Seattle Public Schools, Washington, elections, 2025 (August 5 nonpartisan primary)
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Four seats on the seven-member Seattle Public Schools school board in Washington are up for election on November 4, 2025. Three are up for regular election and one is up for special election. A primary was scheduled for August 5, 2025. The filing deadline for this election was May 9, 2025.
In the August 5 nonpartisan primaries, incumbent Sarah Clark and Kathleen Smith advanced in District 2, incumbent Joe Mizrahi and Laura Marie Rivera advanced in District 4, and Vivian Song and Janis White advanced in District 5. The District 7 nonpartisan primary was canceled, and the only two candidates — Jen LaVallee and Carol Rava — advanced to the general election. Click here for more detailed results. Primary election voting occurred within each geographic district, but the November election is citywide.[1]
Election context
The primary elections came after a number of proposed school closures drew public protest.[2] As a cost-saving measure to address the district's estimated $94 million budget shortfall, superintendent Brent Jones originally proposed closing as many as 21 schools in September 2024.[3][4] Then-school board President Liza Rankin said, "This is a hard decision. But it’s the one that has to be made in order to best serve our students today and sustain our district into the future.”[3] The school closure proposals were later rescinded.[2]
In October 2024, the district announced the names of the schools it planned to close — a list reduced to four following community pushback led by a group called All Together for Seattle Schools. It described itself as a "parent-led coalition to ensure SPS schools remain open and amply funded."[5][6][7][8] In late November, the superintendent announced that the district would not close any schools for the 2025-2026 school year and would seek financial help from the state.[9] The board voted unanimously to approve the pause on closures.[10]
On November 8, 2024, a group of parents had filed a recall petition against Rankin over her treatment of the school closure process, stating, "Director Rankin acted arbitrarily and capriciously by advancing a knowingly flawed school closure process, without regard to the attending facts and circumstances."[4][11] After a judge dismissed the recall in December 2024 citing insufficient evidence, Rankin stated, "We still have a budget deficit that has to be dealt with. We are, by the numbers, operating a higher number of buildings than is efficient for the number of students we have. Those are all very real things that haven’t gone away, that we still have to grapple with."[12] The school board selected Gina Topp as its new president during its regular leadership selections in December 2024.[13]
The races in Districts 2 and 4 featured incumbents Sarah Clark and Joe Mizrahi, respectively, both of whom were appointed by the school board to fill vacancies in April 2024.[14] The vacancies resulted from two resignations over district residency issues.[15] One of the resigned board members, Vivian Song from District 4, ran in 2025 for District 5.
In the races below, All Together for Seattle Schools, which opposed school closures, endorsed the following candidates: Sarah Clark (District 2), Joe Mizrahi (District 4), and Vivian Song (District 5). The group endorsed Jen LaVallee, who proceeded directly to the general election, for District 7. The group wrote, "We have an opportunity to elect four board members who will steer the district in a new and better direction. We can reject failed policies such as closing schools, taking away options, rejecting academic rigor, neglecting student safety, abandoning financial oversight, and refusing to treat families as partners in education."[16]
District 2
Clark and Smith defeated Eric Feeny in the District 2 primary.
Clark was the director of policy for the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce at the time of the election.[17] She was appointed to the board to fill a vacancy in April 2024.[18] She earned her master's degree in education policy.[19] According to her campaign website, her vision included making schools safer for students, achieving equity, and improving transparency.[19]
Smith was a mathematician at the time of the election whose campaign website said she ran because "Seattle is facing a budget crisis, irresponsible closure plans, lack of accountability, and deepening inequities. She is running because she wants her children to enter a public school system that balances its budget equitably rather than cutting resources from our most vulnerable communities."[20]
Feeny studied mechanical engineering and history at Stanford University and worked in software at the time of the election.[21] His campaign website stated, "The number one goal of SPS needs to be academic excellence for all. We suffer from a minimum standard approach that is not pushing students to be their best. We have been arguing about seats on a sinking ship. We’ve been pursuing equity by lowering the bar, not elevating everybody to their highest level."[21]
District 4
Mizrahi and Rivera defeated Bill Campbell, Gloria Suella Menchaca, and Harsimran Kaur in the District 4 primary. Additional information about Campbell and Kaur was unavailable ahead of the primary election.
