I  taught music in the Federal Way School District for 27 years and recently retired. I am proud of the 24 years spent at Decatur High School where we built and maintained one of the most successful Choir and Orchestra programs in the region. I am most proud of the thousands of lives I touched through this sacred art of music making. That being said, I am concerned about the direction the district has taken. I am concerned about school safety for all students and staff. I believe some of our school's are vulnerable. I am concerned about fiscal mismanagement. Even in the lean times before McCleary we almost always operated with a surplus. In recent years we have become bloated at the administrative level and this year alone we are facing a 5 million dollar shortfall. I am concerned that fiscal mismanagement has resulted in the reduction of vital programs most notably, music programs that have been reduced or eliminated in many of our schools. I am concerned about outside influence from interest groups like Stand Up Federal Way. I believe their agenda has a pernicious effect on many of our students and adversely affects how we operate.

Federal Way Public Schools are facing challenges but we can do better for our students. In reading, just over half of our students are at grade level and only a third are on track for college level learning. The way forward is to keep the focus on equipping students to succeed. That starts with reading.

Demonstrating accountability and transparency to students, their families and the community we will see greater cooperation and results. Working together with parents and caregivers is key. I’ve seen the dedicated volunteers in our community organizations like Federal Way Cares for Kids, World Vision and the PTA.

Nearly one third of FWPS students who are English Language Learners. I spent years of my childhood in Mexico studying in my second language, Spanish. My children went through the dual language (English-Spanish) program at Sunnycrest Elementary school here in Federal Way. I was a regular volunteer and leader in the PTA. They also attended Adelaide Elementary, FWPA and Running Start through Federal Way High School. I look forward to being a small part in many more K-12 success stories.

Please vote for me so I can represent you on the Federal Way School Board.