ESD 121 Puget Sound Educational Service District

Which of these arts did you have as a part of your own K-12 education?

Music, Theatre

How did the arts impact your education and life after high school?

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider to support arts education in your district?

• Work for a budget to finacially support arts instruction at all schools

How do you plan to support and implement SB5878 this school year?

Through policies that demonstrate progress towards meeting these statewide education goals.

Arts education which incorporates trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices can be uniquely beneficial, especially during this challenging period in history. How do you see the arts playing a role in student success in your district?

Arts can be a form of expression and communication. It can also be a refuge where students can be introspective and express feelings that they may not otherwise be comfortable expressing. Developing these skills is valuable throughout life.

Which of these arts did you have as a part of your own K-12 education?

Music, Theatre, Visual Art

How did the arts impact your education and life after high school?

My experience in theatre definitely made me more confident.

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider to support arts education in your district?

• Research current arts program and assess needs throughout the district
• Work for a budget to finacially support 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 arts inclusion professional development opportunities for classroom teachers
• Support trauma-informed, culturally responsive professional development for arts teachers
• Expand district-wide data collection for tracking and accountability
• Seek out insights from local PTAs, Booster Clubs, and arts organizations

How do you plan to support and implement SB5878 this school year?

By ensuring that we have enough teachers to meet this requirement.

Arts education which incorporates trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices can be uniquely beneficial, especially during this challenging period in history. How do you see the arts playing a role in student success in your district?

I think that trauma-informed arts education can help improve the mental health of our districts students.

Which of these arts did you have as a part of your own K-12 education?

Music, Theatre

How did the arts impact your education and life after high school?

It added to a very positive school experience

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider to support arts education in your district?

• Research current arts program and assess needs throughout the district
• Work for a budget to finacially support arts instruction at all schools
• Develop or update a district level arts plan
• Support arts inclusion professional development opportunities for classroom teachers
• Expand district-wide data collection for tracking and accountability
• Seek out insights from local PTAs, Booster Clubs, and arts organizations

How do you plan to support and implement SB5878 this school year?

I would research district policy and programs first.

Arts education which incorporates trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices can be uniquely beneficial, especially during this challenging period in history. How do you see the arts playing a role in student success in your district?

I think it is very important.

Which of these arts did you have as a part of your own K-12 education?

Music, Theatre, Visual Art

How did the arts impact your education and life after high school?

Some of my favorite memories are of songs we learned and performed. I still have tunes in my head and a connection to music because of my experiences.

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider to support arts education in your district?

• Research current arts program and assess needs throughout the district
• Work for a budget to finacially support arts instruction at all schools
• Develop or update a district level arts plan
• Support trauma-informed, culturally responsive professional development for arts teachers
• Expand district-wide data collection for tracking and accountability

How do you plan to support and implement SB5878 this school year?

One of the most important pieces of SB 5828 is consulting art instructors and giving them and equal part in the decision process regarding which programs to offer at the varying grade levels. an

Arts education which incorporates trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices can be uniquely beneficial, especially during this challenging period in history. How do you see the arts playing a role in student success in your district?

Over the summer I had the opportunity to take a week-long neural education course. Understanding how trauma impacts the brain is essential in helping students recognize their needs. Art is often overlooked in school, as the subject is not considered Core content. More educators (and administrators - since they tend to make most decisions) need to learn the importance of art education and brain development. Students need the arts.

Which of these arts did you have as a part of your own K-12 education?

Media Arts, Music

How did the arts impact your education and life after high school?

I consider myself a mixed media artist and designer. I plan on using my art into retirement.

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider to support arts education in your district?

• Research current arts program and assess needs throughout the district
• Work for a budget to finacially support arts instruction at all schools
• Develop or update a district level arts plan
• Develop or expand district support for teaching artist residencies
• Support arts inclusion professional development opportunities for classroom teachers
• Support trauma-informed, culturally responsive professional development for arts teachers
• Expand district-wide data collection for tracking and accountability
• Seek out insights from local PTAs, Booster Clubs, and arts organizations

How do you plan to support and implement SB5878 this school year?

I would dig deeper into what it entails and be open to discussion, budget planning, as well as support any during and after school clubs in the arts.

