative trends of attempting to ban books and whitewash curriculums of different cultures and stories.
Lamanna has been endorsed by the local Democrats and education advocates who believe in his vision for education in the district. He is the best choice in this race.
Last updated: 2023-11-01
-
-
Incumbent Kevin Lewis is running for Sumner-Bonney Lake School District, Board Director 3. Lewis' reelection campaign aims to continue his work in ensuring that schools remain safe, inclusive, and high-functioning. He has served in the community on the Donald Eismann Elementary and McAlder Elementary PTAs, as well as on the district's Equity Advisory Committee, among other leadership roles.
Lewis is proud that the district's enrollment and financial stability are strong, and that graduation rates continue to rise. Workforce programming has also helped students land jobs across different industries post-graduation. Lewis' progressive foundations drive him to continue looking for full funding for the resources our schools depend on, including bus drivers, technology, and more.
Lewis' opponent is right-wing candidate Denis Caron, who was recently outed by The News Tribune as a Moms for Liberty-supported candidate. Caron was caught on audio stating that he would "devise a way to bring our family values and our community values into the schools... We've spent a lot of years trying to dive away from bringing things like God into schools, we've spent a lot of time sort of sweeping him away, I don't think that's okay."
Washington schools don't need religious, hyper-polarizing politics interrupting our students' ability to receive a modern education. Vote Kevin Lewis for Sumner-Bonney Lake School Board.
Last updated: 2023-11-01Kevin Lewis
Incumbent Kevin Lewis is running for Sumner-Bonney Lake School District, Board Director 3. Lewis' reelection campaign aims to continue his work in ensuring that schools remain safe, inclusive, and high-functioning.
Incumbent Kevin Lewis is running for Sumner-Bonney Lake School District, Board Director 3. Lewis' reelection campaign aims to continue his work in ensuring that schools remain safe, inclusive, and high-functioning. He has served in the community on the Donald Eismann Elementary and McAlder Elementary PTAs, as well as on the district's Equity Advisory Committee, among other leadership roles.
Lewis is proud that the district's enrollment and financial stability are strong, and that graduation rates continue to rise. Workforce programming has also helped students land jobs across different industries post-graduation. Lewis' progressive foundations drive him to continue looking for full funding for the resources our schools depend on, including bus drivers, technology, and more.
Lewis' opponent is right-wing candidate Denis Caron, who was recently outed by The News Tribune as a Moms for Liberty-supported candidate. Caron was caught on audio stating that he would "devise a way to bring our family values and our community values into the schools... We've spent a lot of years trying to dive away from bringing things like God into schools, we've spent a lot of time sort of sweeping him away, I don't think that's okay."
Washington schools don't need religious, hyper-polarizing politics interrupting our students' ability to receive a modern education. Vote Kevin Lewis for Sumner-Bonney Lake School Board.
Kevin Lewis
Incumbent Kevin Lewis is running for Sumner-Bonney Lake School District, Board Director 3. Lewis' reelection campaign aims to continue his work in ensuring that schools remain safe, inclusive, and high-functioning.
-
-
Incumbent Kevin Lewis is running for Sumner-Bonney Lake School District, Board Director 3. Lewis' reelection campaign aims to continue his work in ensuring that schools remain safe, inclusive, and high-functioning. He has served in the community on the Donald Eismann Elementary and McAlder Elementary PTAs, as well as on the district's Equity Advisory Committee, among other leadership roles.
Lewis is proud that the district's enrollment and financial stability are strong, and that graduation rates continue to rise. Workforce programming has also helped students land jobs across different industries post-graduation. Lewis' progressive foundations drive him to continue looking for full funding for the resources our schools depend on, including bus drivers, technology, and more.
Lewis' opponent is right-wing candidate Denis Caron, who was recently outed by The News Tribune as a Moms for Liberty-supported candidate. Caron was caught on audio stating that he would "devise a way to bring our family values and our community values into the schools... We've spent a lot of years trying to dive away from bringing things like God into schools, we've spent a lot of time sort of sweeping him away, I don't think that's okay."
Washington schools don't need religious, hyper-polarizing politics interrupting our students' ability to receive a modern education. Vote Kevin Lewis for Sumner-Bonney Lake School Board.
Last updated: 2023-11-01
-
-
William "Bill" Gaines is running for the Sumner-Bonney Lake School Board of Directors, District 4. Gaines worked as a classroom teacher for 15 years, as a building principal for 21, and as an assistant superintendent for another 5. He also worked with the Renton Teacher's Association and was the negotiation lead for the Sumner Principal Association.
Gaines is aiming to continue his passion for education and advocacy in this role, using his extensive school experience to elevate student success, listen to community members, and create a respectful environment for students and staff. He has been endorsed by local Democrats and teachers for his unifying vision for the district.
Running against Gaines is Paul Monsen, whose conservative campaign is supported by the county Republicans, far-right religious groups, and Moms for Liberty, an organization looking to ban books from school libraries and eliminate comprehensive and age-appropriate sex education. He has worked as a plumber and a mechanical company superintendent.
The school board is no place to push divisive agendas that alienate students and prevent them from achieving a modern education. Vote Gaines for Sumner-Bonney Lake School Board, District 4.
Last updated: 2023-11-05Bill Gains
William "Bill" Gaines is running for the Sumner-Bonney Lake School Board of Directors, District 4. Gaines worked as a classroom teacher for 15 years, as a building principal for 21, and as an assistant superintendent for another 5.
William "Bill" Gaines is running for the Sumner-Bonney Lake School Board of Directors, District 4. Gaines worked as a classroom teacher for 15 years, as a building principal for 21, and as an assistant superintendent for another 5. He also worked with the Renton Teacher's Association and was the negotiation lead for the Sumner Principal Association.
Gaines is aiming to continue his passion for education and advocacy in this role, using his extensive school experience to elevate student success, listen to community members, and create a respectful environment for students and staff. He has been endorsed by local Democrats and teachers for his unifying vision for the district.
Running against Gaines is Paul Monsen, whose conservative campaign is supported by the county Republicans, far-right religious groups, and Moms for Liberty, an organization looking to ban books from school libraries and eliminate comprehensive and age-appropriate sex education. He has worked as a plumber and a mechanical company superintendent.
The school board is no place to push divisive agendas that alienate students and prevent them from achieving a modern education. Vote Gaines for Sumner-Bonney Lake School Board, District 4.
Bill Gains
William "Bill" Gaines is running for the Sumner-Bonney Lake School Board of Directors, District 4. Gaines worked as a classroom teacher for 15 years, as a building principal for 21, and as an assistant superintendent for another 5.
-
-
William "Bill" Gaines is running for the Sumner-Bonney Lake School Board of Directors, District 4. Gaines worked as a classroom teacher for 15 years, as a building principal for 21, and as an assistant superintendent for another 5. He also worked with the Renton Teacher's Association and was the negotiation lead for the Sumner Principal Association.
Gaines is aiming to continue his passion for education and advocacy in this role, using his extensive school experience to elevate student success, listen to community members, and create a respectful environment for students and staff. He has been endorsed by local Democrats and teachers for his unifying vision for the district.
Running against Gaines is Paul Monsen, whose conservative campaign is supported by the county Republicans, far-right religious groups, and Moms for Liberty, an organization looking to ban books from school libraries and eliminate comprehensive and age-appropriate sex education. He has worked as a plumber and a mechanical company superintendent.