At the time of the election, Mizrahi was a lawyer and secretary-treasurer of UFCW 3000, which his campaign website called "Washington’s largest union, representing 60,000 members across grocery, healthcare, and retail sectors."[22] He was appointed to the board alongside Clark in 2024.[18] His website listed the following priorities: "building a strong fiscal future," "defending our values," and "putting community voices first."[23]
Rivera, who also ran in 2021, earned her bachelor's degree from UCLA in 1998 and graduate degree from Bank Street College of Education in 2015.[24] Her campaign website stated, "I am a mother, an educator, a nonprofit professional, and a champion of the arts. I believe in the power of public education and that we have a responsibility to not only our students, but our society as a whole. The Seattle Public Schools system has the opportunity and obligation to give our children the tools they will need for the future."[25]
Menchaca was a neuroscientist at the time of the election whose campaign website described her as a "Scientist—not a politician," and said to vote for her "because we deserve a school board that reflects the brilliance, resilience, and diversity of our city. Vote for a leader who will fight for transparency, equity, and fully funded public schools."[26]
District 5
Song and White defeated Landon Labosky, Julissa Sanchez, and Allycea Weil in the District 5 primary. Incumbent Michelle Sarju did not run for re-election.
Song was a finance professional and served on the board from 2021 until her resignation in 2024 over a district residency issue.[15] She earned her bachelor's degree in economics and a master's degree in business administration.[27] Her campaign website listed the following priorities: "equity through excellence," "stable, fully funded schools, "a diverse portfolio of schools for a diverse community," "prioritizing student safety and well-being," and "accountable, transparent, and inclusive leadership."[28]
White was the founding president of All Youth Belong, which her campaign website described as "a non-profit organization dedicated to increasing inclusion and belonging for disabled youth in community life."[29] Her campaign website listed the following as key issues: "fighting for high achievement programs," "transparent and responsible budgeting," "supporting students with disabilities," "addressing the crisis of student mental health," and "equity and inclusion."[29]
Labosky was an aquatics manager for the city of Covington heading into the election.[30] He earned his master's degree in public administration.[31] His campaign website listed the following priorities: "balance the budget," "address the funding structure for Seattle public schools," "increase transparency in communication to parents/public," "advocate for collaboration between Seattle Public Schools, City of Seattle, and King County," and "ensure high-quality education for every student."[32]
Sanchez was director of advocacy at CHOOSE 180 going into the primary, whose website said it "transforms systems of injustice & supports the young people who are too often impacted by those systems."[33][34] Her campaign website listed the following priorities: "Building safe, inclusive schools where every student thrives," "ensuring responsible, transparent budgeting that puts students first," and "building trust as a bridge between the district and our communities."[33]
Weil was a member of the Equity and Race Advisory Committee to the superintendent at the time of the election. Her campaign website stated, "How can we trust an institution that breaks its promises, threatens devastating closures without a clear plan, and refuses to truly prioritize the most vulnerable."[35] Her campaign website listed the following as part of her plan: "find long-term superintendent," "rebuild trust & sustainable budget," and "empower youth, our educators & community."[36]
Elections
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Candidates and results
District 2
General election
Special general election for Seattle Public Schools Board of Directors District 2
Incumbent Sarah Clark and Kathleen Smith are running in the special general election for Seattle Public Schools Board of Directors District 2 on November 4, 2025.
Candidate | ||
Sarah Clark (Nonpartisan) ![]() | ||
Kathleen Smith (Nonpartisan) ![]() | ||
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
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Nonpartisan primary election
Special nonpartisan primary for Seattle Public Schools Board of Directors District 2
Kathleen Smith and incumbent Sarah Clark defeated Eric Feeny in the special primary for Seattle Public Schools Board of Directors District 2 on August 5, 2025.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | Kathleen Smith (Nonpartisan) ![]() | 47.9 | 15,080 | |
| ✔ | Sarah Clark (Nonpartisan) ![]() | 41.9 | 13,186 | |
| Eric Feeny (Nonpartisan) | 9.9 | 3,100 | ||
| Other/Write-in votes | 0.3 | 105 | ||
| Total votes: 31,471 | ||||
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
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District 4
General election
General election for Seattle Public Schools Board of Directors District 4
Incumbent Joe Mizrahi and Laura Marie Rivera are running in the general election for Seattle Public Schools Board of Directors District 4 on November 4, 2025.
