-Hi, I'm Lisa Rivera Smith, and I'm excited
to be running for re-election
to the Seattle Schools Board of Directors.
There's no way around it --
These last few years have been hard for all of us,
for our educators, our principals,
classified staff, parents and caregivers,
but especially for our children.
Having served through a pandemic,
a teacher strike, and a superintendent search,
I've learned that our power is in our commitment
to the success of our students, so I'm running for re-election
because I'm committed to ensuring
that Seattle Public Schools makes good on its promises
of providing students a safe, inclusive,
and high-quality educational experience.
As a mom of two SPS graduates and one in second grade,
I know firsthand the challenges
our students and educators face in our district.
While visiting and volunteering in schools,
I have seen the importance
of not just attracting qualified teachers,
but of retaining them by giving them
the support they need to help students thrive.
Every student has unique needs,
and that is why I'm committed to advocating
for increased school funding, stronger partnerships
with families and community organizations,
and the codifying of every student's right
to have a voice in the decisions that affect them.
Seattle Public Schools is facing a budget deficit
over the next few years,
and I want to continue to work with you
and our entire SPS community to ensure that public input
is actively sought out and utilized
in advance of looming tough decisions.
As a woman of color, I know how important it is
for every voice to be heard, especially those of our LGTBQ+,
Black and Indigenous, our families of color,
and those who have historically been underrepresented
due to obstacles in participating
in our public systems.
I'm endorsed by the King County Democrats,
the 32nd, 36th, and 37th District Democrats,
and the Alliance for Gun Responsibility Victory Fund,
State Senators Javier Valdez and Rebecca Saldaña,
and by several school board directors
from SPS and neighboring districts,
as well as by The Stranger.
I'm honored to have their endorsement,
and I'd be honored to have your vote.
Thank you.