Arts education which incorporates trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices can be uniquely beneficial, especially during this challenging period in history. How do you see the arts playing a role in student success in your district?

I believe students all benefit from some sort of art, and studies show kids learn better when they are apart of the arts. Their minds function at another level.

Which of these arts did you have as a part of your own K-12 education?

Dance, Media Arts, Music, Theatre, Visual Art

How did the arts impact your education and life after high school?

My experience with the arts helped foster my creativity and my love of the arts, but it also helped provide new ways of thinking which ultimately helped my overall growth and perspective as a human being.

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider to support arts education in your district?

• Research current arts program and assess needs throughout the district
• Work for a budget to finacially support 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 arts inclusion professional development opportunities for classroom teachers
• Support trauma-informed, culturally responsive professional development for arts teachers
• Expand district-wide data collection for tracking and accountability
• Seek out insights from local PTAs, Booster Clubs, and arts organizations
• I'm open to a wide range of ideas
• provided they can provide evidence of success.

How do you plan to support and implement SB5878 this school year?

We currently have some phenomenal teachers of the arts doing great work in the district, but the reality is that all the arts could use more funding and support, both in Federal Way and throughout the state. My approach would be to work with the superintendent to assure we find ways to support our amazing teachers, while also approaching the legislature to fight for more funding for the arts, both in Federal Way and throughout the state.

Arts education which incorporates trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices can be uniquely beneficial, especially during this challenging period in history. How do you see the arts playing a role in student success in your district?

Arts can help students grow on so many levels, particularly when it’s culturally responsive and trauma-informed. I currently work in schools and I have seen firsthand how our students are struggling as they return to school following Covid, or when students from marginalized communities see their very existence politicized in ways that they internalize. Art helps them grow, explore, resist, think, develop, and so much more. Art makes us human, and it can literally save lives when people are at their lowest. I am a strong believer in the arts being linked to student success.

Which of these arts did you have as a part of your own K-12 education?

Dance, Music, Theatre, Visual Art

How did the arts impact your education and life after high school?

I discovered my creative ability, and learned that it is separate from artistic skills, which can be learned. I majored in college in Fine Arts/Art as a result. Later became an Interior Designer at Fine Furniture store. Ultimately I got a teaching certificate and taught art.

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider to support arts education in your district?

• Research current arts program and assess needs throughout the district
• 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 arts inclusion professional development opportunities for classroom teachers
• Seek out insights from local PTAs, Booster Clubs, and arts organizations

How do you plan to support and implement SB5878 this school year?

Invest tome learning about it and promote the advancement of the arts.

Arts education which incorporates trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices can be uniquely beneficial, especially during this challenging period in history. How do you see the arts playing a role in student success in your district?

Agree, it is of value, and I have been trained in it, but feel that it should not be the roll of an Arts program. Anyone needing Art Therapy would best be served by a trained therapist, not a general ed Art teacher. Teachers need to mot enmesh w their students, as their involvement can be misconstrued.

Which of these arts did you have as a part of your own K-12 education?

Dance, Music, Theatre, Visual Art

How did the arts impact your education and life after high school?

Dance, music and art was my life-line to get through high school. After graduation, I continued my studies in dance and music before switching majors to business and finance, but I have continued to use my musical skills to teach dance, music therapy to autistic children, sing in choirs and performances and teach my children the love for music. The arts blessed my life and should be accessible to all, and should be seen as priority to reach those students where they feel lost or along in the academic or social world. Many children with special needs also find joy and respite through art and music.

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider to support arts education in your district?

• Research current arts program and assess needs throughout the district
• Work for a budget to finacially support 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 arts inclusion professional development opportunities for classroom teachers
• Support trauma-informed, culturally responsive professional development for arts teachers
• Expand district-wide data collection for tracking and accountability
• Seek out insights from local PTAs, Booster Clubs, and arts organizations

How do you plan to support and implement SB5878 this school year?

When passing budgets and priorities, making sure we have a well-balanced, accessible curriculum of the arts to all our schools and that music and art is seen not only as fundamental, but as an important partner and aid to help children who donít have those opportunities at home or find solace and safety in their art and music expression.

Arts education which incorporates trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices can be uniquely beneficial, especially during this challenging period in history. How do you see the arts playing a role in student success in your district?