Candidate | ||
Joe Mizrahi (Nonpartisan) ![]() | ||
Laura Marie Rivera (Nonpartisan) ![]() | ||
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
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Nonpartisan primary election
Nonpartisan primary for Seattle Public Schools Board of Directors District 4
Incumbent Joe Mizrahi and Laura Marie Rivera defeated Bill Campbell, Gloria Suella Menchaca, and Harsimran Kaur in the primary for Seattle Public Schools Board of Directors District 4 on August 5, 2025.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | Joe Mizrahi (Nonpartisan) ![]() | 70.0 | 13,964 | |
| ✔ | Laura Marie Rivera (Nonpartisan) ![]() | 17.2 | 3,423 | |
| Bill Campbell (Nonpartisan) | 6.0 | 1,189 | ||
Gloria Suella Menchaca (Nonpartisan) ![]() | 5.9 | 1,170 | ||
| Harsimran Kaur (Nonpartisan) | 0.6 | 123 | ||
| Other/Write-in votes | 0.4 | 81 | ||
| Total votes: 19,950 | ||||
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
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District 5
General election
General election for Seattle Public Schools Board of Directors District 5
Vivian Song and Janis White are running in the general election for Seattle Public Schools Board of Directors District 5 on November 4, 2025.
Candidate | ||
Vivian Song (Nonpartisan) ![]() | ||
Janis White (Nonpartisan) ![]() | ||
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
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Nonpartisan primary election
Nonpartisan primary for Seattle Public Schools Board of Directors District 5
The following candidates ran in the primary for Seattle Public Schools Board of Directors District 5 on August 5, 2025.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | Vivian Song (Nonpartisan) ![]() | 74.0 | 21,545 | |
| ✔ | Janis White (Nonpartisan) ![]() | 15.2 | 4,437 | |
| Julissa Sanchez (Nonpartisan) | 3.6 | 1,056 | ||
| Landon Labosky (Nonpartisan) | 2.4 | 704 | ||
| Allycea Weil (Nonpartisan) | 2.4 | 703 | ||
| Vivian van Gelder (Nonpartisan) | 2.0 | 576 | ||
| Other/Write-in votes | 0.3 | 91 | ||
| Total votes: 29,112 | ||||
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
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District 7
General election
General election for Seattle Public Schools Board of Directors District 7
Jen LaVallee and Carol Rava are running in the general election for Seattle Public Schools Board of Directors District 7 on November 4, 2025.
Candidate | ||
| Jen LaVallee (Nonpartisan) | ||
| Carol Rava (Nonpartisan) | ||
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
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Nonpartisan primary election
The primary election was canceled. Jen LaVallee and Carol Rava advanced from the primary for Seattle Public Schools Board of Directors District 7.
Withdrawn or disqualified candidates
- Kimberly Early (Nonpartisan)
Additional elections on the ballot
- See also: Washington elections, 2025
February 11, 2025
- Municipal elections in King County, Washington (2025)
- Seattle Public Schools, Washington, Proposition 1, Educational Programs and Operations Levy Renewal (February 2025)
- Seattle Public Schools, Washington, Proposition 2, Capital Levy Renewal (February 2025)
- Seattle, Washington, Proposition 1A and 1B, Funding Source for Social Housing Developer Measure (February 2025)
April 22, 2025
August 5, 2025
- Washington state legislative special elections, 2025
- Municipal elections in King County, Washington (2025)
- City elections in Seattle, Washington (2025)
- Mayoral election in Seattle, Washington (2025)
- Seattle Public Schools, Washington, elections (2025)
- Lake Washington School District, Washington, elections (2025)
- Public Hospital District No. 2, Washington, Proposition 1, Raise the Property Tax Rate for 2025 Measure (August 2025)
- King County Fire Protection District No. 40, Washington, Proposition 1, Decrease the Size of the Board of Commissioners Measure (August 2025)
- King County, Washington, Proposition 1, Levy Property Tax Above the Limit for Six Years to Fund Open Space Projects Measure (August 2025)
- Seattle, Washington, Proposition 1, Democracy Voucher Program Property Tax Renewal Measure (August 2025)
- Shoreline School District, Washington, Proposition 1, Levy a Supplemental Property Tax for 2026 to Fund Education Programs Measure (August 2025)
November 4, 2025
- Washington state legislative special elections, 2025
- Washington SJR 8201, Allow Investment of Long-Term Services and Supports Trust Fund in Stocks and Other Equities Amendment (2025)
- Municipal elections in King County, Washington (2025)
- City elections in Seattle, Washington (2025)
- Mayoral election in Seattle, Washington (2025)
- Seattle Public Schools, Washington, elections (2025)
- Lake Washington School District, Washington, elections (2025)
- King County, Washington, Proposition 1, Emergency Medical Services Property Tax Measure (November 2025)
- Seattle, Washington, Proposition 1, Property Tax for Education, Childcare, and Job Readiness Programs Measure (November 2025)
- Seattle, Washington, Proposition 2, Changes to Business and Occupation Tax Measure (November 2025)
Past elections
To see results from past elections in Seattle Public Schools, click here.
