ESD 112 Educational Service Agency

Which of the following were part of your own K-12 schooling? (Check all that apply.)

Music, Theatre

Which of these arts did you experience outside the K-12 school day? (Check all that apply.)

Dance

How did your experiences with the arts impact your education, or your life after high school?

• As a former home educator, I shared my love of music and theatre with my children throughout their learning journey. They started piano lessons when they were young and joined a children’s theater company. The years they spent discovering and growing their love for the arts are some of our family’s most treasured memories.

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider implementing? (Check all that would you would pursue.)

Attend events for our K-12 visual and/or performing arts programs, Develop or update a district level arts plan, Explore opportunities for CTE and Arts Education, Seek out insights from local PTAs, Booster Clubs, and/or arts organizations, Study Washington’s arts requirements in depth to ensure effective implimentation

What strengths or challenges are unique to your school district's arts programming, and what would you like voters to know about your perspective on them?

Battle Ground School District offers programs in music, theatre and visual arts, but a double levy failure led to drastic budget cuts that now limit student access to choir, art instruction, and supplies. Currently, only one high school choir remains, middle school vocal music is discontinued, and art resource gaps have widened due to staff reductions, fewer materials, and fewer advanced or inclusive opportunities, despite ongoing district art shows and grade-level offerings. I believe arts education helps children have a better appreciation of the human experience, while creative expression through the arts often leads to improved mental wellbeing, social development, and self-awareness.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your vision for supporting arts education, or how arts education fits with your campaign as a whole?

Which of the following were part of your own K-12 schooling? (Check all that apply.)

Dance, Music, Theatre, Visual Art

Which of these arts did you experience outside the K-12 school day? (Check all that apply.)

Music

How did your experiences with the arts impact your education, or your life after high school?

• I really had limited arts education. We did not have specialists. Our gen ed teacher had to teach all subjects. Some were not able to do this well.

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider implementing? (Check all that would you would pursue.)

Attend events for our K-12 visual and/or performing arts programs, Work for a budget to financially support regular arts instruction at all schools, Develop or update a district level arts plan, Support non-arts teachers with professional development opportunities for arts inclusion, Support professional development and/or collaborative time for arts teachers, Support professional development and/or collaboration time for teaching artists, Explore opportunities for CTE and Arts Education, Study Washington’s arts requirements in depth to ensure effective implimentation

What strengths or challenges are unique to your school district's arts programming, and what would you like voters to know about your perspective on them?

We have many strengths in our arts program! We have highly talented teachers certified in their area. Our certificated contract ensures that each teacher in an area is certified to teach that subject. That way, we are sure to have the best prepared staff in those positions. I strongly support arts education. I know that the arts is often the thing that keeps students motivated to engage in school and enhances their experience!

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your vision for supporting arts education, or how arts education fits with your campaign as a whole?

I will work tirelessly to make sure all arts education is kept as a priority right along with the regular academic subjects. Arts education is essential!

Which of the following were part of your own K-12 schooling? (Check all that apply.)

Music

Which of these arts did you experience outside the K-12 school day? (Check all that apply.)

Cultural/Folk Arts, Dance, Music

How did your experiences with the arts impact your education, or your life after high school?

• I received a bachelor's in art from Southern Oregon University.

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider implementing? (Check all that would you would pursue.)

Attend events for our K-12 visual and/or performing arts programs, Research local arts programming and assess current needs, Work for a budget to financially support regular arts instruction at all schools, Develop or update a district level arts plan, Support professional development and/or collaborative time for arts teachers, Support professional development and/or collaboration time for teaching artists, Explore opportunities for CTE and Arts Education, Expand district-wide data collection for arts tracking and accountability, Seek out insights from local PTAs, Booster Clubs, and/or arts organizations, Study Washington’s arts requirements in depth to ensure effective implimentation, Support increased community involvement in volunteerism in the arts programs.

What strengths or challenges are unique to your school district's arts programming, and what would you like voters to know about your perspective on them?

Funding. Arts programs don’t get the funding that core subjects get and they are always one of the first things to go when money is tight. I would like there to be more understanding of the correlation between involvement in arts programs and increased academic success.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your vision for supporting arts education, or how arts education fits with your campaign as a whole?

I support increased CTE programs focusing on careers in artistic industries

Which of the following were part of your own K-12 schooling? (Check all that apply.)

Media Arts, Music, Theatre, Visual Art

Which of these arts did you experience outside the K-12 school day? (Check all that apply.)

Dance, Music

How did your experiences with the arts impact your education, or your life after high school?

• My mom made sure my sister and I had lots of arts exposure from an early age. I was very actively involved in high school choir and theatre. I majored in theatre in college and spent 22 of my 37 years of teaching career in the theatre classroom. I continue to be involved in community theatre and music groups and I currently serve on The Broad Strokes Project (bringing murals to the Longview community) as secretary/treasurer. I attend arts events regularly and know how important the arts are for schools and communities.