There is so much scientific research that supports music as being an important piece of helping students regulate and focus and make connections while listening to or experiencing music and appreciation like they wouldnít normally get. Many students with special needs find that listening to music while reading, studying or working on a project, creates connections and helps them regulate themselves, finding the beat, rhythm and symphonic complexities to stimulate and expand their capabilities and helps them to remember things better.

Our students deserve access to good musical and artistic avenues and programs to round out their education and the arts should never been seen as secondary or ìnice to have.î

Which of these arts did you have as a part of your own K-12 education?

Dance, Music, Theatre, Visual Art

How did the arts impact your education and life after high school?

I am the only working educator in my race and I just started my 29th year as an elementary music teacher. I still sing and am married to a visual artist. Arts education had a great impact on my life growing up. I wasn’t that much of an athlete, but you could always find me in the music room or drama room. I was the only boy who was invested in speech and drama in high school.

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider to support arts education in your district?

• Research current arts program and assess needs throughout the district
• Work for a budget to finacially support 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 arts inclusion professional development opportunities for classroom teachers
• Support trauma-informed, culturally responsive professional development for arts teachers
• Expand district-wide data collection for tracking and accountability
• Seek out insights from local PTAs, Booster Clubs, and arts organizations

How do you plan to support and implement SB5878 this school year?

After hearing that budgets are going to take an impact this coming year (again), as I have always done over my 3 decades in a music classroom, I will advocate hard to find other places to cut money.

Arts education which incorporates trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices can be uniquely beneficial, especially during this challenging period in history. How do you see the arts playing a role in student success in your district?

We need more arts education in every district. If we really sat down and academically looked at all the benefits of arts education, we would surely see test scores improve, attendance improve, comprehension improve, and our students to thrive.

Which of these arts did you have as a part of your own K-12 education?

Media Arts

How did the arts impact your education and life after high school?

These skills gave me the ability to do more than peers on both college and workplace.

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider to support arts education in your district?

• Research current arts program and assess needs throughout the district
• Work for a budget to finacially support arts instruction at all schools
• Develop or expand district support for teaching artist residencies
• Seek out insights from local PTAs, Booster Clubs, and arts organizations

How do you plan to support and implement SB5878 this school year?

Yes

Arts education which incorporates trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices can be uniquely beneficial, especially during this challenging period in history. How do you see the arts playing a role in student success in your district?

The arts allow for individual expression, learning, social skills, and creativity. The arts need to be expanded to allow our students the opportunity to further develop as kids to young adults.

Which of these arts did you have as a part of your own K-12 education?

Media Arts, Theatre, Visual Art

How did the arts impact your education and life after high school?

I fell in love with visual representationówhether in documents, charts, slides, graphics, or logos. I kept searching for more effective ways to present ideas and over time, it helped me with clarity of thought in general, which was very pivotal for success at executive levels.

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider to support arts education in your district?

• Research current arts program and assess needs throughout the district
• Develop or update a district level arts plan
• Develop or expand district support for teaching artist residencies
• Support arts inclusion professional development opportunities for classroom teachers
• Support trauma-informed, culturally responsive professional development for arts teachers

How do you plan to support and implement SB5878 this school year?

Assess our programs against, identify and track key metrics, identify opportunities for improvement, and set targets for systematic improvement.

Arts education which incorporates trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices can be uniquely beneficial, especially during this challenging period in history. How do you see the arts playing a role in student success in your district?

Art is a communication channel. It helps people express themselves in ways words cannot. In a word torn by division, art can help with expression, understanding, and acceptance. It can pave a path to unity.

Which of these arts did you have as a part of your own K-12 education?

Music, Visual Art

How did the arts impact your education and life after high school?

Engaging in visual art not only enhanced my hand-eye coordination but also ignited my creativity and amplified my concentration. Through artistic endeavors, I learned to approach the world from diverse perspectives and think on my feet. Art became a medium for my self-expression, fostering my communication skills and boosting my confidence. Embracing mistakes and coloring outside the lines was not just allowed, it was encouraged, teaching me that life itself is an experiment, and errors are natural steps toward growth. This mindset instilled in me a strong sense of confidence. From a holistic standpoint, these skills have proven invaluable in navigating life beyond high school.

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider to support arts education in your district?