Candidate comparison
Candidate profiles
This section includes candidate profiles that may be created in one of two ways: either the candidate completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey, or Ballotpedia staff may compile a profile based on campaign websites, advertisements, and public statements after identifying the candidate as noteworthy. For more on how we select candidates to include, click here.
Incumbent: Yes
Political Office: None
Submitted Biography: "Sarah Clark is a former foster child, adopted daughter of working-class parents, first-generation college student, and woman of color who grew up in North Seattle, attended Seattle Public Schools herself, and now serves as the District 2 Director on the school board (appointed in April 2024). Her journey through SPS gave her firsthand experience with both the district's strengths and areas needing improvement. Sarah knows schools aren't just buildings — they're the heart of our communities. When others pushed for school closures, Sarah stood up to say we need better solutions. She listens to families, uses data, and focuses on what actually works for all SPS kids. Sarah is willing to do the work to find creative ways to make our schools better for every student, no matter their background or needs. With a master's degree in education policy from University of Washington and experience leading large, diverse, statewide education coalitions like the Early Learning Action Alliance, Sarah brings deep policy and community engagement experience to the board. She has successfully navigated complex education policy challenges, like the passage of House Bill 2556, which created alternative pathways for experienced early learning providers to meet state education mandates, and the passage of the Capital Gains tax. Her background enables her to analyze proposals thoroughly, develop creative and inclusive solutions, and ensure decisions are grounded in evidence."
This information was current as of the candidate's run for Seattle Public Schools Board of Directors District 2 in 2025.
Incumbent: No
Political Office: None
Submitted Biography: "I am Kathleen Smith, a parent of two young children in Seattle Public Schools and a data scientist at Microsoft. Coming from a family of educators, I know the challenges and opportunities in our classrooms. I’m running for Seattle School Board because I want my kids, and every child in our city, to have access to thriving public schools. My professional background in data science gives me the skills to bring clarity, transparency, and accountability to district decision-making. Last year’s closure plan showed what happens when decisions are made without clear data or authentic community engagement. We can and must do better. Families deserve decisions that start with the problem to be solved, not a pre-determined solution. In my current role, I evaluate complex systems and translate that analysis into clear, actionable insights. That kind of disciplined, problem-focused approach is exactly what our district needs. Public education is a cornerstone of a strong and just society. It prepares the next generation not only with knowledge, but with the sense of belonging and opportunity that allows communities to thrive. My teaching experience grounds me in the realities of education, and my role as a parent keeps me focused on what matters most: safe, supportive schools where every student can succeed."
This information was current as of the candidate's run for Seattle Public Schools Board of Directors District 2 in 2025.
Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey responses
Ballotpedia asks all federal, state, and local candidates to complete a survey and share what motivates them on political and personal levels. The section below shows responses from candidates in this race who completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
Survey responses from candidates in this race
Click on a candidate's name to visit their Ballotpedia page.
Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.
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Sarah Clark (Nonpartisan)
I’m committed to providing strong fiscal oversight and bringing more resources to the classroom through better management, not by rushing to close schools or cancel programs. I’m chairing the first budget committee in nearly 3 years to examine the details, ensure wise management, provide smart recommendations, and eliminate wasteful spending, so more dollars reach our students in their classrooms.
SEATTLE SCHOOLS MUST BE SAFER FOR STUDENTS
Seattle Public Schools must be safer for students. Students can’t succeed while threatened with physical and sexual violence; the Seattle School Board must prioritize short- and long-term ways to improve student safety in schools. These efforts must include our students’ social and emotional safety. Seattle Public Schools needs to invest in commonsense opportunities, like increasing access to social workers, expanding student affinity spaces, and restoring safe haven programs, like music and the arts.
SEATTLE SCHOOLS MUST REBUILD PUBLIC TRUST
Kathleen Smith (Nonpartisan)
Seattle deserves a school district that makes decisions based on data and authentic community engagement, not rushed plans or pre‑determined outcomes. The closure plan, confusing enrollment policies, and other recent missteps show what happens when the process breaks down. As a data scientist, I know how to cut through complexity, ask hard and clarifying questions, and focus on solving the real problem. Choices must be grounded not just in data and equity, but in what actually serves our students and communities.
