Thank you so much to everyone who took the time to research candidates and vote! Your participation is essential, and I appreciate your effort to vote responsibly.

Unfortunately, voter turnout in Orem was only 17%—a frighteningly low number. I’m especially grateful to those who see voting as a civic duty and take the time to learn about candidates and issues before filling out their ballots.

As you can see in the picture, I received the fewest votes and will not be on the November general election ballot for Timpanogos Seat 5. Still, I consider this campaign a success. In just six weeks—without PAC funding or political party backing—my campaign grew from zero supporters to 402. This was accomplished through word of mouth, this little website, limited social media, some door-knocking, a handful of yard signs (thank you so much to those who hosted them!), a PTA meet-and-greet, and flyers for people who couldn’t stop to chat at their door. I remain both an educator and an advocate for education, firmly believing it must remain inclusive and accessible to all.

Looking ahead, I have concerns about how the foundation of our new district will be built. Based on the information the remaining candidates have shared on the Utah Voter Info site and on their own websites, I do not see the depth of professional public-sector management knowledge and experience that this enormous task requires. The new school board will be starting from scratch, building everything from the ground up—not just deciding teacher pay.

I value the volunteer work the remaining candidates have done and their efforts to connect with educators. I wish every parent and Orem resident would do the same. But I also hope they are taking the time to learn about public-sector budgeting, strategic planning, policy creation for large public education organizations, and how to conduct a transparent, inclusive hiring process that attracts multiple highly qualified candidates.

I hope they remember that their opinion is personal, not the same as the community’s. They have promised to represent everyone—not just friends, neighbors, fellow volunteers, or people like themselves—and I expect them to keep that promise. I hope they actively seek out voices from those who can’t attend weekday mid-morning PTA meetings, speak other languages, come from diverse family situations, or belong to marginalized groups. These perspectives are essential for making the best decisions for all, rather than assuming they already know what’s best.

I also hope they work to reduce administrative bloat at the district level, focus tax dollars on student programs, and give leadership opportunities to experienced teachers rather than adding more district office positions.

Seat 5 voters should ask tough, specific questions before deciding. For example:

How often and in what circumstances should school boards approve property tax increases? What are your ideas to avoid continued property tax increases?

What is your facilities management plan, including possible school closures?

How will you ensure uninterrupted services for all levels of SPED students?

How will you support student mental, emotional, social, and behavioral health during this mental health crisis?

How will you serve DLI students?

How will you measure progress and hold the superintendent accountable?

How will you increase participation from students, parents, and community members?

To those who see this and haven't been the most responsible voters- please don’t choose a candidate just because they sent a mass text when ballots arrived or robocalled the night before the election. Look into all the candidates and make your decision based on their qualifications, plans, and ability to serve everyone.

I’ll be back in the next election. Orem is a large city with the heart of a close-knit town, and I want to keep it that way—where people know, respect, and value each other. I’ve learned so much from this experience, and I remain committed to supporting our students, using taxpayer dollars responsibly, and building the best possible district.