• Research current arts program and assess needs throughout the district
• Work for a budget to finacially support 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 arts inclusion professional development opportunities for classroom teachers
• Support trauma-informed, culturally responsive professional development for arts teachers
• Expand district-wide data collection for tracking and accountability
• Seek out insights from local PTAs, Booster Clubs, and arts organizations

How do you plan to support and implement SB5878 this school year?

To effectively support and implement SB5878 this school year, I will prioritize a multi-tiered approach. Firstly, I will work to ensure supportive staff training to understand and integrate SB5878 into elementary, middle, and high schools. This includes addressing the requirements for equitable access to educational opportunities, meeting the unique needs of students, and supporting diverse learning styles. Additionally, I hope to establish clear communication channels with parents and the community to keep them informed about the changes and gather their feedback. Regularly assessing progress and growth will be a key part of the plan, allowing the district to make adjustments as needed. The ultimate goal is to create an inclusive and responsive educational environment that aligns with the principles of SB5878, ensuring all students can thrive.

Arts education which incorporates trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices can be uniquely beneficial, especially during this challenging period in history. How do you see the arts playing a role in student success in your district?

In our district, art education has emerged as a vital catalyst for student success, uniquely poised to address the challenges of our times. By integrating trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices, it serves as a healing and empowering force. Art provides a safe space for students to express and process their emotions, fostering resilience and emotional well-being. Moreover, it celebrates diversity, acknowledging the cultural richness of our community. This inclusive approach not only enhances creativity but also fosters a sense of belonging and self-worth, thus promoting holistic student development. In these turbulent times, the arts are a cornerstone of our students’ journey to success.

Which of these arts did you have as a part of your own K-12 education?

Media Arts, Music, Theatre

How did the arts impact your education and life after high school?

They encouraged me to be more socialized, more involved, and more dedicated. In art class I had to practice the same skill over and over to seek improvement. In theater and choir I had to memorize lines, notes, position. I had to collaborate with others and take constructive feedback. I had to be willing to step out of my comfort zone to participate to the best of my ability.

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider to support arts education in your district?

• Research current arts program and assess needs throughout the district
• Work for a budget to finacially support arts instruction at all schools
• Develop or update a district level arts plan
• Develop or expand district support for teaching artist residencies
• Support arts inclusion professional development opportunities for classroom teachers
• Support trauma-informed, culturally responsive professional development for arts teachers
• Expand district-wide data collection for tracking and accountability
• Seek out insights from local PTAs, Booster Clubs, and arts organizations

How do you plan to support and implement SB5878 this school year?

While this school yearís plan has already been approved and is currently being implemented, I would work to ensure that for the next school year there is a firm plan in place that allows students to take full advantage of arts programs. Iím our district we have seen numerous cuts to arts programs, with teachers having to travel between several schools to maintain full employment status as the schools donít have robust arts programs at all. In a district such as ours that prides itself on diversity and equity, a robust art curriculum and course offering for upper grades must be available to all students.

Arts education which incorporates trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices can be uniquely beneficial, especially during this challenging period in history. How do you see the arts playing a role in student success in your district?

Artistic expression is so therapeutic- allowing children the opportunity to be able to create free art projects, or sing loud and proud or conquer a new song on instrument, or step inside the mind of a character to escape their own traumas can be so helpful to students whose only healthy outlet is art and school. Having that safe place for self expression and creativity is certainly a pathway to healing.

Which of these arts did you have as a part of your own K-12 education?

Music, Visual Art

How did the arts impact your education and life after high school?

I believe that creative arts were an important part of helping me see the world in a more expansive way. It also, in retrospect, helped to develop additional neural pathways that helped when integrating information in other classes.

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider to support arts education in your district?

• Research current arts program and assess needs throughout the district
• Work for a budget to finacially support arts instruction at all schools
• Develop or update a district level arts plan
• Support arts inclusion professional development opportunities for classroom teachers
• Support trauma-informed, culturally responsive professional development for arts teachers

How do you plan to support and implement SB5878 this school year?

In addition to ensuring that the school district complies with the legal requirements of SB5878, I will advocate for ensuring that visual and performing arts education is provided in equitable and accessible ways for all students regardless of physical and developmental ability and English language fluency.

Arts education which incorporates trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices can be uniquely beneficial, especially during this challenging period in history. How do you see the arts playing a role in student success in your district?