The school board is no place to push divisive agendas that alienate students and prevent them from achieving a modern education. Vote Gaines for Sumner-Bonney Lake School Board, District 4.
Last updated: 2023-11-05
-
-
School board vice-president Korey Strozier is running unopposed for re-election to the Tacoma School Board in Director District 3. Strozier was first appointed to the school board in 2020 and retained by voters the following year. He is the director of King County Youthsource, a public program to help youth further their education and employment opportunities.
Strozier is the only Black school board member currently, and he has been a strong advocate for disenfranchised students and equity in our school district. His accomplishments in office include leading the school district through the coronavirus pandemic and earning a statewide award for his work on developing anti-racist policy and closing opportunity gaps. Now, he is running on a community-responsive platform to bring more transparency and engagement to the school board as well as implementing financial literacy programs. If re-elected, Strozier will continue to ensure students from all backgrounds have the same opportunity for success in Tacoma schools. His re-election is supported by an impressive and long list of elected and community leaders.
Strozier has been a staunch progressive on the board, and he deserves your vote for another term in Tacoma School Board, Director District 3.
Last updated: 2023-10-19Korey Strozier
School board vice-president Korey Strozier is running unopposed for re-election to the Tacoma School Board in Director District 3. Strozier was first appointed to the school board in 2020 and retained by voters the following year.
School board vice-president Korey Strozier is running unopposed for re-election to the Tacoma School Board in Director District 3. Strozier was first appointed to the school board in 2020 and retained by voters the following year. He is the director of King County Youthsource, a public program to help youth further their education and employment opportunities.
Strozier is the only Black school board member currently, and he has been a strong advocate for disenfranchised students and equity in our school district. His accomplishments in office include leading the school district through the coronavirus pandemic and earning a statewide award for his work on developing anti-racist policy and closing opportunity gaps. Now, he is running on a community-responsive platform to bring more transparency and engagement to the school board as well as implementing financial literacy programs. If re-elected, Strozier will continue to ensure students from all backgrounds have the same opportunity for success in Tacoma schools. His re-election is supported by an impressive and long list of elected and community leaders.
Strozier has been a staunch progressive on the board, and he deserves your vote for another term in Tacoma School Board, Director District 3.
Korey Strozier
School board vice-president Korey Strozier is running unopposed for re-election to the Tacoma School Board in Director District 3. Strozier was first appointed to the school board in 2020 and retained by voters the following year.
-
-
School board vice-president Korey Strozier is running unopposed for re-election to the Tacoma School Board in Director District 3. Strozier was first appointed to the school board in 2020 and retained by voters the following year. He is the director of King County Youthsource, a public program to help youth further their education and employment opportunities.
Strozier is the only Black school board member currently, and he has been a strong advocate for disenfranchised students and equity in our school district. His accomplishments in office include leading the school district through the coronavirus pandemic and earning a statewide award for his work on developing anti-racist policy and closing opportunity gaps. Now, he is running on a community-responsive platform to bring more transparency and engagement to the school board as well as implementing financial literacy programs. If re-elected, Strozier will continue to ensure students from all backgrounds have the same opportunity for success in Tacoma schools. His re-election is supported by an impressive and long list of elected and community leaders.
Strozier has been a staunch progressive on the board, and he deserves your vote for another term in Tacoma School Board, Director District 3.
Last updated: 2023-10-19
-
-
School board president Elizabeth Bonbright is running for another term for Tacoma School Board, Director Position 5. Bonbright originally joined the board by appointment in November 2019 and was retained by voters two years later. She spent her professional career in early childhood policy as an expert with over 30 years of experience. Bonbright served as the executive director of Child Care Aware of Washington for more than 20 years, improving the statewide child care resource and referral system. She currently volunteers with two PTAs and the Emergency Food Network.
Bonbright is running to continue serving the holistic needs of students in the district to ensure that graduates have had a strong education, social and emotional learning, and resources to grow into healthy adults with bright futures. She helped lead efforts to adopt an anti-racist policy within the district and is a strong advocate for policy to create equitable schools. Her top priorities in this race include investing in youth mental health resources, continuing to heighten academic quality, dismantling systemic racism, and ensuring student safety. Bonbright has earned a remarkable set of progressive and community endorsements in this race.
The candidate running as Brian'na Wolk (also known online as Brine Wolk and Brian Wolk) is challenging Bonbright on a very far-right platform. One of Wolk’s campaign websites is dedicated to the tired, conservative 'anti-woke' campaign which only serves to distract from the real issues facing our students and our district. Wolk has voiced some of the most extremist views in this election cycle, including advocating for installing misinformation in our students’ curriculums and circulating conspiracy theories about the district.
In this race, Wolk has claimed to be “a trans lesbian two-spirit indigenous woman of color.” Unfortunately, this appears to be a deeply offensive joke and not a reflection of Wolk’s identity and experiences. When asked about taking “the opportunity to create an identity that could move [Wolk] into a marginalized group” in an interview with The News Tribune, Wolk replied, “Why wouldn’t I do that?”
Elizabeth Bonbright is a strong advocate for students. She is the clear choice in this race for Tacoma School Board, Director Position 5.
Last updated: 2023-10-19Elizabeth Bonbright
School board president Elizabeth Bonbright is running for another term for Tacoma School Board, Director Position 5. Bonbright originally joined the board by appointment in November 2019 and was retained by voters two years later.
School board president Elizabeth Bonbright is running for another term for Tacoma School Board, Director Position 5. Bonbright originally joined the board by appointment in November 2019 and was retained by voters two years later. She spent her professional career in early childhood policy as an expert with over 30 years of experience. Bonbright served as the executive director of Child Care Aware of Washington for more than 20 years, improving the statewide child care resource and referral system. She currently volunteers with two PTAs and the Emergency Food Network.
Bonbright is running to continue serving the holistic needs of students in the district to ensure that graduates have had a strong education, social and emotional learning, and resources to grow into healthy adults with bright futures. She helped lead efforts to adopt an anti-racist policy within the district and is a strong advocate for policy to create equitable schools. Her top priorities in this race include investing in youth mental health resources, continuing to heighten academic quality, dismantling systemic racism, and ensuring student safety. Bonbright has earned a remarkable set of progressive and community endorsements in this race.
The candidate running as Brian'na Wolk (also known online as Brine Wolk and Brian Wolk) is challenging Bonbright on a very far-right platform. One of Wolk’s campaign websites is dedicated to the tired, conservative 'anti-woke' campaign which only serves to distract from the real issues facing our students and our district. Wolk has voiced some of the most extremist views in this election cycle, including advocating for installing misinformation in our students’ curriculums and circulating conspiracy theories about the district.
In this race, Wolk has claimed to be “a trans lesbian two-spirit indigenous woman of color.” Unfortunately, this appears to be a deeply offensive joke and not a reflection of Wolk’s identity and experiences. When asked about taking “the opportunity to create an identity that could move [Wolk] into a marginalized group” in an interview with The News Tribune, Wolk replied, “Why wouldn’t I do that?”
Elizabeth Bonbright is a strong advocate for students. She is the clear choice in this race for Tacoma School Board, Director Position 5.
Elizabeth Bonbright
School board president Elizabeth Bonbright is running for another term for Tacoma School Board, Director Position 5. Bonbright originally joined the board by appointment in November 2019 and was retained by voters two years later.
