Editor,

I’m writing in support of Erik Mann and John Diamond for Oak Harbor School Board.

Thank you for this week’s article describing the candidates’ positions. We need board members like John and Erik, eager to actually do the work on deep details of budgets, levies, taxation, legislation, labor negotiations, capital planning, and curriculum development. We need open-minded, respectful leaders like John and Erik, who will listen and validate others’ views even if they don’t agree. And we need experienced public servants like John and Erik, who will continue to take Oak Harbor Public Schools in the right direction.

In stark contrast, their one-dimensional opponents bring a single issue to the table – they don’t want children “indoctrinated,” whether it’s CRT, sex ed, masking or vaccines – and they press their points by disrupting The People’s business at school board meetings.

Service on a school board is a complex, challenging job. Erik and John get it. They work hard, they listen, they make tough decisions for the benefit of all of us.

This is a crucial vote for the future of our community. Please vote for Erik Mann and John Diamond.

Thank you,

William Walker

Oak Harbor