Fund our classrooms:
Seattle’s schools face a budget crisis, but austerity is not the answer. My priority is to make the budget transparent, ensure resources are used responsibly, and advocate for progressive revenue so schools are fully funded without overburdening working families. Responsible budgeting means putting classroom learning first, supporting educators with fair pay, adequate resources, and the stability they need to help every student succeed.
Listen to the community:
Sarah Clark (Nonpartisan)
Kathleen Smith (Nonpartisan)
Kathleen Smith (Nonpartisan)
Sarah Clark (Nonpartisan)
School board directors must prioritize student safety — both physical and emotional. Students cannot learn when they feel threatened or unsupported. This requires investing in social workers, restoring access to programs that serve as safe havens, and addressing violence in our schools through both immediate interventions and long-term systemic improvements.
Transparency and accountability are non-negotiable responsibilities. Directors must ensure families receive comprehensive information before major decisions are made, create genuine two-way communication channels with communities, and demonstrate that public feedback actually influences policy. Rebuilding trust requires showing our work and being accessible to the families we serve.
A director must champion equity to serve all students — not hide behind a narrow definition that justifies predetermined outcomes. This means advocating for special education students, English language learners, highly capable learners, and every child with unique needs who often gets overlooked in board discussions.
Finally, effective directors are coalition builders who listen to diverse stakeholders, find common ground across political divides, and craft solutions that will work. The job requires challenging the status quo when necessary, asking hard questions about priorities, and making difficult decisions, while centering students’ needs. Above all, board directors must remember that schools are alive — they are community hearts, not just buildings on a spreadsheet.Kathleen Smith (Nonpartisan)
That means supervising the superintendent, approving the budget, and holding the district accountable to its commitments.
It also means representing the community. The board is responsible for listening deeply, communicating clearly, and ensuring that decisions reflect shared values.
Finally, setting a vision isn’t just about policy; it’s about leadership. It requires building strong working relationships with district staff and creating the conditions where students, educators, and families can thrive.Sarah Clark (Nonpartisan)
Kathleen Smith (Nonpartisan)
Kathleen Smith (Nonpartisan)
Kathleen Smith (Nonpartisan)
Board members also represent the community. They listen, communicate clearly, and help set a vision for public education.
This work requires systems thinking, not micromanaging classrooms. Board members should focus on the big picture: building the conditions where students, educators, and families can thrive.Kathleen Smith (Nonpartisan)
Kathleen Smith (Nonpartisan)
I would ask for data to identify gaps in access, outcomes, and opportunity and work with district staff to address them with care and accountability. I’d prioritize listening to diverse voices, including student-led groups like the Seattle Student Union, NAACP Youth Council, WA Bus, Associated Student Body, and our student board members.
Supporting educators is also essential. I’d advocate for policies and budgets that reflect their needs and expertise, and ensure they have the resources and respect required to serve students well.
Meeting diverse needs isn’t about one-size-fits-all solutions. It’s about building systems that respond to real people, and making sure every student has the chance to thrive.Kathleen Smith (Nonpartisan)
I’d also invite collaboration with community organizations that reflect the diversity of our district. While I won’t be able to meet with every group personally, I’ll work to make board processes more transparent and accessible, so people can see how their voices shape decisions.
My goal is to build trust over time through honest communication, shared values, and a commitment to public education as a community responsibility.Kathleen Smith (Nonpartisan)
I believe in prevention, not punishment. The data shows police in schools do not improve safety. They increase criminalization, especially for Black, brown, disabled, and neurodivergent students. I oppose bringing armed officers back into schools. I will push for proven alternatives that build trust.
Transparency matters. Families and educators deserve clear information about safety decisions. Students deserve to see their advocacy lead to real change. I will work with student leaders including Seattle Student Union, NAACP Youth Council, WA Bus, and our student board members to make sure their voices shape policy.
Data safety is also critical. If schools collect sensitive information like immigration status, gender identity, and sexual health, we must ensure it’s not used to harm students. I will fight for strong protections to keep student data safe from anti-immigration and anti-LGBTQ agendas.
Safety is not just about stopping violence. It is about building schools where every student can show up fully, without fear of being surveilled, criminalized, or erased.Kathleen Smith (Nonpartisan)
I also want to work with the city to follow through on its promises. Several years ago, students won city funding for mental health support. Half the funds were never released and that money was never spent. I will push the city to honor its commitment and invest in the supports students fought for.