-
-
School board president Elizabeth Bonbright is running for another term for Tacoma School Board, Director Position 5. Bonbright originally joined the board by appointment in November 2019 and was retained by voters two years later. She spent her professional career in early childhood policy as an expert with over 30 years of experience. Bonbright served as the executive director of Child Care Aware of Washington for more than 20 years, improving the statewide child care resource and referral system. She currently volunteers with two PTAs and the Emergency Food Network.
Bonbright is running to continue serving the holistic needs of students in the district to ensure that graduates have had a strong education, social and emotional learning, and resources to grow into healthy adults with bright futures. She helped lead efforts to adopt an anti-racist policy within the district and is a strong advocate for policy to create equitable schools. Her top priorities in this race include investing in youth mental health resources, continuing to heighten academic quality, dismantling systemic racism, and ensuring student safety. Bonbright has earned a remarkable set of progressive and community endorsements in this race.
The candidate running as Brian'na Wolk (also known online as Brine Wolk and Brian Wolk) is challenging Bonbright on a very far-right platform. One of Wolk’s campaign websites is dedicated to the tired, conservative 'anti-woke' campaign which only serves to distract from the real issues facing our students and our district. Wolk has voiced some of the most extremist views in this election cycle, including advocating for installing misinformation in our students’ curriculums and circulating conspiracy theories about the district.
In this race, Wolk has claimed to be “a trans lesbian two-spirit indigenous woman of color.” Unfortunately, this appears to be a deeply offensive joke and not a reflection of Wolk’s identity and experiences. When asked about taking “the opportunity to create an identity that could move [Wolk] into a marginalized group” in an interview with The News Tribune, Wolk replied, “Why wouldn’t I do that?”
Elizabeth Bonbright is a strong advocate for students. She is the clear choice in this race for Tacoma School Board, Director Position 5.
Last updated: 2023-10-19
-
-
T'wina Nobles is an educator and community leader running to retain her seat on the University Place School Board. Nobles is a current board member of the University Place School Board, and was previously a teacher at Stadium and Lincoln High Schools. Nobles is also the CEO of the Tacoma Urban League and the Black Future Co-op Fund, organizations that build cooperative power in the Black community. Nobles made history in 2020 when she was elected to as a senator for the 28th district, becoming the first Black state senator to serve in over a decade.
As someone who has worked in education for more than 15 years and has experienced foster care and homelessness firsthand, Nobles became an extremely effective champion for our students in the state senate. She passed bills to mandate 45 minutes of recess per day, expand our state financial aid for college, and require school supports for students experiencing foster care. She also introduced a bill that would have required schools to make school lunches free.
During her time with the University Place School Board, she has lead efforts to make sure every student can thrive, regardless of their zip code, family's income, or the color of their skin. She supporting funding school planners, homecoming events, and college tours to historically Black colleges and universities.
Nobles' opponent is Linda Wojciechowski, a conservative Christian who is running for a seat on the University Place School Board. In her role as a volunteer jail chaplain, Wojciechowski made inappropriate and harmful comments about LGBTQ+ members of the community. She used similarly incendiary language in her multiple testimonies before the school board where she used fearmongering to divide us, rather than presenting real solutions for all students and families.
Nobles would continue to ensure that every student has access to an honest, inclusive, quality education, and she deserves your vote for the University Place School Board.
Last updated: 2023-10-19T'wina Nobles
T'wina Nobles is an educator and community leader running to retain her seat on the University Place School Board. Nobles is a current board member of the University Place School Board, and was previously a teacher at Stadium and Lincoln High Schools.
T'wina Nobles is an educator and community leader running to retain her seat on the University Place School Board. Nobles is a current board member of the University Place School Board, and was previously a teacher at Stadium and Lincoln High Schools. Nobles is also the CEO of the Tacoma Urban League and the Black Future Co-op Fund, organizations that build cooperative power in the Black community. Nobles made history in 2020 when she was elected to as a senator for the 28th district, becoming the first Black state senator to serve in over a decade.
As someone who has worked in education for more than 15 years and has experienced foster care and homelessness firsthand, Nobles became an extremely effective champion for our students in the state senate. She passed bills to mandate 45 minutes of recess per day, expand our state financial aid for college, and require school supports for students experiencing foster care. She also introduced a bill that would have required schools to make school lunches free.
During her time with the University Place School Board, she has lead efforts to make sure every student can thrive, regardless of their zip code, family's income, or the color of their skin. She supporting funding school planners, homecoming events, and college tours to historically Black colleges and universities.
Nobles' opponent is Linda Wojciechowski, a conservative Christian who is running for a seat on the University Place School Board. In her role as a volunteer jail chaplain, Wojciechowski made inappropriate and harmful comments about LGBTQ+ members of the community. She used similarly incendiary language in her multiple testimonies before the school board where she used fearmongering to divide us, rather than presenting real solutions for all students and families.
Nobles would continue to ensure that every student has access to an honest, inclusive, quality education, and she deserves your vote for the University Place School Board.
T'wina Nobles
T'wina Nobles is an educator and community leader running to retain her seat on the University Place School Board. Nobles is a current board member of the University Place School Board, and was previously a teacher at Stadium and Lincoln High Schools.
-
-
T'wina Nobles is an educator and community leader running to retain her seat on the University Place School Board. Nobles is a current board member of the University Place School Board, and was previously a teacher at Stadium and Lincoln High Schools. Nobles is also the CEO of the Tacoma Urban League and the Black Future Co-op Fund, organizations that build cooperative power in the Black community. Nobles made history in 2020 when she was elected to as a senator for the 28th district, becoming the first Black state senator to serve in over a decade.
As someone who has worked in education for more than 15 years and has experienced foster care and homelessness firsthand, Nobles became an extremely effective champion for our students in the state senate. She passed bills to mandate 45 minutes of recess per day, expand our state financial aid for college, and require school supports for students experiencing foster care. She also introduced a bill that would have required schools to make school lunches free.
During her time with the University Place School Board, she has lead efforts to make sure every student can thrive, regardless of their zip code, family's income, or the color of their skin. She supporting funding school planners, homecoming events, and college tours to historically Black colleges and universities.
Nobles' opponent is Linda Wojciechowski, a conservative Christian who is running for a seat on the University Place School Board. In her role as a volunteer jail chaplain, Wojciechowski made inappropriate and harmful comments about LGBTQ+ members of the community. She used similarly incendiary language in her multiple testimonies before the school board where she used fearmongering to divide us, rather than presenting real solutions for all students and families.
Nobles would continue to ensure that every student has access to an honest, inclusive, quality education, and she deserves your vote for the University Place School Board.
Last updated: 2023-10-19
-
Express Recommendation -
Kyle Sproul is running unopposed for re-election to the Vancouver Public Schools Board Director, Position 1. She is the mother of three Vancouver Public Schools students and has served on the board since 2019, including as board chair in 2021. She is proud of her work in hiring a new superintendent and passing an equity policy for the district.
Kyle Sproul has earned your vote based on her track record in office and endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders.
Last updated: 2023-10-31Kyle Sproul
Kyle Sproul is running unopposed for re-election to the Vancouver Public Schools Board Director, Position 1. She is the mother of three Vancouver Public Schools students and has served on the board since 2019, including as board chair in 2021.
Kyle Sproul is running unopposed for re-election to the Vancouver Public Schools Board Director, Position 1. She is the mother of three Vancouver Public Schools students and has served on the board since 2019, including as board chair in 2021. She is proud of her work in hiring a new superintendent and passing an equity policy for the district.
Kyle Sproul has earned your vote based on her track record in office and endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders.
