Lockwood, Slagle for SPS board

Despite the national political polarization, we can have hope locally! I attended a campaign event held at the home of the iconic Fred Schrumpf for two impressive candidates for the Spokane Public Schools board: Nikki Lockwood and Jenny Slagle. What an inspiration! Both of them have already demonstrated their commitment to fulfill the duties of this toughest elected position. What kind of person would take on a six-year term for an unpaid volunteer position? Here’s who would:

Both candidates have been involved parents and leaders in district-wide committees to improve equity in our school district..

Nikki has achieved impressive change through her participation on the Every Student Counts Alliance. She is from Mexican-American heritage and is raising two daughters with her husband. She was called to this work as she sees systemic issues affecting the success of students with special needs and students of color, both represented in her family.

Jenny is an enrolled member of the Yakama tribe, and has had four children attend Adams, Chase and Ferris, graduating 2012-2018. She has served on the Diversity Advisory Council. She was the first person in her family to graduate from college, and expects to start graduate school this fall.

Both candidates are dedicated to including social–emotional learning, developing a positive school culture, addressing behaviors with restorative practices and avoiding suspensions. Further, they can contribute welcome and much-needed diversity and life experiences to the school board. Both will be role models for all the children who yearn to see people who look like them in leadership positions.

Mary Ann Murphy

Spokane