Change Address

VOTE411 Voter Guide

Linn-Benton-Lincoln Education Service District Director Zone 4

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 must be a registered voter and a resident of the district for at least 1 year. Employees of the district are not eligible. ORS 334.090(5), 334.090(6).Term: 4 years

Click a candidate icon to find more information about the candidate. To compare two candidates, click the "compare" button. To start over, click a candidate icon.

  • Candidate picture

    Denise Hughes-Tafen
    (N)

  • Candidate picture

    Camille Kaplan
    (N)

Biographical Information

What relevant skills and experience do you bring to this position?

What functions of the ESD are most important to you?

How can the ESD better serve the area’s school districts?

Contact Phone 541-357-7067
Campaign Phone (public) 541-357-7067
YouTube Video (leave blank if not applicable) http://https://youtu.be/rrMA1sm7m28
Town Where You Live Corvallis
Your Experience/Qualifications I have a Ph.D. in Education and Masters in Early Intervention/ Early Childhood Special Education (EI/ ECSE) and also in International Studies. My Bachelors is in Agriculture. I am currently a Faculty member at Linn Benton Community College. I am an EI/ ECSE Specialist and have worked in this field for many years. I've served on the Board for the Corvallis Multicultural and Literacy Center. I have also participated on Advisory Committees for the Corvallis School District. e.g., (DELTA).
County Benton
Term 4 years
Term Expires 2029
I have a good understanding of the role of ESDs. I am a parent who has received ESD services. I have also worked at ESDs. I have a professional background in Early Intervention and Early Childhood Special Education. I have worked in this position supporting children and families.

I am an advocate and an Educator. I have served on advisory teams to Boards and have experience as a Board member. I am a listener and a learner. I know how to work with different stakeholders and bring diverse voices together. I ask critical questions and seek out data and other forms of inquiry to inform my decisions. Additionally, I am a creative problem solver; I think outside the box. In my work I center equity, voice and belonging.

All areas of function are important. However what stands out to me is the work the ESD does that impacts vulnerable populations. This includes their provision of EI/ ECSE services. It also includes their work with school districts especially rural districts.

Another area of function that is important are the Special Education services they provide e.g. evaluation services and services for low incidence disabilities and other severe disabilities. The role of the ESD is linked of the dream of IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Educational Act). The dream that all children with disabilities should have access to resources that are inclusive and are supported so that they can participate to in the world to the fullest extent possible.
- The ESD can better serve by strengthening the relationships between school districts and the ESD. This includes developing better relationships with other school boards and district administrators.

- Interacting more with families. This includes participating in local events and attending forums to better understand the needs of the community, especially underrepresented communities.

- Increased communication with all stakeholders about what the ESD offers in many different languages. Transparency, equity and personalized quality services should be the goal.

-Ensure that ESD teachers and staff are being cared for; that their wellbeing is centered. Without teachers and other staff the ESD will not be able to fulfill their role .
Candidate has not yet responded.
Candidate has not yet responded.
Candidate has not yet responded.