Kyle Sproul
Kyle Sproul is running unopposed for re-election to the Vancouver Public Schools Board Director, Position 1. She is the mother of three Vancouver Public Schools students and has served on the board since 2019, including as board chair in 2021.
-
Express Recommendation
-
Kyle Sproul is running unopposed for re-election to the Vancouver Public Schools Board Director, Position 1. She is the mother of three Vancouver Public Schools students and has served on the board since 2019, including as board chair in 2021. She is proud of her work in hiring a new superintendent and passing an equity policy for the district.
Kyle Sproul has earned your vote based on her track record in office and endorsements from our partners and trusted community leaders.
Last updated: 2023-10-31
-
Express Recommendation -
Educator and incumbent director Kathy Decker is running for another term on the Vancouver School Board in the Position 4 seat. Decker joined the school board in 2019 and boasts more than 25 years of experience directly in teaching. She also has community leadership experience as a youth soccer coach, Girl Scouts leader, and classroom volunteer.
Decker is running to continue bringing opportunity and improvement to the school district. If re-elected, she wants to continue empowering student voices, increase board transparency, and invest in career and technical education programs. Decker believes in a research-based approach to strategically use district resources while closing the opportunity gap. In this race, she has been endorsed by local unions, Democratic groups, and education associations.
Challenging Decker in this race is Nick Wells, who works for a payroll technology company. Wells is running on a more Republican platform to limit funding to our schools and block progress in the school district.
We recommend Kathy Decker for Vancouver School Board, Position 4.
Last updated: 2023-10-25Kathy Decker
Educator and incumbent director Kathy Decker is running for another term on the Vancouver School Board in the Position 4 seat. Decker joined the school board in 2019 and boasts more than 25 years of experience directly in teaching.
Educator and incumbent director Kathy Decker is running for another term on the Vancouver School Board in the Position 4 seat. Decker joined the school board in 2019 and boasts more than 25 years of experience directly in teaching. She also has community leadership experience as a youth soccer coach, Girl Scouts leader, and classroom volunteer.
Decker is running to continue bringing opportunity and improvement to the school district. If re-elected, she wants to continue empowering student voices, increase board transparency, and invest in career and technical education programs. Decker believes in a research-based approach to strategically use district resources while closing the opportunity gap. In this race, she has been endorsed by local unions, Democratic groups, and education associations.
Challenging Decker in this race is Nick Wells, who works for a payroll technology company. Wells is running on a more Republican platform to limit funding to our schools and block progress in the school district.
We recommend Kathy Decker for Vancouver School Board, Position 4.
Kathy Decker
Educator and incumbent director Kathy Decker is running for another term on the Vancouver School Board in the Position 4 seat. Decker joined the school board in 2019 and boasts more than 25 years of experience directly in teaching.
-
Express Recommendation
-
Educator and incumbent director Kathy Decker is running for another term on the Vancouver School Board in the Position 4 seat. Decker joined the school board in 2019 and boasts more than 25 years of experience directly in teaching. She also has community leadership experience as a youth soccer coach, Girl Scouts leader, and classroom volunteer.
Decker is running to continue bringing opportunity and improvement to the school district. If re-elected, she wants to continue empowering student voices, increase board transparency, and invest in career and technical education programs. Decker believes in a research-based approach to strategically use district resources while closing the opportunity gap. In this race, she has been endorsed by local unions, Democratic groups, and education associations.
Challenging Decker in this race is Nick Wells, who works for a payroll technology company. Wells is running on a more Republican platform to limit funding to our schools and block progress in the school district.
We recommend Kathy Decker for Vancouver School Board, Position 4.
Last updated: 2023-10-25
-
Express Recommendation -
Tracie Barrows is running for re-election to Vancouver School Board, Position 5. She was first elected to to the board in 2019 and has served as the board president. She works as a school psychologist, and has worked in student behavioral health, special education, and nonviolent crisis intervention training.
Barrows believes that in order for students to find success in school, they need their basic needs met and access to social-emotional mental health resources. She is proud of the school district’s investments in the Family Community Resource Centers, career and technical education courses, and dual language programs. If re-elected, Barrows wants to continue working on equity, transparency, and engagement on the school board. She has earned strong endorsements in this race, including the local Democrats, community organizations, education unions, and elected leaders.
Larry Roe is challenging Barrows in this race. Roe has worked in scientific consulting and research as well as census enumeration. Now, he is running on a vague platform to increase student success and continue helping the district to recover from the effects of the pandemic on learning. He does not offer concrete platform ideas nor identify the top challenges students, teachers, and district staff are facing.
We recommend Tracie Barrows for another term in Vancouver School Board, Position 5.
Last updated: 2023-10-25Tracie Barrows
Tracie Barrows is running for re-election to Vancouver School Board, Position 5. She was first elected to to the board in 2019 and has served as the board president.
Tracie Barrows is running for re-election to Vancouver School Board, Position 5. She was first elected to to the board in 2019 and has served as the board president. She works as a school psychologist, and has worked in student behavioral health, special education, and nonviolent crisis intervention training.
Barrows believes that in order for students to find success in school, they need their basic needs met and access to social-emotional mental health resources. She is proud of the school district’s investments in the Family Community Resource Centers, career and technical education courses, and dual language programs. If re-elected, Barrows wants to continue working on equity, transparency, and engagement on the school board. She has earned strong endorsements in this race, including the local Democrats, community organizations, education unions, and elected leaders.
Larry Roe is challenging Barrows in this race. Roe has worked in scientific consulting and research as well as census enumeration. Now, he is running on a vague platform to increase student success and continue helping the district to recover from the effects of the pandemic on learning. He does not offer concrete platform ideas nor identify the top challenges students, teachers, and district staff are facing.
We recommend Tracie Barrows for another term in Vancouver School Board, Position 5.
Tracie Barrows
Tracie Barrows is running for re-election to Vancouver School Board, Position 5. She was first elected to to the board in 2019 and has served as the board president.
-
Express Recommendation
-
Tracie Barrows is running for re-election to Vancouver School Board, Position 5. She was first elected to to the board in 2019 and has served as the board president. She works as a school psychologist, and has worked in student behavioral health, special education, and nonviolent crisis intervention training.
Barrows believes that in order for students to find success in school, they need their basic needs met and access to social-emotional mental health resources. She is proud of the school district’s investments in the Family Community Resource Centers, career and technical education courses, and dual language programs. If re-elected, Barrows wants to continue working on equity, transparency, and engagement on the school board. She has earned strong endorsements in this race, including the local Democrats, community organizations, education unions, and elected leaders.
Larry Roe is challenging Barrows in this race. Roe has worked in scientific consulting and research as well as census enumeration. Now, he is running on a vague platform to increase student success and continue helping the district to recover from the effects of the pandemic on learning. He does not offer concrete platform ideas nor identify the top challenges students, teachers, and district staff are facing.
We recommend Tracie Barrows for another term in Vancouver School Board, Position 5.
Last updated: 2023-10-25
-
-
Ruth Ladderud is a 10 year incumbent on the Walla Walla School Board who is running to retain her seat in Position 3. Ladderud has lived most of her life in Walla Walla, and currently works as an administrative assistant at Whitman College.
Ladderud served as the school board president in 2022, the same year that Walla Walla was awarded the Washington State Board of the Year. Under her leadership, the school board successfully funded improvements to school facilities, and used pandemic relief funding to increase opportunities for students facing more barriers to education. Although the pandemic challenged classrooms across the state, Walla Walla students ended up with even stronger English and math skills thanks to the response of the board.
