Endorsed by the Bellevue Reporter. The Bellevue Reporter says,  “There’s no confusion here – vote to keep Johnson on the board.  Johnson has the smarts, experience and disposition to make sure Bellevue schools continue to give our kids the best education.”

“Betsy’s expertise, creativity and advocacy have strengthened Bellevue’s schools. Our community needs her continued leadership.” Senator Rodney Tom

In 2010, I was chosen from a group of highly-qualified candidates to complete the term of a retiring Bellevue School Board member. The current members of the school board were seeking a highly-engaged individual with proven educational leadership, an ability to provide vision and challenge, a collaborative approach to solving strategic issues and a commitment to innovation and research-based initiatives. It was an honor to be chosen and charged with this essential district leadership.

“Intelligence, knowledge, passion, time commitment, experience, interpersonal skills and connections make Betsy an outstanding board member that enables Bellevue Schools to continue to improve toward offering that exceptional education all children deserve.” Judy Bushnell, Former Bellevue School Board President

In my first year as a Bellevue School Board member, I’ve dedicated more than 1,000 hours to listening, understanding, collaborating, researching, strategizing, representing and communicating about what it takes to move our district from first class to world class. And I’ve enjoyed it immensely.

I have spent time in district schools in every geographic area and at every instructional level from preschool to high school meeting parents, teachers and kids. I also reviewed targeted achievement goals, observed classroom learning and looked at portfolios of student work. The time in our schools allows me to see firsthand how our policies and practices impact learning.

“Smart. Objective. Thoughtful. Long term oriented. Not owned by special interest groups. A solid leader that can drive better performance across our public school system. Steve Singh, CEO of Concur*.” Steve Singh, CEO Concur

I have demonstrated my commitment to educational leadership through front line roles. I have been a classroom parent, 3-year youth soccer board member, 10-year PTSA volunteer, past PTSA and Bellevue Schools Foundation president, and currently serve as a Bellevue School Board member. In addition, I’ve advocated for education interests in Olympia and Washington DC for many years.

In case educational theory and principles become too lofty, I am regularly grounded by my four children who are currently in elementary, middle and high schools within the Bellevue School District. Educational policies affect children and families every day and I am living it.

I have been and will continue to be open and available for informal meetings with parents and community members. This will always be a cornerstone of my commitment in advocating for the finest public school experience Bellevue can offer our kids. We are accountable for the successful experience of each child in this district.

“As the school board representative to the Bellevue Schools Foundation, Betsy provides knowledgeable guidance and good-natured wisdom that is always focused on what is best for Bellevue’s kids.” Jeff Hansen, Immediate Past President, Bellevue Schools Foundation*

I have continually been impressed with the work ethic, commitment, respectful collaboration and vision of my school board colleagues. It’s a team with tangible achievements, innovation and accountability right now. We’ve accomplished much and we have much more to accomplish.

I ask for your vote so I may continue moving the Bellevue School District from first class to world class. Our school board representation is not divided by geographical areas; all voters in the Bellevue School District select all the school board directors. Thanks in advance for your thoughtful consideration and support of my candidacy.

Betsy Johnson

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