I believe that visual and performing arts education, when provided in utilizing trauma-informed and culturally responsive methods, can provide additional outlets of creativity that can help students to feel more free to express themselves and to consciously or unconsciously process emotions that may be hampering the ability or openness to learning in other courses.

Which of these arts did you have as a part of your own K-12 education?

Dance, Music, Theatre

How did the arts impact your education and life after high school?

I love art. As I travel I love to go to art museums, love music, dance, movies, theater and concerts

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider to support arts education in your district?

• Research current arts program and assess needs throughout the district
• Work for a budget to finacially support arts instruction at all schools
• Support arts inclusion professional development opportunities for classroom teachers
• Support trauma-informed, culturally responsive professional development for arts teachers
• Expand district-wide data collection for tracking and accountability
• Seek out insights from local PTAs, Booster Clubs, and arts organizations

How do you plan to support and implement SB5878 this school year?

The board approves our policies and the administrative team and staff provide the procedures. I trust their expertise.

Arts education which incorporates trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices can be uniquely beneficial, especially during this challenging period in history. How do you see the arts playing a role in student success in your district?

I see the arts as providing mental and behavioral health support for students. Engaging in the arts will provide access to students who will benefit from the opportunities the arts will provide them. The surgeon general declared loneliness as a health hazard - students need to be engaged in arts and athletics for their health.

Which of these arts did you have as a part of your own K-12 education?

Music, Visual Art

How did the arts impact your education and life after high school?

It was a place where I could express myself and focus on something I loved to do.

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider to support arts education in your district?

• Research current arts program and assess needs throughout the district
• Work for a budget to finacially support 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 arts inclusion professional development opportunities for classroom teachers
• Support trauma-informed, culturally responsive professional development for arts teachers
• Seek out insights from local PTAs, Booster Clubs, and arts organizations

How do you plan to support and implement SB5878 this school year?

I would push for more funding. Giving a wider range of art in the school district will help students flourish if this becomes a career move or if it just an outlet for students.

Arts education which incorporates trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices can be uniquely beneficial, especially during this challenging period in history. How do you see the arts playing a role in student success in your district?

Incorporating trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices into arts education ensures that students’ unique needs are met, creating a supportive and inclusive environment. This approach recognizes that each student has their own experiences and challenges and aims to provide a personalized and empathetic approach to education.

In our district, promoting arts education with a focus on trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices can be a proactive step toward enhancing student well-being, resilience, and academic success during challenging periods in history. It acknowledges the multifaceted needs of students and strives to provide a comprehensive and supportive educational experience.

Which of these arts did you have as a part of your own K-12 education?

Dance, Music, Theatre, Visual Art

How did the arts impact your education and life after high school?

Arts were hugely important to me. I went on to receive an MFA in Documentary Film after college and am a professional filmmaker today! I am also a budding jazz musician.

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider to support arts education in your district?

• Research current arts program and assess needs throughout the district
• Work for a budget to finacially support 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 arts inclusion professional development opportunities for classroom teachers
• Support trauma-informed, culturally responsive professional development for arts teachers
• Expand district-wide data collection for tracking and accountability
• Seek out insights from local PTAs, Booster Clubs, and arts organizations
• Enlist parent artists and other community member artists to support arts programming at schools on a volunteer basis until we have secured more robust programming district wide.

How do you plan to support and implement SB5878 this school year?

As a board member I will work to ensure that the Seattle School Board creates and enforces policy (not simply a resolution) in accordance with SB5878 so that children across our district have equitable, robust access to diverse arts education. I will also advocate for incorporating arts into academic subjects, such as teaching music theory as part of math curriculum.

Arts education which incorporates trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices can be uniquely beneficial, especially during this challenging period in history. How do you see the arts playing a role in student success in your district?

I am a strong believer in the healing power of art, which is why I have recently started a jazz program for incarcerated youth in collaboration with formerly incarcerated local activist and trauma-informed yoga instructor, Faraji Bhakti and Seattle non-profit Jazz Night School. Arts education is most critical to and can have to greatest positive impact on students with the least amount access to it, which is something I will work tirelessly to rectify. Art saves lives. I see arts education as one very accessible and important avenue for addressing trauma as well as the student mental health crisis.