Walla Walla Public Schools also successfully quashed challenges by right-wing groups like Moms for Liberty, who tried to ban books that center LGBTQ+ and Black experiences. Thanks to the board's rejection of these attempts, historic and representative books will be safe from challenges for the next three years.Ladderud's opponent is Chris Leyendecker, whose official candidate statement says he has worked in various juvenile detention centers, in adult probation, and as courthouse security. He has no other campaign information available as of late October and has declined to answer local interview questions about his candidacy.
Ladderud is by far the best choice in this race.
Last updated: 2023-11-02Ruth Ladderud
Ruth Ladderud is a 10 year incumbent on the Walla Walla School Board who is running to retain her seat in Position 3. Ladderud has lived most of her life in Walla Walla, and currently works as an administrative assistant at Whitman College.
Ruth Ladderud is a 10 year incumbent on the Walla Walla School Board who is running to retain her seat in Position 3. Ladderud has lived most of her life in Walla Walla, and currently works as an administrative assistant at Whitman College.
Ladderud served as the school board president in 2022, the same year that Walla Walla was awarded the Washington State Board of the Year. Under her leadership, the school board successfully funded improvements to school facilities, and used pandemic relief funding to increase opportunities for students facing more barriers to education. Although the pandemic challenged classrooms across the state, Walla Walla students ended up with even stronger English and math skills thanks to the response of the board.
Walla Walla Public Schools also successfully quashed challenges by right-wing groups like Moms for Liberty, who tried to ban books that center LGBTQ+ and Black experiences. Thanks to the board's rejection of these attempts, historic and representative books will be safe from challenges for the next three years.Ladderud's opponent is Chris Leyendecker, whose official candidate statement says he has worked in various juvenile detention centers, in adult probation, and as courthouse security. He has no other campaign information available as of late October and has declined to answer local interview questions about his candidacy.
Ladderud is by far the best choice in this race.
Ruth Ladderud
Ruth Ladderud is a 10 year incumbent on the Walla Walla School Board who is running to retain her seat in Position 3. Ladderud has lived most of her life in Walla Walla, and currently works as an administrative assistant at Whitman College.
-
-
Ruth Ladderud is a 10 year incumbent on the Walla Walla School Board who is running to retain her seat in Position 3. Ladderud has lived most of her life in Walla Walla, and currently works as an administrative assistant at Whitman College.
Ladderud served as the school board president in 2022, the same year that Walla Walla was awarded the Washington State Board of the Year. Under her leadership, the school board successfully funded improvements to school facilities, and used pandemic relief funding to increase opportunities for students facing more barriers to education. Although the pandemic challenged classrooms across the state, Walla Walla students ended up with even stronger English and math skills thanks to the response of the board.
Walla Walla Public Schools also successfully quashed challenges by right-wing groups like Moms for Liberty, who tried to ban books that center LGBTQ+ and Black experiences. Thanks to the board's rejection of these attempts, historic and representative books will be safe from challenges for the next three years.Ladderud's opponent is Chris Leyendecker, whose official candidate statement says he has worked in various juvenile detention centers, in adult probation, and as courthouse security. He has no other campaign information available as of late October and has declined to answer local interview questions about his candidacy.
Ladderud is by far the best choice in this race.
Last updated: 2023-11-02
-
-
Alayna Marie Brinton is running for Walla Walla School Board, Position 4, after incumbent Eric Rindal lost in the primary election. She is the chair of the board of the Blue Mountain Health Cooperative and serves on the Walla Walla Community Health Advisory Board.
Brinton is running to improve local schools by implementing innovative teaching methods and ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. If elected, she would work to improve transparency between the board, parents, and students and she would prioritize improving access to mental health care.
Brinton is running against conservative Dr. Zana Carver, who does not have a website or campaign platform publicly available as of mid-October. Carver also ran in 2021 and lost to the current board vice president, Kathy Mulkerin. While she is thin on details, Carver's goals are aligned with groups that want to take away a historically accurate curriculum and ban books from school libraries.
Brinton's record of serving the community and strong endorsements make her the clear choice for Position 4 on the Walla Walla School Board.Last updated: 2023-10-20Alayna Marie Brinton
Alayna Marie Brinton is running for Walla Walla School Board, Position 4, after incumbent Eric Rindal lost in the primary election. She is the chair of the board of the Blue Mountain Health Cooperative and serves on the Walla Walla Community Health Advisory Board.
Alayna Marie Brinton is running for Walla Walla School Board, Position 4, after incumbent Eric Rindal lost in the primary election. She is the chair of the board of the Blue Mountain Health Cooperative and serves on the Walla Walla Community Health Advisory Board.
Brinton is running to improve local schools by implementing innovative teaching methods and ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. If elected, she would work to improve transparency between the board, parents, and students and she would prioritize improving access to mental health care.
Brinton is running against conservative Dr. Zana Carver, who does not have a website or campaign platform publicly available as of mid-October. Carver also ran in 2021 and lost to the current board vice president, Kathy Mulkerin. While she is thin on details, Carver's goals are aligned with groups that want to take away a historically accurate curriculum and ban books from school libraries.
Brinton's record of serving the community and strong endorsements make her the clear choice for Position 4 on the Walla Walla School Board.Alayna Marie Brinton
Alayna Marie Brinton is running for Walla Walla School Board, Position 4, after incumbent Eric Rindal lost in the primary election. She is the chair of the board of the Blue Mountain Health Cooperative and serves on the Walla Walla Community Health Advisory Board.
-
-
Alayna Marie Brinton is running for Walla Walla School Board, Position 4, after incumbent Eric Rindal lost in the primary election. She is the chair of the board of the Blue Mountain Health Cooperative and serves on the Walla Walla Community Health Advisory Board.
Brinton is running to improve local schools by implementing innovative teaching methods and ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. If elected, she would work to improve transparency between the board, parents, and students and she would prioritize improving access to mental health care.
Brinton is running against conservative Dr. Zana Carver, who does not have a website or campaign platform publicly available as of mid-October. Carver also ran in 2021 and lost to the current board vice president, Kathy Mulkerin. While she is thin on details, Carver's goals are aligned with groups that want to take away a historically accurate curriculum and ban books from school libraries.
Brinton's record of serving the community and strong endorsements make her the clear choice for Position 4 on the Walla Walla School Board.Last updated: 2023-10-20
-
-
Derek Sarley is running for a third term on the Walla Walla School Board, Position 5. He is also the vice president of the Washington State School Directors Association and volunteers with the Blue Mountain Girls Softball Association.
Sarley worked collaboratively to help navigate the district through the turbulent times of the pandemic. He's proud of his record of using federal recovery funding to expand after-school learning and provide students with more mental health support to improve academic recovery. He also supported the freedom of parents and students to choose what to read after a small effort in 2022 to ban certain books from the school library. He's running for re-election to improve community connections and establish new five-year goals for the district.
Sarley is running a non-political campaign against far-right conservative Kirk Jameson. He was previously an instructor and more recently worked as a district administrator. In 2018, Jameson resigned as principal of College Place High School after he was the subject of a host of complaints. The Union-Bulletin reported that a "packed room of people spent more than two hours detailing their issues with [Jameson], ranging from free-speech violations to unequal treatment for Latino students to policies weighted against Latino and lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender students."] In addition, a school survey found that two-thirds of his staff felt unsafe at work, and some said he asked them about their religion or place of worship.
