Voter Guide Piece

Education: Bachelors of Arts in Mathematics and Computer Science, Yale University 1995

Job: Consulting Systems Software Engineer Dell/EMC

Seattle Public Schools face large budget, equity, capacity and instructional challenges.  As a parent of two children with different needs and eight years of direct experience with SPS,  I am running to help build a better system for all our students, families and teachers.

My Focus:

Consistency: Too much varies between school buildings. Families need stronger guarantees each child’s core experience.  Everything from whether there is a full-time librarian, to how much time for lunch, to access to instrumental music and advanced learning depends on a student’s address.

Openness: Central staff have made strides in engaging with the community but significant district decisions still happen quickly, without adequate explanation or fully examining possible alternatives. I will demand greater authentic engagement.

Family Services: From smaller tasks like registering for schools to major challenges like finding how to get services for a struggling student, our district needs to remove barriers.  As a parent within the Special Education system, I know personally how hard it is to navigate SPS.

Excellence & Equity: We should meet students where they are and provide opportunities for continual growth. We need to build a strong differentiated curriculum and ensure opportunities at every building to participate in activities that kindle students’ passions in arts, sports, clubs and academics. The district is rich in diversity; 53 percent are students of color. If we address gaps in opportunity we will help solve gaps in outcomes. I am committed to both.

School Experience:  5 years running elementary and middle school math clubs,  served 2 years on JAMS PTSA Board as Parent Representative for Building Leadership Team responsible for budget, school improvement plans and professional development.

Early Endorsements: Seattle School Board VP Rick Burke, former Board President Sue Peters, JAMS PTSA President Kathy Gerke, Public Education Advocate Kellie LaRue.