Which of these arts did you have as a part of your own K-12 education?

Music, Theatre, Visual Art

How did the arts impact your education and life after high school?

I grew up studying and playing violin as an individual performer and in orchestra, and was always involved in artistic expression. Theater was an important part of my education and extracurricular time, and I went on to major in Theater as an undergraduate, work as a scenic artist in Seattle, and then pursue a career in set design. I earned my MFA in Scenic Design for Theater and worked professionally in New York City and NE US as well as being an adjunct lecturer in design and scenic painting instructor at CUNY: Queens College. I continue to use my collaborative art and design background and experience every day as a school board director!

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider to support arts education in your district?

• Research current arts program and assess needs throughout the district
• Work for a budget to finacially support arts instruction at all schools
• Develop or update a district level arts plan
• Develop or expand district support for teaching artist residencies
• Support arts inclusion professional development opportunities for classroom teachers
• Support trauma-informed, culturally responsive professional development for arts teachers
• Expand district-wide data collection for tracking and accountability
• Seek out insights from local PTAs, Booster Clubs, and arts organizations

How do you plan to support and implement SB5878 this school year?

In addition to a district-wide assessment of adequacy and availability of arts education opportunities and placement of teachers with relevant endorsements, and aligning budget and resources to ensuring consistent offerings and access across all SPS schools, I would like to explore dual-credit and cross-credit possibilities. For example, developing courses that could satisfy requirements in arts and history, by learning history through art exploration, and/or increasing opportunities in CTE that include the arts. I want to support access to the arts through not just adding art classes, but by increasing the ways in which the arts are present in all student learning.

Arts education which incorporates trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices can be uniquely beneficial, especially during this challenging period in history. How do you see the arts playing a role in student success in your district?

Students recovering from pandemic disruption and trauma need the arts more than ever. I want to continue to support the arts as not an optional luxury, but a critical part of every child’s education. The arts offer students an opportunity to express themselves, to communicate, to collaborate, to develop skills and interests, to learn about the past, and also many wonderful career paths and opportunities. Ensuring that all students have access and opportunity in the arts is foundational to student success in SPS and is a bridge to the greater community, as well.

Which of these arts did you have as a part of your own K-12 education?

Music, Theatre

How did the arts impact your education and life after high school?

I was grateful for my experience and have fond memories of playing in band while in Junior High and in a play in elementary.

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider to support arts education in your district?

• Research current arts program and assess needs throughout the district
• Work for a budget to finacially support 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 arts inclusion professional development opportunities for classroom teachers
• Support trauma-informed, culturally responsive professional development for arts teachers
• Expand district-wide data collection for tracking and accountability
• Seek out insights from local PTAs, Booster Clubs, and arts organizations

How do you plan to support and implement SB5878 this school year?

Since art credit is required for high school graducation, all of the strategies above must be utilized. As well as supporting concrete pathways for educators to gain their certification if needed. This is important to meet culturally responsive art curriculum.

Arts education which incorporates trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices can be uniquely beneficial, especially during this challenging period in history. How do you see the arts playing a role in student success in your district?

As an LGBTQ+ person I have been engaging in art, as a young adult, in the forms of dance, drag, video production and show production for nearly a decade. Art is a form of survival for those of us in marginalized communities. Currently, my family is invested in art in the form of song and dance as a trauma-informed practices with our child. I have lived experience in mulitple ways personally around the benefits of art for children and young adults. And I am familiar with the evidence-based practices educators utiize to benefit all students. Art and creativity are key strategies for student success especially, but not exclusively, for students who are BIPOC, engaged in the child welfare system, low-income, living with disabilities, and LGBTQIA+ students.

Which of these arts did you have as a part of your own K-12 education?

Music, Theatre

How did the arts impact your education and life after high school?

My exposure to the arts enabled me to experience he world in a broader way.

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider to support arts education in your district?

• Work for a budget to finacially support 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 arts inclusion professional development opportunities for classroom teachers
• Support trauma-informed, culturally responsive professional development for arts teachers
• Expand district-wide data collection for tracking and accountability
• Seek out insights from local PTAs, Booster Clubs, and arts organizations

How do you plan to support and implement SB5878 this school year?

I whole heartedly support SB5878

Arts education which incorporates trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices can be uniquely beneficial, especially during this challenging period in history. How do you see the arts playing a role in student success in your district?

