The event was aimed at inspiring community members to engage in educational leadership by considering running for open roles on the Seattle Public Schools Board of Directors this fall.
The Alliance for Education, Southeast Seattle Education Coalition, Black Education Strategy Roundtable and Progreso recently hosted “Stepping Up for Schools: A Discussion on Running for School Board”. The event featured a panel of current and former school board members who shared insights into the responsibilities and impact of serving on the school board. Panelists included:
- Dr. Stephan Blanford, former member, Seattle Public Schools Board of Directors
- Aaron Garcia, former member, Highline Public Schools School Board
- Brandon Hersey, District 7 Director, Seattle Public Schools Board of Directors
- Korey Strozier, President, Position 3, Tacoma Public Schools School Board
Discussions highlighted the importance of including student voice, diverse representation in governance, equitable policy development, and the critical role board members play in shaping the educational landscape of Seattle Public Schools.
“What I’ve learned in my role on the school board is that we need to have solidarity with each other to focus the attention and resources we have at our disposal to move the needle on what’s going to best impact students,” said Brandon Hersey, District 7 Director for Seattle Public Schools Board of Directors.
Questions were developed and moderated by students from the Office of African American Male Achievement’s Kingmakers program from Franklin High School and Rainier Beach High School. After, attendees had the opportunity to engage in Q&A sessions, network with current board members, and receive resources on the election process and effective board service.
“The hardest thing I have done in life was being a school board director. But also at this point in my life, it’s the thing I’m most proud of,” said Dr. Stephan Blanford, former member of Seattle Public Schools Board of Directors. “To reach our goals, we must elect school board directors who care about south end schools and kids who have not historically been well served by the system.”
This initiative aligns with the Alliance’s broader mission to promote equity and excellence in Seattle. By encouraging community rooted, racial equity focused individuals who will center students furthest from educational justice to step into leadership roles, the co-hosting organizations seek to ensure that the school board reflects the diverse voices and needs of the community it serves.
Later this year, the event organizers will host a candidate forum to hear from school board candidates on the ballot. For more information on upcoming events and resources for prospective school board candidates, sign-up for monthly email newsletter and SMS updates here.