Hi.
I would like to do a descriptive introduction
for people who may have access needs.
My name is Michelle Sarju,
I'm African American, and I'm wearing all black.
I'm a 34-year Central District resident,
and I'm running for school board director for the children
and youth of Seattle Public Schools District 5.
As a former foster parent and the mom of three former
Seattle Public School students,
I'm running because I believe every student --
and I do mean every student -- should have access
to a high-quality, public school education.
Far too often, variables like race,
zip code, and socioeconomic status determine
who has access to a high-quality and equitable education.
We are now presented with an opportunity
to make the necessary changes that can result
in all SPS students being able to thrive.
Some of my high-level priorities are creating policies
that will support the emotional and mental health
of our next generation of leaders,
our students, ensuring that effective policies and programs
are established and in place to support the return
of all SPS students in the fall,
creating and installing evidence-based
assessment strategies that demonstrate
what our students have actually learned and retained.
It is time to move away from standardized testing
to strength-based assessments.
I'm excited about what SPS can be for all of our students,
and I'm looking forward to partnering with you all
to make that happen.
Thank you for supporting my candidacy
for Seattle Public Schools
School Board Director, District 5.