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider implementing? (Check all that would you would pursue.)

Attend events for our K-12 visual and/or performing arts programs, Research local arts programming and assess current needs, Work for a budget to financially support regular arts instruction at all schools, Create a local arts education task-force, Develop or update a district level arts plan, Support non-arts teachers with professional development opportunities for arts inclusion, Support professional development and/or collaborative time for arts teachers, Explore opportunities for CTE and Arts Education, Seek out insights from local PTAs, Booster Clubs, and/or arts organizations

What strengths or challenges are unique to your school district's arts programming, and what would you like voters to know about your perspective on them?

We have incredibly strong arts programs and the district frequently highlights them to the community, but sometimes it seems like they are the first programs on the chopping block. I think more advocacy for expansion of existing programs and education for those making decisions about course offerings might help; having been an arts teacher in this district, I have experienced firsthand how life changing involvement in the arts can be. By sharing research about the positive impact of the arts on students from preK-12, I will be an advocate for inclusion of the arts!

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your vision for supporting arts education, or how arts education fits with your campaign as a whole?

The arts are part of the core curriculum in Washington state. We have incredibly talented educators in this area and students in the arts get opportunities to not only be creative thinkers and producers, but also get to work collaboratively, stretch and strengthen critical thinking, and focus on process and product in unique ways.

Which of the following were part of your own K-12 schooling? (Check all that apply.)

Cultural/Folk Arts, Music, Theatre

Which of these arts did you experience outside the K-12 school day? (Check all that apply.)

Arts-focused Career & Technical Education

How did your experiences with the arts impact your education, or your life after high school?

• The arts played a meaningful role in shaping my creativity, discipline, and cultural perspective. Engaging with music, literature, and visual arts helped me develop critical thinking, empathy, and communication skills that have served me well throughout my education and professional life. As a first-generation immigrant, the arts also helped me connect with people from different cultures and backgrounds, which has been invaluable in my work with diverse communities and families. The creativity and collaboration I learned through the arts have strengthened my ability to problem-solve, think innovatively, and build bridges between people—skills that are essential for leadership and public service. I believe the arts are not just extracurricular—they are a vital part of a well-rounded education that inspires students to discover their gifts and express their voices.

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider implementing? (Check all that would you would pursue.)

Attend events for our K-12 visual and/or performing arts programs, Research local arts programming and assess current needs, Work for a budget to financially support regular arts instruction at all schools, Create a local arts education task-force, Develop or update a district level arts plan, Develop or expand district support for teaching artist residencies, Support non-arts teachers with professional development opportunities for arts inclusion, Support professional development and/or collaborative time for arts teachers, Support professional development and/or collaboration time for teaching artists, Explore opportunities for CTE and Arts Education, Expand district-wide data collection for arts tracking and accountability, Seek out insights from local PTAs, Booster Clubs, and/or arts organizations, Study Washington’s arts requirements in depth to ensure effective implimentation

What strengths or challenges are unique to your school district's arts programming, and what would you like voters to know about your perspective on them?

Kelso School District has a strong foundation of dedicated teachers and talented students in its arts programs. There is clear passion and creativity among our students, and the community shows pride in their performances, shows, and exhibitions. However, like many districts, Kelso faces challenges in ensuring equitable access to arts opportunities for all students, especially those from underrepresented or economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Limited resources, funding constraints, and competing academic demands can make it difficult to maintain and expand arts programs at all grade levels. I believe the arts are not optional—they are a vital part of a well-rounded education that fosters creativity, confidence, cultural understanding, and emotional well-being. As a board member, I would support: Sustaining and expanding funding for arts programs, Ensuring access and participation for all students, and Building stronger community partnerships to showcase and support the arts. I want voters to know that I see the arts as essential, not secondary, and I will advocate for policies that keep them thriving and accessible to every student in Kelso.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your vision for supporting arts education, or how arts education fits with your campaign as a whole?

Absolutely. Arts education fits naturally within my broader vision of safe, strong, and future-ready schools. I believe the arts are not just enrichment—they are essential to developing well-rounded students who can think critically, collaborate, and express themselves with confidence. Integrating arts education supports academic achievement, emotional well-being, and cultural understanding, all of which are core to helping students become positive contributors to society. As a board member, I would advocate for protecting arts programs from budget cuts, expanding access to underrepresented students, and promoting partnerships with local arts organizations to give students real-world creative opportunities. Supporting arts education aligns with my commitment to ensuring that every student in Kelso has the tools—not just to succeed academically, but to thrive as creative, confident, and compassionate individuals.

Which of the following were part of your own K-12 schooling? (Check all that apply.)