Supporting educators also means making Seattle livable. We need a city where teachers and school staff can afford to live without constant stress. I will advocate for stronger partnerships between the district and the city to address housing, transit, and affordability. Mental health is shaped by the conditions people live in.
Mental health is not a side issue. It is central to learning, safety, and community. I will advocate for policies that reflect thatSarah Clark (Nonpartisan)
The 32nd District Dems The 34th District Dems The 36th District Dems The 37th District Dems The 46th District Dems Seattle Building and Construction Trade Council WA State Senator Rebecca Saldaña
Current Seattle School Board Members: Board President Gina Topp Board Director Joe Mizrahi
Former Seattle School Board Directors: Stephan Blanford Leslie Harris Vivian Song Lisa Rivera Don Nielsen Dick Lilly Peter Maier
Michael DeBellKathleen Smith (Nonpartisan)
It also means making easy things easy and hard things possible. Accessing basic education should be straightforward and barrier-free. At the same time, students should have real opportunities to pursue advanced coursework, career pathways, language immersion, or specialized supports. Access to education shouldn't depend on their background or zip code.
This kind of environment requires well-supported educators, inclusive policies, and data-informed systems that identify and close gaps. It also requires listening to students themselves, through groups like the Seattle Student Union, NAACP Youth Council, WA Bus, and our student board members.
When we build schools that respond to the full spectrum of student needs, we build a public education system where every child has the chance to thrive.Kathleen Smith (Nonpartisan)
Kathleen Smith (Nonpartisan)
At the same time, some of our current materials aren’t serving students well. Our math curriculum needs improvement. Our early literacy curriculum doesn’t follow state guidance on the Science of Reading. We need to choose strong, research-backed materials, then stick with them and support educators as they learn to use them.
I also support expanding ethnic studies and dual language programs. These programs reflect student identities, build confidence, and improve access to education. They should be protected and expanded, not cut.Kathleen Smith (Nonpartisan)
Artificial intelligence is already shaping the world our students are growing up in, and schools have a responsibility to prepare them to navigate it thoughtfully. That means giving both students and educators training on the good and bad uses of AI. AI can extend human capability, but it can also spread misinformation, reinforce bias, compromise privacy, and erode the habits of thought that help our brains grow.
Our focus should be on building digital literacy, critical thinking, and ethical awareness so that students graduate ready to use these tools responsibly and to question them when needed. In short, AI should serve as a subject of learning and discernment, while human relationships remain the foundation of our schools.Sarah Clark (Nonpartisan)
From the moment I joined the board, I recognized critical flaws in the closure plan: the district lacked the leadership skills and experience to manage such a massive process, there was no genuine stakeholder input or buy-in, and the rationale behind the closures was fundamentally flawed. My attempts to access real information and get straightforward answers were consistently blocked by board leadership. When the closure lists and justifications were finally released, and I began hearing hundreds of unique, justified concerns from students and parents, it became undeniable — this plan was headed for catastrophic failure.
As the sole board member willing to publicly call for abandoning the school closure plan, I took significant heat from my colleagues, facing intense pressure to conform to their ideology. But I knew what was right for our students and families, and stayed the course. Through an op-ed, partnership with parents, and direct engagement with my colleagues, I successfully ended the proposal, making it unequivocally clear to families that the district would not be closing any schools for the 2025-2026 school year.
This wasn't just about stopping a bad plan — it was about restoring trust and changing how we lead. I've since ushered in a new era of community engagement to prevent this kind of information vacuum from happening again, and I am leading the first budget committee in three years to prevent another mass closure debacle. Standing up when it matters most, even if it means standing alone, showed me that principled leadership can be successful.
Voting information
What was the voter registration deadline?
- In-person: August 5, 2025
- By mail: Received by July 28, 2025
- Online: July 28, 2025
What was the absentee/mail-in ballot return deadline?
- In-person: August 5, 2025
- By mail: Postmarked by August 5, 2025
Was early voting available to all voters? Yes
What were the early voting start and end dates? July 18 - August 4, 2025
When did polls close on Election Day? 8:00PM
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About the district
Wrightstown Community School District is located in Wrightstown, Wisconsin. The district served 1,638 students during the 2022-2023 school year.[37]
District map
Overlapping state house districts
The table was limited to the lower chamber because it provides the most granularity. State house districts tend to be more numerous and therefore smaller than state senate or U.S. House districts. This provides an impression of the partisan affiliations in the area.