The arts bring together students from different backgrounds and gives them the opportunity to work together on many different types of projects. This unity breaks down barriers of language and cultural experience.

Which of these arts did you have as a part of your own K-12 education?

Dance, Music, Theatre, Visual Art

How did the arts impact your education and life after high school?

Very positive experiences! After college I took a break from music but started again around age 30 and it has stayed with me!

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider to support arts education in your district?

• Research current arts program and assess needs throughout the district
• Work for a budget to finacially support 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 arts inclusion professional development opportunities for classroom teachers
• Support trauma-informed, culturally responsive professional development for arts teachers
• Expand district-wide data collection for tracking and accountability
• Seek out insights from local PTAs, Booster Clubs, and arts organizations

How do you plan to support and implement SB5878 this school year?

If elected I will definitely focus on this.

Arts education which incorporates trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices can be uniquely beneficial, especially during this challenging period in history. How do you see the arts playing a role in student success in your district?

For many kids, the arts are a lifeline and may be the only class or club they looks forward to all day. We can use that to help them recover from the pandemic and other traumas.

Which of these arts did you have as a part of your own K-12 education?

Media Arts, Music, Visual Art

How did the arts impact your education and life after high school?

Music is a constant companion, painting and sculptures still give me a sense of wonder and connection to history.

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider to support arts education in your district?

• Research current arts program and assess needs throughout the district
• Work for a budget to finacially support arts instruction at all schools
• Develop or update a district level arts plan
• Seek out insights from local PTAs, Booster Clubs, and arts organizations

How do you plan to support and implement SB5878 this school year?

Ideally I’d support an approach that brings multidisciplinary art instruction for all ages. Older students can specialize at will and I’d like to see outside funding to develop and encourage more classes in expression and art appreciation.

Arts education which incorporates trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices can be uniquely beneficial, especially during this challenging period in history. How do you see the arts playing a role in student success in your district?

Art can be a release, it can also provide needed structure for some students. All in all we need the Arts to encourage free thought, personal growth and to repect the abilities around them in others.

Which of these arts did you have as a part of your own K-12 education?

Media Arts, Visual Art

How did the arts impact your education and life after high school?

Art allowed me an outlet to relax and focus on the project in front of me and take a mental break from the stresses of the day. I think it is so important for young people to learn how to take a moment for themselves and know that the stresses of the world will be there tomorrow. Art allowed me to also learn that you don’t have to be an expert at something to still enjoy it!

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider to support arts education in your district?

• Research current arts program and assess needs throughout the district
• Work for a budget to finacially support arts instruction at all schools
• Support arts inclusion professional development opportunities for classroom teachers
• Support trauma-informed, culturally responsive professional development for arts teachers
• Seek out insights from local PTAs, Booster Clubs, and arts organizations

How do you plan to support and implement SB5878 this school year?

As a school board director I would plan to request a presentation to the board on the current status of the districts arts programs. I would look for areas to improve as well as areas to highlight as successes to celebrate the good work already being done in the district.

Arts education which incorporates trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices can be uniquely beneficial, especially during this challenging period in history. How do you see the arts playing a role in student success in your district?

This is a spot on assessment of how the arts can support students in our district experiencing various traumas. The arts can give them a focus, direction and purpose that can hopefully help them to heal. More often than not traumas will be with us for a lifetime and having a therapeutic outlet in the arts can help people tremendously.

Which of these arts did you have as a part of your own K-12 education?

Media Arts, Music, Theatre, Visual Art

How did the arts impact your education and life after high school?

Exposure to choral music, trumpet in band, photography, and pottery over my k-12 experience developed my creative and artistic eye. From putting in landscaping at my first home 30 years ago, to currently photographing homes to capture buyers’ attention as a real estate professional, a back ground in the arts has served me well. Additionally, my artistic endeavors helped develop the ability to see what is and ask what could be. As a former Special Agent at the Office of Inspector General, US Department of Education, creating theories about financial fraud cases helped develop paths of inquiry.

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider to support arts education in your district?

• Develop or update a district level arts plan
• Seek out insights from local PTAs, Booster Clubs, and arts organizations

How do you plan to support and implement SB5878 this school year?