Music, Theatre, Visual Art

Which of these arts did you experience outside the K-12 school day? (Check all that apply.)

Music, Theatre

How did your experiences with the arts impact your education, or your life after high school?

• One of my core values is aesthetics. Because of this art has always been important to me. My education reinforced what was already part of who I was.

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider implementing? (Check all that would you would pursue.)

Attend events for our K-12 visual and/or performing arts programs, Work for a budget to financially support regular arts instruction at all schools, Support professional development and/or collaborative time for arts teachers, Explore opportunities for CTE and Arts Education, Support local independent art efforts for kids withing the district.

What strengths or challenges are unique to your school district's arts programming, and what would you like voters to know about your perspective on them?

Our district is very small and our budget is very tight. Unfortunately, we don’t have the resources at the moment to expand the programs. However, we’ve done pretty will with what we DO have. Our art and music programs are something we’ve worked hard to maintain. We have a large dedicated space in the high school to display student art for other student and visitors to the school to see and enjoy.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your vision for supporting arts education, or how arts education fits with your campaign as a whole?

Which of the following were part of your own K-12 schooling? (Check all that apply.)

Music

Which of these arts did you experience outside the K-12 school day? (Check all that apply.)

Music

How did your experiences with the arts impact your education, or your life after high school?

• It has provided me with lifelong satisfaction!

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider implementing? (Check all that would you would pursue.)

Attend events for our K-12 visual and/or performing arts programs, Research local arts programming and assess current needs, Work for a budget to financially support regular arts instruction at all schools, Create a local arts education task-force, Develop or update a district level arts plan, Develop or expand district support for teaching artist residencies, Support non-arts teachers with professional development opportunities for arts inclusion, Support professional development and/or collaborative time for arts teachers, Support professional development and/or collaboration time for teaching artists, Explore opportunities for CTE and Arts Education, Expand district-wide data collection for arts tracking and accountability, Seek out insights from local PTAs, Booster Clubs, and/or arts organizations, Study Washington’s arts requirements in depth to ensure effective implimentation

What strengths or challenges are unique to your school district's arts programming, and what would you like voters to know about your perspective on them?

Money is always an issue! The arts are every bit as important as academics and sports. They are essential to developing well-rounded individuals. I especially appreciate who the Mariachi Bands in our middle school and high school have included a segment of our community which previously was less visible. Every kid needs to have a skill to bolster self-esteem. For some it’s academics, for some it’s physical prowess, and for others it is artistic expression. We need to nurture all of these dimensions of human experience and expression!

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your vision for supporting arts education, or how arts education fits with your campaign as a whole?

Our community is fortunate to be the home of many artists whose works are evident throughout the Long Beach Peninsula. They actively encourage our youth to express themselves in all forms of visual, theater, and musical art. We’re a small community with big talent, and our youth have these artists available as mentors and guides.

Which of the following were part of your own K-12 schooling? (Check all that apply.)

Cultural/Folk Arts, Music

Which of these arts did you experience outside the K-12 school day? (Check all that apply.)

Cultural/Folk Arts, Music

How did your experiences with the arts impact your education, or your life after high school?

• It's something I enjoy to this day

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider implementing? (Check all that would you would pursue.)

Work for a budget to financially support regular arts instruction at all schools

What strengths or challenges are unique to your school district's arts programming, and what would you like voters to know about your perspective on them?

There are a lot of students who participate in them, it would be nice to have bigger area for them.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your vision for supporting arts education, or how arts education fits with your campaign as a whole?

It’s an outlet for expression and I want students to feel free when doing so

Which of the following were part of your own K-12 schooling? (Check all that apply.)

Dance, Music, Theatre, Visual Art

Which of these arts did you experience outside the K-12 school day? (Check all that apply.)

Cultural/Folk Arts, Music, Theatre, Visual Art

How did your experiences with the arts impact your education, or your life after high school?

• yes

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider implementing? (Check all that would you would pursue.)

Attend events for our K-12 visual and/or performing arts programs, Research local arts programming and assess current needs, Create a local arts education task-force, Develop or expand district support for teaching artist residencies, Support professional development and/or collaboration time for teaching artists

What strengths or challenges are unique to your school district's arts programming, and what would you like voters to know about your perspective on them?

Our school has an excellent staff, but small and I would expand access to the arts by working to bring in teaching artists and supporting residencies programs. I am already working in the community to raise funds to support these programs and provide in and after school classes and other opportunities for our community.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your vision for supporting arts education, or how arts education fits with your campaign as a whole?

Which of the following were part of your own K-12 schooling? (Check all that apply.)

Music

Which of these arts did you experience outside the K-12 school day? (Check all that apply.)

Music

How did your experiences with the arts impact your education, or your life after high school?

