Elect Joellen Wilhelm to Olympia School Board

I am writing in support of Joellen Wilhelm, a candidate for the Olympia School District board of directors. Joellen is a leader in our community, where she serves as a board member on the downtown YMCA and was named 2014 policy volunteer of the year.

As a parent of a student in an OSD elementary school she will bring a unique voice to the board. Her professional experience includes: grant writing and organizational consulting, development coordinator at GRuB, an MPA degree from Evergreen and Peace Corps service in Macedonia.

I’m inspired by her commitment to engage by asking questions and truly listening to stakeholders. She brings a collaborative and thoughtful approach to leadership which I have personally observed. She has collaboratively stewarded our elementary school community garden -- helping to connect various stakeholders, linking the program with curriculum and student learning, and championing family involvement.

She brings the energy and intellect to understand and explore complex policy issues. She has demonstrated this with her work this past summer to visit 17 of our 19 district schools and regularly attend board meetings. She knows we have great schools and dedicated teachers and she will ask important questions which reflect the perspectives of the community and be an educated decision maker.

Please give Joellen your consideration when you vote. She will work tirelessly on your behalf, and I know Joellen is seeking this responsibility for the best reasons.

This story was originally published October 14, 2015 at 4:59 PM with the headline "Elect Joellen Wilhelm to Olympia School Board."