Editor,

Both of my children graduated from South Whidbey High School. I am a retired high school science teacher. Public education is very important to me. It is the bedrock of an informed democracy.

One of the most challenging volunteer jobs in any community is that of school board member. It requires knowledge, skill and an extraordinary ability to communicate on subjects as varied and complex as budgets, facility maintenance, state and national curriculum and state laws. It is not a job for the faint of heart or underprepared.

In this year’s South Whidbey School Board election, we have gathered information from the annual League of Women Voter’s forum, the Washington State Voter’s Guide and questions submitted by our local newspaper.

Our three incumbents have answered all these questions with detailed skill, experience and thoughtfulness. Join me in voting for Ann Johnson, Marnie Jackson, and Andrea Downs. We are lucky to have women of this caliber serving our community.

Ann Linnea

Freeland