• I have always loved live music and now in my late 50's have discovered punk rock with my 14 YO daughter. We have been to a few shows, even went into the pit! I love the freedom and the honesty of it.

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider implementing? (Check all that would you would pursue.)

Attend events for our K-12 visual and/or performing arts programs, Work for a budget to financially support regular arts instruction at all schools, Explore opportunities for CTE and Arts Education

What strengths or challenges are unique to your school district's arts programming, and what would you like voters to know about your perspective on them?

Our district is very conservative and chronically short on money. Arts education really requires the board and the administration to push it as a priority.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your vision for supporting arts education, or how arts education fits with your campaign as a whole?

I support the arts as real learning.

Which of the following were part of your own K-12 schooling? (Check all that apply.)

Arts-focused Career & Technical Education, Cultural/Folk Arts, Dance, Media Arts, Music, Theatre, Visual Art

Which of these arts did you experience outside the K-12 school day? (Check all that apply.)

Arts-focused Career & Technical Education, Dance, Music, Visual Art

How did your experiences with the arts impact your education, or your life after high school?

• The arts impacted me to pursue more art classes in college and earn an AA degree, later a BA and an MA.

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider implementing? (Check all that would you would pursue.)

Attend events for our K-12 visual and/or performing arts programs, Work for a budget to financially support regular arts instruction at all schools, Explore opportunities for CTE and Arts Education, Expand district-wide data collection for arts tracking and accountability

What strengths or challenges are unique to your school district's arts programming, and what would you like voters to know about your perspective on them?

The arts programs in our district rely on support from voters to pass levies. Challenges include public misinformation about school funding and a widespread anti-tax movement on social media.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your vision for supporting arts education, or how arts education fits with your campaign as a whole?

I currently volunteer teaching art in a nearby district, Evergreen, that does not have full time art in elementary. I see firsthand how important art is to student learning. I also see that art as a volunteer program does not provide the resources that a fully implemented art program would.

Which of the following were part of your own K-12 schooling? (Check all that apply.)

Arts-focused Career & Technical Education, Music

Which of these arts did you experience outside the K-12 school day? (Check all that apply.)

Arts-focused Career & Technical Education, Music, Theatre

How did your experiences with the arts impact your education, or your life after high school?

• Although I have always enjoyed arts, I never considered myself artistic. I do believe that arts education has enhanced my creative, brainstorming ability. In business and leadership, being creative is a skill that I believe my exposure to the arts early on contributed to.

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider implementing? (Check all that would you would pursue.)

Attend events for our K-12 visual and/or performing arts programs, Work for a budget to financially support regular arts instruction at all schools, Explore opportunities for CTE and Arts Education

What strengths or challenges are unique to your school district's arts programming, and what would you like voters to know about your perspective on them?

Our district is well known for robust music and art programs. In order to maintain our programs, the district needs to continue to have the amount of volunteers to provide meaningful art discovery programs in elementary. Ensuring we maintain levy funding and balance the budget to provide arts programs and extracurricular activities for students. As the world changes with technology, our programs we offer for CTE/ electives need to be relevant to keep our students competitive.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your vision for supporting arts education, or how arts education fits with your campaign as a whole?

I believe my role as a school director is to ensure our students have as many opportunities as possible. The more diversity in classes and study keeps students engaged and wanting to be at school. Arts education and programs is completes the whole education for students.

Which of the following were part of your own K-12 schooling? (Check all that apply.)

Arts-focused Career & Technical Education, Dance, Media Arts, Music, Theatre, Visual Art

Which of these arts did you experience outside the K-12 school day? (Check all that apply.)

Arts-focused Career & Technical Education, Media Arts, Visual Art

How did your experiences with the arts impact your education, or your life after high school?

• I decided to become a DECA/FBLA judge because of the video production event. I also want to be a DECA/FBLA advisor for a school so we can shepherd students into the classes they need to take.

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider implementing? (Check all that would you would pursue.)

Attend events for our K-12 visual and/or performing arts programs, Research local arts programming and assess current needs, Create a local arts education task-force, Support non-arts teachers with professional development opportunities for arts inclusion, Explore opportunities for CTE and Arts Education, Seek out insights from local PTAs, Booster Clubs, and/or arts organizations, Study Washington’s arts requirements in depth to ensure effective implimentation

What strengths or challenges are unique to your school district's arts programming, and what would you like voters to know about your perspective on them?

I feel Heritage HS should have a video production entrant. In spite of us having a NBCT who teaches video production and has almost 2 decades of experience, I have not seen anyone from Heritage do video production. Union has sent a few students to FBLA nationals for video production event. I would like to get a middle level chapter for all of our middle schools in our district.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your vision for supporting arts education, or how arts education fits with your campaign as a whole?

Trying to get a FBLA middle level chapter for our schools, support for DECA,SkillsUSA and FBLA