I want to say, I have great respect for Emerald Ridge and the Puyallup School District. Following the events Monday, I immediately contacted the Puyallup School District Superintendent’s Office for clarity and there is ongoing dialogue regarding this situation. Here are the facts: several weeks ago, I was invited by the ERHS staff and approved by the administration to discuss confidence and college with AVID students during 3 class periods. I was presenting as an Emerald Ridge alumna in a business capacity. As a business owner working in youth development, a Communities In Schools of Puyallup board member, and an active volunteer in our local schools, I regularly engage with students across Pierce County. My access at ERHS followed school-guest protocol. In my second AVID class, my powerpoint presentation was interrupted. The school’s union representative required staff to stop my presentation and the class was informed that I was not able to continue because of my candidacy for the State House of Representatives. This awkward situation was unfortunate. There was no conflict of interest - citizens who are pursuing elected office are well within their rights to access the schools as long as they are not engaged in political activity. I was not campaigning or discussing politics. The Puyallup School District policies even recognize the rights of its employees, as citizens, to pursue elected office while working in the schools as long as they don’t campaign during work hours. I have received great support from students, staff, and administration. I have not received any reprimand or been informed of any violation of PSD policy/code. I have the greatest appreciation for our schools and staff and I look forward to returning to Emerald Ridge’s AVID program and engaging with students across the Puyallup School District. Our students’ education is and always will be my top priority.
Posted on: Wed, 15 Oct 2014 13:15:00 +0000