Budget
The following statistics were published by the National Center for Education Statistics, which is a part of the U.S. Department of Education.[38]
| SOURCE | AMOUNT | AMOUNT PER STUDENT | PERCENT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Federal: | $127,148,000 | $2,472 | 9% |
| Local: | $544,489,000 | $10,584 | 40% |
| State: | $688,415,000 | $13,382 | 51% |
| Total: | $1,360,052,000 | $26,438 |
| TYPE | AMOUNT | AMOUNT PER STUDENT | PERCENT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Expenditures: | $1,333,744,000 | $25,926 | |
| Total Current Expenditures: | $1,050,991,000 | $20,430 | |
| Instructional Expenditures: | $612,561,000 | $11,907 | 46% |
| Student and Staff Support: | $158,306,000 | $3,077 | 12% |
| Administration: | $118,911,000 | $2,311 | 9% |
| Operations, Food Service, Other: | $161,213,000 | $3,133 | 12% |
| Total Capital Outlay: | $246,908,000 | $4,799 | |
| Construction: | $243,343,000 | $4,730 | |
| Total Non El-Sec Education & Other: | $1,827,000 | $35 | |
| Interest on Debt: | $204,000 | $3 |
Students
| Year | Enrollment | Year-to-year change (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 2023-2024 | 50,770 | -0.9 |
| 2022-2023 | 51,238 | -0.4 |
| 2021-2022 | 51,443 | -4.9 |
| 2020-2021 | 53,973 | -3.7 |
| 2019-2020 | 55,986 | 1.3 |
| 2018-2019 | 55,271 | 1.3 |
| 2017-2018 | 54,573 | 0.7 |
| 2016-2017 | 54,215 | 1.7 |
| 2015-2016 | 53,317 | 0.9 |
| 2014-2015 | 52,834 | 4.4 |
| 2013-2014 | 50,509 | -0.3 |
| 2012-2013 | 50,655 | 2.7 |
| 2011-2012 | 49,269 | 3.1 |
| 2010-2011 | 47,735 | 2.5 |
| 2009-2010 | 46,522 | 1.2 |
| 2008-2009 | 45,968 | 0.8 |
| 2007-2008 | 45,581 | -1.2 |
| 2006-2007 | 46,113 | 0.1 |
| 2005-2006 | 46,085 | -1.4 |
| 2004-2005 | 46,746 | -1.8 |
| 2003-2004 | 47,588 | -0.6 |
| 2002-2003 | 47,853 | 0.8 |
| 2001-2002 | 47,449 | -0.3 |
| 2000-2001 | 47,575 | -0.9 |
| 1999-2000 | 47,989 | 0.0 |
| RACE | Seattle Public Schools (%) | Washington K-12 STUDENTS (%) |
|---|---|---|
| American Indian/Alaska Native | 0.4 | 1.1 |
| Asian or Asian/Pacific Islander | 12.4 | 8.9 |
| Black | 14.1 | 4.8 |
| Hispanic | 14.4 | 26.1 |
| Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander | 0.5 | 1.5 |
| Two or More Races | 12.5 | 8.9 |
| White | 44.4 | 48.3 |
Note: Percentages for race and ethnicity may add up to more than 100 percent because respondents may report more than one race and the Hispanic/Latino ethnicity may be selected in conjunction with any race. Read more about race and ethnicity in the census here.
Staff
As of the 2023-2024 school year, Seattle Public Schools had 3,082.84 full-time classroom teachers. The student-teacher ratio was 16.47.
| TYPE | NUMBER OF TEACHERS |
|---|---|
| Prekindergarten: | 54.50 |
| Kindergarten: | 286.55 |
| Elementary: | 1,438.04 |
| Secondary: | 1,303.75 |
| Total: | 3,082.84 |
Seattle Public Schools employed 40.00 district administrators and 188.40 school administrators as of the 2023-2024 school year.
