-Hi, I'm Debbie Carlsen.
I'm running for Seattle School Board Director
in District 1.
I chose to run because the status quo isn't working.
We are failing our students academically,
have poor labor relations,
face declining enrollment rates
and another budget deficit in the next school year.
The district and board want to close schools,
but this will disrupt families and students
throughout the district
and will not close the budget gap.
School closures should be a last resort
after exhausting all other options.
The district must strive for smaller class sizes,
higher academic achievement for all students,
safety in schools,
and a healthy and inclusive learning environment.
My priorities -- Calling for a district-wide audit
to ensure dollars are spent with fiscal accountability,
ensuring students can thrive and feel safe
while gaining a high-quality education,
no matter their identity,
implementing a stronger community engagement process,
especially when big district decisions are made,
bringing transparency back in the budget
and policy development processes.
I'm also running to be a strong LGBTQ+ voice
on the school board
and ensure students of all identities
feel a sense of belonging at school.
I bring experience from the classroom,
the workplace, and the community.
I taught English as a Second Language,
I have served on the Best Start for Kids Advisory Board,
and an executive director of an LGBTQ+ nonprofit
for 10 years.
I've been the advocacy chair for the Olympic Hills PTA
and understand the educational terrain in Olympia.
I'm endorsed by Seattle Education Association,
The Seattle Times, Jeanne Kohl-Welles,
Teresa Mosqueda, Lorena González,
MLK Labor Council,
Seattle School Board Director Lisa Rivera Smith, and more.
I'd be honored to earn your vote.
♪