-I'm Janis White,
and I'm running for the Seattle School Board.
Seattle schools are in a financial crisis.
I'm running to challenge the status quo,
hold leadership accountable,
and bring people together to find solutions.
I will fight for transparent budgeting with a focus on early,
meaningful, and frequent engagement
with impacted communities.
Difficult budget decisions must be made.
However, school closures
and ending specialized learning programs
will only contribute to declining enrollment
and exacerbate, not solve, our budget issues.
I will work to protect our schools and essential programs
that keep as many kids as possible
in our public school system.
As a parent of students with disabilities,
I have seen firsthand
how Seattle Public Schools has failed to meet the needs
of all students, regardless of their background or abilities.
Teachers, staff,
and administrators want to do the right thing,
but they need stronger guidance and support.
Many students,
especially those from marginalized backgrounds
like our LGBTQ and BIPOC kids,
are facing high rates of anxiety, depression,
and serious mental-health challenges.
I'll work to live up to our promises
and fully fund more school counselors,
while also addressing the negative impact
of social-media use in classrooms.
"The Seattle Times" endorsed our campaign,
citing my deep knowledge of special education
and the law, areas of expertise the school board needs badly.
Whether it was as board president
of the Seattle Special Education PTSA
or founding a nonprofit organization
to increase inclusion and belonging for disabled youth,
I have fought for Seattle's students and families
for more than two decades.
Together, we can make tough choices
that center community input
and support all students to achieve success.
I would be honored to earn your vote.