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 yearsCANDIDATE FORUM: The League of Women Voters of Coos County held a forum for candidates for North Bend School Board on May 7; it may be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YoNsZ2tcjQI.
Contact Phone
541-294-0003
Town Where You Live
North Bend OR
Your Experience/Qualifications
I worked at the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors, preparing agendas and /clerking public meetings and interacted with 5 elected Supervisors (similar to Commissioners in Oregon. I was self-employed as a partner in a Transportation Consulting Firm interacting with the Interstate Commerce Commission and CA Public Utilities Commission. I also worked for the CA Public Utilities Commission, Transportation Division. I was elected to the North Bend School District, Position 2 in 2021.
County
Coos
Term
4 years
Term Expires
2029
I was elected to the North Bend School District Board, Position 2, in 2021. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time on the board, attending required meetings, and training when available. I have voluntarily attended additional community meetings, learning about issues that face the district and meeting members of the public. We recently approved a 5-year Strategic Plan after being involved in several months of planning sessions.
It is imperative that the Board complies with federal and state education policies to be in compliance and to continue to receive state and federal funding.
1) Enrollment is decreasing in our State so we must be fiscally responsible. Since our school district IS fiscally responsible, we have had no major layoffs, and we are continually looking at ways to continue this trend. In addition, we recently added a preschool class and are in the process of adding a second class. 2) Safety is very important. We recently added a second Safety Resource Officer and have installed/improved on electronic card locks, vape sensors, access controls, badge readers and intrusion detection. 3) Increased academics are essential. Beginning with the graduating class of 2026, a North Bend Diploma will be awarded to students who complete a minimum of 72 credits and the completion of essential skills testing.
Town Where You Live
North Bend
Your Experience/Qualifications
As a mother of a toddler, I am highly invested in the success of the public school system and our local community. I would like to do my part in making sure the schools she will attend can provide the best education possible.
County
Coos County
I've had a long career of interacting with many different types of personalities. I feel that has given me the skills to effectively communicate in a professional and polite manner. I take people's feedback and concerns very seriously. I understand that my peers and community members need to be heard in a respectful way that leads to meaningful engagement with our programs.
I understand that the school board is required to comply with federal and state education policies.
The first issue I think the district is facing is the extremely low engagement and attendance rates. Attendance is a key factor in student success and we must improve. I’ll partner with teachers and administrators to build systems that measurably improve attendance—and ensure there’s accountability to follow through. Secondly, I believe it’s time working-class families had a stronger voice on the school board. That’s who I am and that’s who makes up the heart of our community. I understand the challenges local families face, and I’ll be a tireless advocate for them and their children.
