I am writing to express my wholehearted endorsement of Melanie Hess for the open seat on the San Juan Island School District Board of Directors.

By electing Melanie, she’ll be able to continue the work she began just over a year ago when she was appointed to the board to fill a vacancy. After her appointment, she quickly became an efficient and thoughtful member of a team dedicated to ensuring our schools remain fiscally sound, academically rigorous and continue to provide a vibrant learning community for all of our island’s children.

The directors of a local public school board in any community are vital to the success of schools, everywhere. Their leadership directly impacts the school community. As a life-long public school educator, I have seen and worked with many school boards, and I can state without hesitation that our current board is excellent. This board is experienced, considerate and respects the role they have been entrusted with by the voters.

Melanie’s professional experience and personal demeanor made the transition to this team seamless. She immediately demonstrated a dedication to excellence, and a willingness to ask the important and sometimes tough questions.

Melanie’s professional experience, which includes executive positions in her current career, readily equipped her for the role of a school board director. She brings more than 25 years in the technology industry with multimillion-dollar organizations, honing her skills in operations, finance and leadership, which enables her to grasp the financial spaghetti of school budgets and the organizational complexities of all school operations, human resources, facilities, funding, etc.

Most importantly, Melanie possesses a sincere desire to give back. Her engagement in public service began as a member of the Public Schools Foundation, then expanded to her role as a school board director. As an active community member, Melanie recognizes that great schools and great communities go hand in hand. She is as approachable and genuine as she is thoughtful and intelligent.

Melanie Hess will always work to ensure our school district continues to move forward, providing the best that public education has to offer for all the children of this island. Please join me in voting for Melanie Hess for School Board!

Kari McVeigh

San Juan Island