Multnomah Education Service District Director Zone 2 Position 3 Choose 1
The 19 education service districts in Oregon were created by the Legislature to oversee and support the school districts in their area. They provide supplemental services such as special education and coordinate services shared among several school districts. They also certify teachers, maintain school property, and are empowered to create new school districts.Qualifications: Candidate for a Zone position must be a registered voter in zone. Candidate for an at-large position must be registered voter in district. Candidates are elected by zone or districtwide for at-large positions.Term: 4 years
Biographical Information
Town Where You Live
Portland
County
OR
What relevant skills and experience would you bring to this position?
I began teaching in Compton, California in 1974 while awaiting a Peace Corps assignment in Liberia. After returning to the U.S., I taught math in Berkeley and later became Director of the MESA Program at San Francisco State University. In 1985, I was recruited to launch MESA for Portland Public Schools.
I went on to serve as Outreach Director for Saturday Academy, working to increase participation of students of color in STEM programs. In 2000, I returned to the classroom, teaching until 2012 — a decision that allowed me to spend more time with my children. I continued substitute teaching until the COVID pandemic.
Currently, I serve as Chair of the MESD Board of Directors, and sit other educational boards and committees.
What is the best way for a voter to determine how well the MESD is doing?
Attend our Board meetings, check out our website and subscribe to the MESD newsletter.
What functions of the MESD are most important to you?
The Multnomah Education Service District (MESD) provides essential services that help all students—especially those with unique challenge. We offer specialized services like speech therapy, occupational therapy, and support for students with hearing, vision, or developmental challenges. These services are often too expensive or complex for one district to provide on its own.
From school nurses and health screenings to emergency planning, MESD helps keep students healthy and ready to learn and connects students with hands-on job training, internships, and career exploration programs. MESD works to make sure students from all backgrounds—especially those from underserved communities.