More recently, Jameson has shared conspiracy theories about overturning the will of the voters in the 2020 election and the pandemic. His public statements make it clear he is unfit to play a leadership role in the Walla Walla School District.
Sarley's experience and non-political agenda make him the clear choice for Walla Walla School Board, Position 5.Last updated: 2023-10-20Derek Sarley
Derek Sarley is running for a third term on the Walla Walla School Board, Position 5. He is also the vice president of the Washington State School Directors Association and volunteers with the Blue Mountain Girls Softball Association.
Derek Sarley is running for a third term on the Walla Walla School Board, Position 5. He is also the vice president of the Washington State School Directors Association and volunteers with the Blue Mountain Girls Softball Association.
Sarley worked collaboratively to help navigate the district through the turbulent times of the pandemic. He's proud of his record of using federal recovery funding to expand after-school learning and provide students with more mental health support to improve academic recovery. He also supported the freedom of parents and students to choose what to read after a small effort in 2022 to ban certain books from the school library. He's running for re-election to improve community connections and establish new five-year goals for the district.
Sarley is running a non-political campaign against far-right conservative Kirk Jameson. He was previously an instructor and more recently worked as a district administrator. In 2018, Jameson resigned as principal of College Place High School after he was the subject of a host of complaints. The Union-Bulletin reported that a "packed room of people spent more than two hours detailing their issues with [Jameson], ranging from free-speech violations to unequal treatment for Latino students to policies weighted against Latino and lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender students."] In addition, a school survey found that two-thirds of his staff felt unsafe at work, and some said he asked them about their religion or place of worship.
More recently, Jameson has shared conspiracy theories about overturning the will of the voters in the 2020 election and the pandemic. His public statements make it clear he is unfit to play a leadership role in the Walla Walla School District.
Sarley's experience and non-political agenda make him the clear choice for Walla Walla School Board, Position 5.Derek Sarley
Derek Sarley is running for a third term on the Walla Walla School Board, Position 5. He is also the vice president of the Washington State School Directors Association and volunteers with the Blue Mountain Girls Softball Association.
-
-
Derek Sarley is running for a third term on the Walla Walla School Board, Position 5. He is also the vice president of the Washington State School Directors Association and volunteers with the Blue Mountain Girls Softball Association.
Sarley worked collaboratively to help navigate the district through the turbulent times of the pandemic. He's proud of his record of using federal recovery funding to expand after-school learning and provide students with more mental health support to improve academic recovery. He also supported the freedom of parents and students to choose what to read after a small effort in 2022 to ban certain books from the school library. He's running for re-election to improve community connections and establish new five-year goals for the district.
Sarley is running a non-political campaign against far-right conservative Kirk Jameson. He was previously an instructor and more recently worked as a district administrator. In 2018, Jameson resigned as principal of College Place High School after he was the subject of a host of complaints. The Union-Bulletin reported that a "packed room of people spent more than two hours detailing their issues with [Jameson], ranging from free-speech violations to unequal treatment for Latino students to policies weighted against Latino and lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender students."] In addition, a school survey found that two-thirds of his staff felt unsafe at work, and some said he asked them about their religion or place of worship.
More recently, Jameson has shared conspiracy theories about overturning the will of the voters in the 2020 election and the pandemic. His public statements make it clear he is unfit to play a leadership role in the Walla Walla School District.
Sarley's experience and non-political agenda make him the clear choice for Walla Walla School Board, Position 5.Last updated: 2023-10-20
-
-
Current board president Maria Iñiguez is running for another term on the Wenatchee School Board in Director District 2. Iñiguez has spent nearly two decades working in education, and she currently serves as the executive assistant to the president of Wenatchee Valley College. She joined the board in 2020 and is an active community volunteer with a number of local organizations including the school district’s college mentor program, the state’s Latino Civic Alliance, and the Community For the Advancement of Education.
Iñiguez’s campaign is focused on ensuring that all students can access the resources they need to thrive, regardless of background and identity. As a bilingual child of immigrants, she has a unique vantage point to understand equity within schools. Iñiguez specifically wants to use a data-driven approach to close opportunity gaps and increase the overall academic success of the district. Her experience in education and on the school board set her apart from her opponent and better position her to face the challenges in Wenatchee schools.
Challenging Iñiguez in this race is Randy Smith, a former business owner and local youth sports coach. Smith appears to be a more conservative candidate. His campaign is focused on a lack of student achievement in the district, but his platform offers no solutions to give students the resources they need to succeed.
We recommend Maria Iñiguez for Wenatchee School Board, Director District 2 to continue bringing her education expertise, equity lens, and community leadership to the board.
Last updated: 2023-10-19Maria Iñiguez
Current board president Maria Iñiguez is running for another term on the Wenatchee School Board in Director District 2. Iñiguez has spent nearly two decades working in education, and she currently serves as the executive assistant to the president of Wenatchee Valley College.
Current board president Maria Iñiguez is running for another term on the Wenatchee School Board in Director District 2. Iñiguez has spent nearly two decades working in education, and she currently serves as the executive assistant to the president of Wenatchee Valley College. She joined the board in 2020 and is an active community volunteer with a number of local organizations including the school district’s college mentor program, the state’s Latino Civic Alliance, and the Community For the Advancement of Education.
Iñiguez’s campaign is focused on ensuring that all students can access the resources they need to thrive, regardless of background and identity. As a bilingual child of immigrants, she has a unique vantage point to understand equity within schools. Iñiguez specifically wants to use a data-driven approach to close opportunity gaps and increase the overall academic success of the district. Her experience in education and on the school board set her apart from her opponent and better position her to face the challenges in Wenatchee schools.
Challenging Iñiguez in this race is Randy Smith, a former business owner and local youth sports coach. Smith appears to be a more conservative candidate. His campaign is focused on a lack of student achievement in the district, but his platform offers no solutions to give students the resources they need to succeed.
We recommend Maria Iñiguez for Wenatchee School Board, Director District 2 to continue bringing her education expertise, equity lens, and community leadership to the board.
Maria Iñiguez
Current board president Maria Iñiguez is running for another term on the Wenatchee School Board in Director District 2. Iñiguez has spent nearly two decades working in education, and she currently serves as the executive assistant to the president of Wenatchee Valley College.
-
-
Current board president Maria Iñiguez is running for another term on the Wenatchee School Board in Director District 2. Iñiguez has spent nearly two decades working in education, and she currently serves as the executive assistant to the president of Wenatchee Valley College. She joined the board in 2020 and is an active community volunteer with a number of local organizations including the school district’s college mentor program, the state’s Latino Civic Alliance, and the Community For the Advancement of Education.
Iñiguez’s campaign is focused on ensuring that all students can access the resources they need to thrive, regardless of background and identity. As a bilingual child of immigrants, she has a unique vantage point to understand equity within schools. Iñiguez specifically wants to use a data-driven approach to close opportunity gaps and increase the overall academic success of the district. Her experience in education and on the school board set her apart from her opponent and better position her to face the challenges in Wenatchee schools.
Challenging Iñiguez in this race is Randy Smith, a former business owner and local youth sports coach. Smith appears to be a more conservative candidate. His campaign is focused on a lack of student achievement in the district, but his platform offers no solutions to give students the resources they need to succeed.
We recommend Maria Iñiguez for Wenatchee School Board, Director District 2 to continue bringing her education expertise, equity lens, and community leadership to the board.