The Sumner-Bonney Lake School District for years has already been implementing provisions of SB5878.

Arts education which incorporates trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices can be uniquely beneficial, especially during this challenging period in history. How do you see the arts playing a role in student success in your district?

Self expression is important for an individual to feel they matter. Helping students think deeply about themselves and artistically creating something that is an extension of themselves, their cause, or core convictions benefits both the artist and the audience.

Which of these arts did you have as a part of your own K-12 education?

Music, Visual Art

How did the arts impact your education and life after high school?

The arts enlightened me about different opportunities and that ART is not just about paintings or drawing. It includes so much more than what is taught in the standard curriculum. I especially enjoyed the visual arts class in high school that taught me how to merge video and audio into presentations, how to take and develop photos, as well as introduced me to history behind the technology we were using in the classroom. I think it helped ignite my curiosity about how to use visual arts and technology in my personal and professional lives. Of course, my visual art course was in the early 80s and technology has advanced tremendously over the past 40 years, but those skills I learned then apply today.

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider to support arts education in your district?

• Research current arts program and assess needs throughout the district
• Work for a budget to finacially support arts instruction at all schools
• Create a local arts education task-force
• Develop or update a district level arts plan
• Support arts inclusion professional development opportunities for classroom teachers
• Expand district-wide data collection for tracking and accountability

How do you plan to support and implement SB5878 this school year?

The bases on the bill is important, but how to support and implement it in this school district deserves conversation with other board members, faculty, and the superintendent. It would be difficult for me to respond to this since, if elected, this would be my first time as a school board member.

Arts education which incorporates trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices can be uniquely beneficial, especially during this challenging period in history. How do you see the arts playing a role in student success in your district?

When we talk about inclusive curriculum and schools, art plays a role in building whole communities. Art allows for students to discover different talents, develop cultural competencies about culture and communities near and far, and seeks to close the cultural misunderstanding and misinformation that is the foundation of ethnic and racial discrimination.

Which of these arts did you have as a part of your own K-12 education?

Music, Theatre, Visual Art

How did the arts impact your education and life after high school?

The arts are critical to well rounded education. I have a love for music and performing arts to his day that I may not have developed without arts in my k-12 education.

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider to support arts education in your district?

• Work for a budget to finacially support arts instruction at all schools
• Support arts inclusion professional development opportunities for classroom teachers
• Expand district-wide data collection for tracking and accountability
• Seek out insights from local PTAs, Booster Clubs, and arts organizations

How do you plan to support and implement SB5878 this school year?

By assessing the district for deficiencies in schools and increasing resources where needed

Arts education which incorporates trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices can be uniquely beneficial, especially during this challenging period in history. How do you see the arts playing a role in student success in your district?

Arts are vital to the culture of Tacoma. We should support our students pursuing arts education and careers.

Which of these arts did you have as a part of your own K-12 education?

Music, Theatre

How did the arts impact your education and life after high school?

Tremendously impactful. I am a musician and joined as many school-based and non-school-based opportunities as possible. My exposure to the arts at an early age has had a significant impact on my life. Music and other arts bring me joy daily and are fulfilling to the point of enhancing my work and volunteer life as well.

If elected, which of these strategies would you consider to support arts education in your district?

• Develop or update a district level arts plan
• Support arts inclusion professional development opportunities for classroom teachers
• Support trauma-informed, culturally responsive professional development for arts teachers
• Expand district-wide data collection for tracking and accountability
• Seek out insights from local PTAs, Booster Clubs, and arts organizations

How do you plan to support and implement SB5878 this school year?

Our district has fully embraced the spirit of this bill and requires an arts credit in our graduation requirements. We have a robust arts offering in our course catalog. I fully support the bill and will continue to advocate for arts education for future bills as well.

Arts education which incorporates trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices can be uniquely beneficial, especially during this challenging period in history. How do you see the arts playing a role in student success in your district?

Every culture has its own unique dance, visual arts, theatre, and musical expression. With a renewed focus on culturally responsive instruction, studying the unique ways that arts are expressed in different cultures offers an incredible insight into the cultural beliefs and values that informed that expression. My belief is that the arts are a great equalizer and makes cultural studies more accessible. Beyond the personal fulfillment and joy that the arts bring, I think student success is enhanced in cultural understanding by viewing through an arts lens.