I grew up here, and I am a graduate of the Renton School District. My experience as a student inspired me to explore a career in teaching, and my experience living in Renton inspired me to run for school board. 

A key indicator of a healthy community is the well-being of its young people. The more engaged a student (and their family) are in the educational system, the better the outcomes are – not just for students and their families, but for the greater community.

I know that our school board is working to solve many complex and mounting challenges, but my concern, and the motivation for my campaign for Renton School District Director, Position 5, is the lack of transparency, the breakdown in communication, and the increasingly adversarial relationship between the school board and the community. It doesn’t have to be this way. 

When elected, my focus will be on supporting measures with the greatest impact on student success, ensuring district staff have the resources they need, and that the community has a voice at every meeting, influence at every deliberation, and a clear understanding of every decision that is made.

I believe strongly in the value of public schools. Every child should have access to a high-quality education that broadens their mind, prepares them for their chosen career, and empowers them as community members in our democracy. Every child deserves the chance to succeed, and my goal is to ensure our children have access to the opportunities they need to thrive.

At my children's elementary school I've collaborated with parents and school staff to develop initiatives that enhanced the educational experience for all students. I serve on the Renton Council PTA Board engaging with the broader community, addressing district-wide issues, and advocating for policies that support student achievement and well-being. I've seen firsthand the impact of parent and community involvement in ensuring the educational success of our children.

We are in uncertain times and face unprecedented challenges. I believe we should and can meet these challenges without sacrificing our community values. Working together we'll create a supportive and resilient environment allowing our children to thrive. I'm a proud product of public schools and a parent of Renton School District students.

Endorsements: State Representatives Steve Bergquist, My-Linh Thai; 11th & 41st Legislative District Democrats, King County Democrats, King County Young Democrats