Last updated: 2023-10-19
-
-
Tucker Jackson is running unopposed for Wenatchee School Board, Director District 3. The seat is currently held by Martin Barron, who is running in District 5 after last year's reorganization of districts. Jackson has worked in a number of industries, including construction, marketing, consulting, academia, and farming. He serves the community as both a PTSA president for a local elementary and as a youth soccer coach.
Jackson believes that Wenatchee is a wonderful place to grow up and should be an equally great place to get an education. He wants to invest in students, teachers, and school infrastructure so that all students can access the resources they need to thrive.
We recommend Tucker Jackson for Wenatchee School Board, Director District 3.
Last updated: 2023-10-17Tucker Jackson
Tucker Jackson is running unopposed for Wenatchee School Board, Director District 3. The seat is currently held by Martin Barron, who is running in District 5 after last year's reorganization of districts.
Tucker Jackson is running unopposed for Wenatchee School Board, Director District 3. The seat is currently held by Martin Barron, who is running in District 5 after last year's reorganization of districts. Jackson has worked in a number of industries, including construction, marketing, consulting, academia, and farming. He serves the community as both a PTSA president for a local elementary and as a youth soccer coach.
Jackson believes that Wenatchee is a wonderful place to grow up and should be an equally great place to get an education. He wants to invest in students, teachers, and school infrastructure so that all students can access the resources they need to thrive.
We recommend Tucker Jackson for Wenatchee School Board, Director District 3.
Tucker Jackson
Tucker Jackson is running unopposed for Wenatchee School Board, Director District 3. The seat is currently held by Martin Barron, who is running in District 5 after last year's reorganization of districts.
-
-
Tucker Jackson is running unopposed for Wenatchee School Board, Director District 3. The seat is currently held by Martin Barron, who is running in District 5 after last year's reorganization of districts. Jackson has worked in a number of industries, including construction, marketing, consulting, academia, and farming. He serves the community as both a PTSA president for a local elementary and as a youth soccer coach.
Jackson believes that Wenatchee is a wonderful place to grow up and should be an equally great place to get an education. He wants to invest in students, teachers, and school infrastructure so that all students can access the resources they need to thrive.
We recommend Tucker Jackson for Wenatchee School Board, Director District 3.
Last updated: 2023-10-17
-
-
Miranda Skalisky is running for Wenatchee School Board in District 4. Skalisky holds a master's degree in human services, and currently works investigating the abuse of elderly and disabled residents. She previously worked in the court and detention system, did community outreach for the local police department, and volunteered with multiple nonprofits and community groups.
If elected, Skalisky wants to make sure the board manages their budget to keep funding the necessary resources for students and families. She wants to increase community outreach and multilingual communication to Wenatchee's diverse immigrant population, and would work on connecting families to transportation, housing, and other resources. She also supports expanding the rich curriculum in schools, providing more diverse opportunities for students with varying goals in life.
When asked about progressives' possible concerns over her close ties to law enforcement, Skalisky said she hopes her volunteer work has shown her dedication to the community. Making schools more inclusive is a top priority for her, as she has observed how students of color and working class kids are misrepresented by parents and leadership. She hopes that we can create safety and acceptance for students of all backgrounds at school.
The other candidate in this race is Kendra Martin. Martin recently left her job at Wenatchee High School, where she worked in nutrition services and as an executive assistant. She holds a master's degree in secondary education.
Martin's platform has some positive points - she criticizes the overuse of standardized testing on students, wants school administration to create a more supportive work environment for staff, and supports an equal education for kids of all different backgrounds.
However, Martin has some red flags that align with the views of right-wing groups that are active in our local school board races. She emphasizes "parental rights" and would support opt-out processes for curriculum, arguments that conservatives use to ban books and oppose comprehensive sex education. She also thinks schools have an obligation to report students' "insecurities around any number of factors" to parents, which may indicate that she would require teachers to report kids who are questioning their gender or sexuality. Martin has also criticized the teachers' unions and schools for not appreciating "differing opinions."
Martin has raised no funds and has no campaign website as of October.
Skalisky has earned endorsements from many educators' groups and progressive organizations. She is the best choice in this race.
Last updated: 2023-10-17Miranda Skalisky
Miranda Skalisky is running for Wenatchee School Board in District 4. Skalisky holds a master's degree in human services, and currently works investigating the abuse of elderly and disabled residents.
Miranda Skalisky is running for Wenatchee School Board in District 4. Skalisky holds a master's degree in human services, and currently works investigating the abuse of elderly and disabled residents. She previously worked in the court and detention system, did community outreach for the local police department, and volunteered with multiple nonprofits and community groups.
If elected, Skalisky wants to make sure the board manages their budget to keep funding the necessary resources for students and families. She wants to increase community outreach and multilingual communication to Wenatchee's diverse immigrant population, and would work on connecting families to transportation, housing, and other resources. She also supports expanding the rich curriculum in schools, providing more diverse opportunities for students with varying goals in life.
When asked about progressives' possible concerns over her close ties to law enforcement, Skalisky said she hopes her volunteer work has shown her dedication to the community. Making schools more inclusive is a top priority for her, as she has observed how students of color and working class kids are misrepresented by parents and leadership. She hopes that we can create safety and acceptance for students of all backgrounds at school.
The other candidate in this race is Kendra Martin. Martin recently left her job at Wenatchee High School, where she worked in nutrition services and as an executive assistant. She holds a master's degree in secondary education.
Martin's platform has some positive points - she criticizes the overuse of standardized testing on students, wants school administration to create a more supportive work environment for staff, and supports an equal education for kids of all different backgrounds.
However, Martin has some red flags that align with the views of right-wing groups that are active in our local school board races. She emphasizes "parental rights" and would support opt-out processes for curriculum, arguments that conservatives use to ban books and oppose comprehensive sex education. She also thinks schools have an obligation to report students' "insecurities around any number of factors" to parents, which may indicate that she would require teachers to report kids who are questioning their gender or sexuality. Martin has also criticized the teachers' unions and schools for not appreciating "differing opinions."
Martin has raised no funds and has no campaign website as of October.
Skalisky has earned endorsements from many educators' groups and progressive organizations. She is the best choice in this race.
Miranda Skalisky
Miranda Skalisky is running for Wenatchee School Board in District 4. Skalisky holds a master's degree in human services, and currently works investigating the abuse of elderly and disabled residents.
-
-
Miranda Skalisky is running for Wenatchee School Board in District 4. Skalisky holds a master's degree in human services, and currently works investigating the abuse of elderly and disabled residents. She previously worked in the court and detention system, did community outreach for the local police department, and volunteered with multiple nonprofits and community groups.
If elected, Skalisky wants to make sure the board manages their budget to keep funding the necessary resources for students and families. She wants to increase community outreach and multilingual communication to Wenatchee's diverse immigrant population, and would work on connecting families to transportation, housing, and other resources. She also supports expanding the rich curriculum in schools, providing more diverse opportunities for students with varying goals in life.
When asked about progressives' possible concerns over her close ties to law enforcement, Skalisky said she hopes her volunteer work has shown her dedication to the community. Making schools more inclusive is a top priority for her, as she has observed how students of color and working class kids are misrepresented by parents and leadership. She hopes that we can create safety and acceptance for students of all backgrounds at school.
The other candidate in this race is Kendra Martin. Martin recently left her job at Wenatchee High School, where she worked in nutrition services and as an executive assistant. She holds a master's degree in secondary education.
Martin's platform has some positive points - she criticizes the overuse of standardized testing on students, wants school administration to create a more supportive work environment for staff, and supports an equal education for kids of all different backgrounds.
