Salem-Keizer School District Director Zone 7
There are 197 public school districts in Oregon, each governed by a board of education. School boards set goals, establish policies, oversee the performance of district schools, and negotiate contracts. The state Board of Education sets broader educational policies and standards that local schools are required to follow.Qualifications: Candidate must be a registered voter and a resident of the district for at least 1 year. Employees of the district are not eligible unless employed as a substitute driver. ORS 332.016 and 332.018(2)Term: 4 years
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Mel Fuller
(N)
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Jeremiah Radka
(N)
What skills and experience do you bring to school board service?
What is your understanding of the District’s obligations to comply with federal and state education policies?
How would you address the issues facing the District’s schools that you consider the most urgent?
Town Where You Live
Salem, Oregon
County
Marion
I bring a career of serving underserved populations with strength in areas of seniors, unhoused neighbors, and those facing food insecurity. I worked for Marion Polk Food Share managing their Meals on Wheels Program for nearly seven years. I have served on advisory boards for Center 50+, Salem Public Library, and Northwest Senior and Disability Services. I have led the Parrish Parent Club for two years running, and I volunteer three days a week in my son's 5th grade classroom at Highland.
I honestly don't know. If I had answered this question last October my answer would be much different and probably more along the lines of what a typical candidate might say. I have never ran for public office during an authoritarian and fascist regime before.
I think the most urgent is protecting our kids' civil rights, raising the literacy scores (Oregon has some of the worst in the nation, and Salem-Keizer has some of the lowest in the state), and fostering a sense of community so our schools can thrive.
I’m a parent, business owner, and problem-solver who believes in transparency, results, and accountability. With three kids and no political agenda, I bring a practical, real-world mindset to help fix a system that too often leaves families frustrated.
Our schools must comply with legal mandates. But more importantly, they must deliver results–regardless of state and national politics. That means using data, enforcing standards, and making sure our district's policies actually help students learn and succeed.
We need to get back to basics. That starts with making sure every student can read by third grade, because early literacy affects everything else. We also must restore safety and order in our schools—teachers and students can’t succeed in chaotic classrooms. I support clearer rules, consistent discipline, and partnerships with local law enforcement, including bringing back school resource officers where needed. Finally, we need more real-world learning—life skills, hands-on programs, and job readiness so students graduate prepared for whatever comes next.
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