As a parent with children in the Enumclaw School District, I care deeply about who serves on our school board.

These roles have a significant impact on the direction of our schools, and it’s important that those elected truly understand the needs of our students, staff, and families, which is why I am voting to re-elect Julianne DeShayes.

If Julianne were not to get elected and the current board stayed as it is then three out of the five members would not have children in the district. Having individuals with children currently in the district brings a valuable and firsthand perspective to the board. They experience our schools’ strengths and challenges daily, and that insight helps shape well-rounded and informed decision-making.

That is not to say that it is a requirement to serve on the board, a mix of voices — including former educators, community members, and parents — ensures that the board reflects the diversity of our district and the community it serves.

I do however think it is beneficial when those who serve do have that connection. While having a background in teaching is a wonderful set of skills, I am a champion for our educators, I think experience gives Julianne the upper hand between the two candidates.

There is a learning curve that comes with the position. I think many are unaware of the decisions that the board can and cannot make. Julianne not only has a current wealth of knowledge when it comes to being a board member, she has a passion for continuing to educate herself.

She not only has the students and staff at the forefront of all her decisions but also the community at large. She continues to seek out different grant and funding programs to alleviate the financial burden some feel when it comes to funding our schools.

Julianne has a proven record of keeping politics and personal beliefs out of her position as this a non-partisan position. I am concerned that someone employed by a Christian Academy might try to push a personal agenda that does not belong in a public school. While you can absolutely be a Christian on the school board, Julianne herself has proven that you can be a devout Christian while implementing no bias, I feel there is a conflict of interest to be employed by a Christian Academy and serve on a public-school board.

Julianne has always had an open-door policy as a board member. Transparency and communication are some of her strongest attributes. She will meet with anyone in the community to both listen and try to help with any concerns they may have. She continues to bridge gaps with open communication. Julianne will continue to be a board member that serves for all while tabling both personal and political beliefs and putting education and listening to all above all else.

Jennifer Wallin

Enumclaw