However, Martin has some red flags that align with the views of right-wing groups that are active in our local school board races. She emphasizes "parental rights" and would support opt-out processes for curriculum, arguments that conservatives use to ban books and oppose comprehensive sex education. She also thinks schools have an obligation to report students' "insecurities around any number of factors" to parents, which may indicate that she would require teachers to report kids who are questioning their gender or sexuality. Martin has also criticized the teachers' unions and schools for not appreciating "differing opinions."
Martin has raised no funds and has no campaign website as of October.
Skalisky has earned endorsements from many educators' groups and progressive organizations. She is the best choice in this race.
Last updated: 2023-10-17
-
-
Martin Barron is running to keep his seat on the Wenatchee School Board in District 5. Barron was born in Zimbabwe and has worked in multiple countries as a chemical engineer, business manager, and economist. He is a long-time volunteer in Wenatchee schools, and has seen all four of his children graduate from the public school system. Barron has served on the school board since 2019, and was the board president in 2022.
If re-elected, Barron would work on adjusting to the budget challenges caused by the end of pandemic-era funding and declining numbers of students. He advocated for the introduction of financial literacy into the curriculum, and wants to make sure students are further prepared for the future world by improving classroom technology and including education on subjects like artificial intelligence. Barron also wants to make updates to the math program, add more classroom time into the school year, and include more youth voices in decision-making.
Unlike his opponent, Barron supports efforts to make our schools more inclusive and equitable. He serves on the State Advisory Committee for Migrant Education, and his fluency in Spanish has allowed him to meet with immigrant families that often lack the access to advocate for their kids. Barron wants to increase the diversity of teachers in classrooms and continue to make all kinds of books available to students. He opposes the small group of candidates who are making our schools and libraries a playing field for their political agendas.
Barron's opponent in this race is Tricia Cleek, a conservative Christian nurse who is running to represent District 5 on the Wenatchee School Board. Cleek is aligned with the far-right group Moms for Liberty, whose members want to ban books from school libraries, eliminate comprehensive sex education, and change school curriculums to match their conservative political agenda. She is also recommended by the Family Policy Institute, a far-right Christian interest group that wants to enforce "Biblical values" in our public schools. Cleek is a mother of three who chose to homeschool her kids instead of sending them to the schools that she now wants to represent.
In a meeting hosted by Moms for Liberty and the Republican Women's Club, Cleek railed against critical race theory and attempts to make schools more inclusive for students of color, saying they give students a "victim mentality." She also made transphobic comments, and called for stricter discipline and dress code enforcements for young girls.
Our students deserve a quality education free from the politicization of a small group of far-right activists. Cleek would be a major step in the wrong direction for Wenatchee's school board. Martin Barron deserves your vote to keep our school board focused on our kids.
Last updated: 2023-10-17Martin Barron
Martin Barron is running to keep his seat on the Wenatchee School Board in District 5. Barron was born in Zimbabwe and has worked in multiple countries as a chemical engineer, business manager, and economist.
Martin Barron is running to keep his seat on the Wenatchee School Board in District 5. Barron was born in Zimbabwe and has worked in multiple countries as a chemical engineer, business manager, and economist. He is a long-time volunteer in Wenatchee schools, and has seen all four of his children graduate from the public school system. Barron has served on the school board since 2019, and was the board president in 2022.
If re-elected, Barron would work on adjusting to the budget challenges caused by the end of pandemic-era funding and declining numbers of students. He advocated for the introduction of financial literacy into the curriculum, and wants to make sure students are further prepared for the future world by improving classroom technology and including education on subjects like artificial intelligence. Barron also wants to make updates to the math program, add more classroom time into the school year, and include more youth voices in decision-making.
Unlike his opponent, Barron supports efforts to make our schools more inclusive and equitable. He serves on the State Advisory Committee for Migrant Education, and his fluency in Spanish has allowed him to meet with immigrant families that often lack the access to advocate for their kids. Barron wants to increase the diversity of teachers in classrooms and continue to make all kinds of books available to students. He opposes the small group of candidates who are making our schools and libraries a playing field for their political agendas.
Barron's opponent in this race is Tricia Cleek, a conservative Christian nurse who is running to represent District 5 on the Wenatchee School Board. Cleek is aligned with the far-right group Moms for Liberty, whose members want to ban books from school libraries, eliminate comprehensive sex education, and change school curriculums to match their conservative political agenda. She is also recommended by the Family Policy Institute, a far-right Christian interest group that wants to enforce "Biblical values" in our public schools. Cleek is a mother of three who chose to homeschool her kids instead of sending them to the schools that she now wants to represent.
In a meeting hosted by Moms for Liberty and the Republican Women's Club, Cleek railed against critical race theory and attempts to make schools more inclusive for students of color, saying they give students a "victim mentality." She also made transphobic comments, and called for stricter discipline and dress code enforcements for young girls.
Our students deserve a quality education free from the politicization of a small group of far-right activists. Cleek would be a major step in the wrong direction for Wenatchee's school board. Martin Barron deserves your vote to keep our school board focused on our kids.
Martin Barron
Martin Barron is running to keep his seat on the Wenatchee School Board in District 5. Barron was born in Zimbabwe and has worked in multiple countries as a chemical engineer, business manager, and economist.
-
-
Martin Barron is running to keep his seat on the Wenatchee School Board in District 5. Barron was born in Zimbabwe and has worked in multiple countries as a chemical engineer, business manager, and economist. He is a long-time volunteer in Wenatchee schools, and has seen all four of his children graduate from the public school system. Barron has served on the school board since 2019, and was the board president in 2022.
If re-elected, Barron would work on adjusting to the budget challenges caused by the end of pandemic-era funding and declining numbers of students. He advocated for the introduction of financial literacy into the curriculum, and wants to make sure students are further prepared for the future world by improving classroom technology and including education on subjects like artificial intelligence. Barron also wants to make updates to the math program, add more classroom time into the school year, and include more youth voices in decision-making.
Unlike his opponent, Barron supports efforts to make our schools more inclusive and equitable. He serves on the State Advisory Committee for Migrant Education, and his fluency in Spanish has allowed him to meet with immigrant families that often lack the access to advocate for their kids. Barron wants to increase the diversity of teachers in classrooms and continue to make all kinds of books available to students. He opposes the small group of candidates who are making our schools and libraries a playing field for their political agendas.
Barron's opponent in this race is Tricia Cleek, a conservative Christian nurse who is running to represent District 5 on the Wenatchee School Board. Cleek is aligned with the far-right group Moms for Liberty, whose members want to ban books from school libraries, eliminate comprehensive sex education, and change school curriculums to match their conservative political agenda. She is also recommended by the Family Policy Institute, a far-right Christian interest group that wants to enforce "Biblical values" in our public schools. Cleek is a mother of three who chose to homeschool her kids instead of sending them to the schools that she now wants to represent.
In a meeting hosted by Moms for Liberty and the Republican Women's Club, Cleek railed against critical race theory and attempts to make schools more inclusive for students of color, saying they give students a "victim mentality." She also made transphobic comments, and called for stricter discipline and dress code enforcements for young girls.
Our students deserve a quality education free from the politicization of a small group of far-right activists. Cleek would be a major step in the wrong direction for Wenatchee's school board. Martin Barron deserves your vote to keep our school board focused on our kids.
Last updated: 2023-10-17
Customizing the Progressive Voters Guide for your location...
Customizing the Progressive Voters Guide for your location...