Julissa
SANCHEZ
Seattle Public Schools - District 5
I’m a first-generation Mexican American Chicana, rooted in community, a former SPS student, mother of a sophomore at Garfield High School, and Director of Advocacy at CHOOSE180.
I got my first job at 15 as a summer day camp counselor and tutor for underserved students in the Central District. Ever since then, I have worked with and for young people. Currently, I work with directly impacted young people to advocate for policies that protect our young people from the school-to-prison pipeline, alternatives to incarceration, and gun violence prevention at CHOOSE180.
I’m running for school board because our kids deserve more than band-aid solutions — they deserve leaders who reflect their lived experiences and who will fight for schools that are inclusive, culturally responsive, and truly equitable—Estoy lista. I’m ready to serve, and I am prepared to lead with students and community.
Key Priorities
Championing Safe, Inclusive Schools Rooted in Equity
I will work to ensure every student — especially those historically underserved — feels safe, seen, valued, and supported.
That means investing in mental health resources, restorative practices, culturally responsive teaching, and school environments where all students can thrive.
Raising Achievement Through Representation, Accountability, and Support
I am committed to high academic standards and honest stewardship of our district’s resources. That includes adopting inclusive instructional materials, evaluating district leadership — including the Superintendent — with integrity, and making sure policies reflect the diverse voices of our community. Supporting our educators and staff is key to student success.
Building Trust as a Bridge Between the District and Our Communities
As someone raised in Seattle’s Central District — a neighborhood shaped by Black resilience and immigrant strength — I know the power of community. I will bring lived experience, transparency, and bilingual, bicultural leadership to the board. My role is to serve as your representative — to listen, speak up, and ensure the district remains accountable to the families it serves.
My Vision for Education
I’m running for school board to ensure that the voices and lived experiences of Black, Brown, immigrant, ELL, LGBTQ+ and refugee students are not just heard — but centered — in the policies and budgets that shape Seattle Public Schools.
As the district moves through a time of leadership transition, we need strong, community-rooted voices at the table — voices that understand the barriers our students face, and are bold enough to challenge the status quo.
I believe every student — regardless of race, language, immigration status, or zip code — deserves a high-quality education that prepares them for success in college, career, and life. My vision is a district where:
Students from immigrant, undocumented, and refugee families feel safe, seen, and supported in every school.
Every child is valued for who they are — with schools that affirm their culture, language, and identity.
Educators are equipped with the training, resources, and support they need to teach equitably and effectively.
Families and comunidades are not just invited, but empowered to engage as partners in our children’s education.
This is personal for me — as a former ESL student and the daughter of immigrants, I’ve lived the gaps in our system. I’m ready to help close them — with policies rooted in justicia, inclusion, and educational excellence for all students.
My Commitment to Students
Every decision I make will center the wellbeing, dignity, and potential of our students. I am committed to creating school environments where students feel safe to be themselves, challenged to grow, and supported every step of the way — emotionally, academically, and culturally.
This work cannot be done alone. I will collaborate with families, educators, and community partners, the superintendent and my fellow school board members to ensure our schools are places of belonging, excellence, and opportunity for all. Our students deserve nothing less — and I will always show up with that in mind.
To the students:
I see you. Whether you’re figuring out who you are, learning in a new language, or pushing through challenges others don’t always understand — you belong here. Your voice matters. Your dreams matter. And I will fight to make sure your schools reflect that. You deserve to be seen, supported, and celebrated — not just as students, but as the future leaders, artists, healers, and thinkers of our community.
To the parents and families:
You are your child’s first teacher and their most important advocate. I am committed to partnering with you to create schools where your child is valued and supported in every way. I believe that when families are engaged and empowered, students thrive. Together, we will ensure that your voices — your hopes and dreams for your children — are heard in every decision made for our schools. We are all in this together, and I will always work to honor your dedication and your role in shaping a brighter future for our children.
Conclusion
I am passionate about education and believe that serving on the school board is an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of our students. I would be honored to have your support.