As a parent of a toddler and SPS kindergartener, I am personally invested in sustainable programs that support all of our students. Coming from a family of educators, and with teaching experience of my own, I bring a practical foundation in education, paired with expertise in data science to drive data-informed school board decisions. 

Seattle faces a real problem with equity. The closure plan and waitlist policy were attempts to address equity, but not the solutions we need. We need to invest in under-resourced neighborhood schools and increase access to option schools. Every family deserves an appealing local school, and we must preserve the unique learning settings offered across the district. To support these programs and the educators who make them happen, we must advocate for more progressive revenue.

We must invest in an ecosystem of safety for our students. Students fought for city funding for mental health, and we need to partner with the city in providing mental health counselors, safe infrastructure and transit, and affordable housing. Our schools should be anchors of community in addition to places of instruction. While technology can enhance learning, I value human connection as core to education. 

Last year’s closure plan clearly demonstrated the need for transparency and accountability in our district, which I have the skillset to deliver. We must engage with and listen to Seattle’s diverse communities and the student voices clearly expressing their needs. All data carries bias; we must anchor our decisions in lived experiences and use real data to advance real equity in SPS.

The statements I offer represent my own personal views. I am speaking for myself and not on behalf of my employer, Microsoft Corporation.

Endorsements: The Stranger, King County Democrats, Seattle Education Association, Alliance for Gun Responsibility, Tech4Housing, School Board Director Michelle Sarju

Students deserve leaders who listen and are proactive in their decision-making. I am that leader. As an alumna of Seattle Public Schools (Garfield graduate), former foster child, woman of color, and daughter of working-class parents, I know the barriers students face in SPS. I am committed to fighting for the success and safety of all our students.

My lived experience, Buddhist practice, education, including the systemic racism and trauma I’ve had to overcome, guide my approach on the board. I’ve dedicated my life to the fight for real equity for students and educators. I believe in collaboration and have worked with and for diverse communities, including progressive think tanks, advocacy organizations, labor, and the business community.

After years of watching SPS decline, I knew I had to act. From the day I joined the Board in April 2024, I committed to listening to community. I was the first Board member to speak out against the district’s misguided school closure plan and have been leading on restoring the fiscal oversight so we can fix the budget and ensure resources reach students in the classroom.

SPS is not in a good place. I am the district 2 candidate who can best deliver the changes students and parents want and need. I have an MA in education policy and experience to know what’s needed to turn SPS around.The status quo created a $100M budget crisis, declining enrollment and academic rigor, increased inequities, and unsafe schools. This is unacceptable. I will partner with community, restore public confidence and financial oversight, and fight for safer schools. I humbly ask for your vote, let’s work together for our kids.

Endorsements:

The Seattle Building Trades, Seattle Times, 32nd District Dems, 36th District Dems, 46th District Dems, King County Dems, and 10 current and former school board members