I believe in public schools. I believe in the Vashon community. I also believe that (despite politicians' self-serving rhetoric) we can’t count on the state to fully fund public education.

Therefore, we'll have to keep making compromises. But let's not compromise our belief that every kid should feel safe going to school. We can't stop all bullying, but we should certainly keep trying. Let's make sure that our curriculum keeps space for the things that make a Vashon education special and for teachers to pursue their interests and passions. Let's also make sure there’s enough maintenance money to protect the public’s investment in our buildings and grounds

And let's remember whom we represent. All the people who live on Vashon vote on our levies, elect our school board members, pay taxes that support our schools. They're all our "stakeholders." As board members, we should keep that in mind.

During my 12 years on the Vashon School Board, our community built a new high school, a track and field and updated all three schools for generations. We completed these projects on time and on budget. We updated curriculum, stabilized district finances and eliminated student program fees, which hurt low income families most. We did this while keeping tax rates essentially flat.

The greatest challenge our community faces is maintaining great schools, parks and emergency services while being affordable for all families, many of whom who have lived here for generations. My wife and I raised three kids on Vashon, and we know many seniors, families and teachers who are struggling to keep up with the booming regional economy.

In my time on the school board I sought to be a leader who listens and asks good questions. I have more to contribute and ask for your vote.