| TYPE | NUMBER OF ADMINISTRATORS |
|---|---|
| District Administrators: | 40.00 |
| District Administrative Support: | 70.77 |
| School Administrators: | 188.40 |
| School Administrative Support: | 211.16 |
| TYPE | NUMBER OF OTHER STAFF |
|---|---|
| Instructional Aides: | 860.15 |
| Instruc. Coordinators & Supervisors: | 276.01 |
| Total Guidance Counselors: | 112.48 |
| Elementary Guidance Counselors: | 41.54 |
| Secondary Guidance Counselors: | 70.94 |
| Librarians/Media Specialists: | 66.90 |
| Library/Media Support: | 0.00 |
| Student Support Services: | 343.86 |
| Other Support Services: | 1,051.10 |
Schools
2025 battleground elections
- See also: Battlegrounds
This is a battleground election. Other 2025 battleground elections include:
- Mayoral election in New York, New York, 2025 (June 24 Democratic primary)
- Mayoral election in Seattle, Washington (2025)
- Wisconsin Superintendent of Public Instruction Election, 2025 (February 18 primary election)
See also
| Seattle Public Schools | Washington | School Boards |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
External links
Footnotes
- ↑ Cascade PBS, "Election raises questions about Seattle schools' direction," July 14, 2025
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 KUOW, "Seattle Public Schools drops contentious closure plan following months of waffling and backlash," November 25, 2024
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 KUOW, "Seattle names 21 public schools to possibly close," September 11, 2024
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 KIRO 7, "Parents call for removal of Seattle Public School board president amid school closure backlash," November 13, 2024
- ↑ KIRO 7, "SPS names four schools it may close amid budget struggles," October 24, 2024
- ↑ KIRO 7, "Parents and students rally for elementary schools amidst Seattle Public Schools proposed closures," November 7, 2024
- ↑ Axios Seattle, "Plan to close 4 Seattle schools prompts pushback," November 13, 2024
- ↑ All Together for Seattle Schools, "Home," accessed July 17, 2025
- ↑ KOMO News, "Seattle school board halts closure talks amid community pushback, budget concern," November 27, 2024
- ↑ KUOW, "Seattle Public Schools drops contentious closure plan following months of waffling and backlash," November 25, 2024
- ↑ Recall Liza Rankin, "Our Recall Petition," accessed July 17, 2025
- ↑ KUOW, "Judge throws out attempted recall of Seattle School Board president," December 2, 2024
- ↑ The Seattle Times, "Seattle School Board faces big changes, challenges in 2025," December 31, 2024
- ↑ Seattle Public Schools, "School Board to Appoint Two New Board Members," April 25, 2024
- ↑ 15.0 15.1 KUOW, "2 Seattle school board members resign following questions about where they live," January 30, 2024
- ↑ All Together for Seattle Schools, "Primary 2025 - ATSS Recommendations," accessed July 17, 2025
- ↑ Linkedin, "Sarah Nichole Clark, M.ED.," accessed July 14, 2025
- ↑ 18.0 18.1 Queen Anne & Magnolia News, "Joe Mizrahi and Sarah Clark appointed to Seattle School Board," April 10, 2024
- ↑ 19.0 19.1 Sarah Clark 2025 campaign website, "Home," accessed July 14, 2025
- ↑ Kathleen Smith 2025 campaign website, "Home," accessed July 14, 2025
- ↑ 21.0 21.1 Eric Feeny 2025 campaign website, "Home," accessed July 14, 2025
- ↑ Joe Mizrahi 2025 campaign website, "About Joe," accessed July 14, 2025
- ↑ Joe Mizrahi, "Home," accessed July 14, 2025
- ↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on July 6, 2021
- ↑ Laura Marie Rivera 2025 campaign website, "Home," accessed July 14, 2025
- ↑ Gloria Suella Menchaca 2025 campaign website, "Home," accessed July 14, 2025
- ↑ Vivian Song 2025 campaign website, "About Vivian," accessed July 14, 2025
- ↑ Cite error: Invalid
<ref>tag; no text was provided for refs namedsong - ↑ 29.0 29.1 Janis White 2025 campaign website, "Home," accessed July 14, 2025
- ↑ Linkedin, "Landon Labosky, MPA, CPRP," accessed July 14, 2025
- ↑ Landon Labosky 2025 campaign website, "Home," accessed July 14, 2025
- ↑ Landon Laboksy 2025 campaign website, "Priorities," accessed July 14, 2025
- ↑ 33.0 33.1 Julissa Sanchez 2025 campaign website, "Home," accessed July 14, 2025
- ↑ CHOOSE 180, "Mission & History," accessed July 14, 2025
- ↑ Allycea Weil 2025 campaign website, "Home," accessed July 14, 2025
- ↑ Allycea Weil 2025 campaign website, "The Plan," accessed July 14, 2025
- ↑ National Center for Education Statistics, "Local Education Agency (School District) Universe Survey Data," accessed June 26, 2024
- ↑ National Center for Education Statistics, "Elementary/Secondary Information System," accessed October 6, 2025
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