Jennifer Robinson is one of five candidates running for two open seats on the Sitka School Board. The municipal election is Tuesday, October 6.
I grew up in Port Alexander, just 90 miles south of Sitka, on the southern tip of Baranof Island. After high school I moved to Sitka, and then eventually north, where I graduated from the University of Alaska Anchorage with an Associate of Arts degree. After spending some time in Northern California, I returned home to Sitka, seven years ago now, with my two children. My daughter Krista recently graduated from Sitka High School and my son Caleb is a junior at Pacific High.
My experiences are diverse, from working as a deckhand to serving as president of a parent-teacher organization, to holding the executive director position with the Sitka Chamber of Commerce for over four years. Today I own and operate my own business, JI Design and Photography. I’m currently on the Sitka School Board, and I’m serving as board president.
Education is a key component to the success and economic health of our community. It is through education that we create a skilled and diverse workforce. We should be fostering in our children a desire for higher education, helping them to set realistic and attainable goals, while providing them with the skills to achieve them.
The way that our children connect and engage continues to change as technology advances, and it is vital that we provide them with the tools they need to learn in today’s global classroom.
Public education is under attack. The legislature continues to cut funding, while passing unfunded mandates, putting schools in a financially difficult position. During my term on the school board I have served as legislative liaison for the district, traveling to Juneau each year to advocate for our schools. While incredibly important, speaking up for our children isn’t enough. We have to be realistic with our budget, and I continue to fight for a conservative approach. We have a fiscal responsibility for not just our students today, but for tomorrow’s students as well.
Most importantly, I’m running for a second term because I believe in the Sitka School District and the quality education we provide our students. I am proud to have my child enrolled in our district, and I have been blessed to serve on a school board so dedicated to student success.
I hope to continue advocating on behalf of our students, and would appreciate your vote on October 6.
Due to the renovation work at Harrigan Centennial Hall, municipal elections will be held in two precincts this year. Precinct 1 is at Grace Harbor Church located at 1904 Halibut Point Road. Precinct 2 is at St. Gregory’s Catholic Church located at 605 Lincoln Street. Polls will be open from 7am to 8pm. Absentee/advanced voting will be available weekdays from 9am to 5pm at City Hall (3rd floor) beginning September 21 and will continue through October 5.
