With Michael DeBell stepping down and not seeking reelection, there are now three newcomers vying for the School Board Director Position No. 4 in Seattle School District No. 1, representing Ballard Queen Anne and Magnolia. Primary Election ballots are being mailed on July 17 and need to be postmarked by Aug. 6 to count.

The contenders are education advocate and journalist Sue Peters, economic development and governmental relations consultant Suzanne Etsey and former Federal Way mayor and councilmember Dean McColgan. Learn more about them below.

Sue Peters

Sue Peters has been involved in the Seattle Public School District as a parent, volunteer, public education advocate and as co-founding editor of Seattle Education Blog. Among her endorsements are Seattle School Board Directors Betty Patu, Sharon Peaslee, Kay Smith-Blum and UW Professor/KPLU meteorologist Cliff Mass.

Statement: “I have the experience, knowledge and collaborative skills to serve and represent the families of Seattle’s schools authentically and diligently, and help steer the largest school district in Washington in a positive direction. … Our district must make fiscally and academically responsible decisions that prioritize directing resources to the classroom. I support an investment in solid and engaging curricula rather than standardized tests, respect and support for teachers, and a dedication to meeting the needs of all our children so they may fulfill their potential and develop a joy for learning.”

More info: www.suepeters4schoolboard.org

Suzanne Estey

Suzanne Estey has had 20 years of experience in economic development and governmental
relations. Etsey’s platform includes properly funding education, a focus on STEM and
community engagement. Among her endorsements are outgoing School Board Director Michael DeBell, Sen. Ed Murray, Rep. Reuven Carlyle, Former Mayor Greg Nickels, City Council President Sally Clark.

Statement: “I’ve spent my career building partnerships that deliver results—working with local governments, businesses, unions and communities to create jobs, train workers and improve schools. I’ll bring a track record of collaborative, effective leadership to the Board. … My commitment to our schools isn’t just professional, it’s personal: I am a lifelong Seattle resident and proud K-12 graduate of Seattle Public Schools. I am the daughter and granddaughter of teachers, and now an involved SPS parent.”

More info: www.http://suzanne4schools.com/

Dean McColgan

Dean McColgan served the city of Federal Way as Mayor and councilmember for eight years. He
is currently the Director of Development at the Museum of Flight. McColgan’s platform includes building confidence in the school board, encouraging teacher participation, emphasizing STEM and being fiscally responsible.

Statement: “I’m running for Seattle School Board because I care about our children having a quality education. I was proud to serve the City of Federal Way as Mayor and Councilmember for eight years where I gained significant experience with establishing policy and managing a budget for a large municipality. I learned that your representatives need to listen, be open to all ideas, and respect everyone's opinion in order to form respectful, effective solutions. Most importantly, I learned what it takes to build a strong community and the importance of education to our community’s health.”

More info: www.deanforseattleschools.org

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