2023 Candidate for Olympia, WA School Board - Leslie Van Leishout

Leslie Van Leishout is a dedicated candidate running for the Olympia School Board in August 2023. With over 30 years of experience in education, Leslie has served as a teacher and administrator at various levels, from preschool to higher education. Throughout her career, she has actively managed programs addressing critical issues such as homelessness, foster care, mental health, nursing, counseling, attendance, gender equity, and students with disabilities. Her commitment to education and community has led her to serve on the board of the Little Red Schoolhouse and the Thurston County Homeless Advisory Committee.

Leslie Van Leishout is a passionate advocate for marginalized and disenfranchised children. As a mother of six children and four grandchildren, all of whom have attended the Olympia School District, she has a personal stake in ensuring the success of every student. Leslie believes in the power of transparency and accountability and has put these values into action throughout her career. However, she refuses to stand on the sidelines any longer, recognizing the need for modern, data-driven solutions to address the challenges our schools face today.

With Leslie's extensive experience in education, her involvement in the local arts scene, and her commitment to addressing social needs, she is the ideal candidate to bring a calm focus to the Olympia School District. Having lived in the community for 37 years, Leslie has deep roots and a thorough understanding of the unique characteristics of the district. She has a proven track record of excellence as both a teacher and administrator, transforming a high school theatre department into an outstanding program recognized nationally. Additionally, her tireless volunteer work with organizations like the Little Red Schoolhouse and the Thurston County Homeless Advisory Committee demonstrates her dedication to supporting families and connecting them with essential resources.

Leslie Van Leishout is devoted to evidence-based change and has actively contributed to the development of national and state education standards. She understands the importance of college prep classes and career and technical education programs, striving to balance the diverse needs of the Olympia School District student population. Drawing from her personal experience as a mother and administrator, Leslie places a strong emphasis on robust special education programs, including early learning and alternative education. Throughout her life, Leslie has been a trailblazer, breaking barriers as the first female lighting designer at her undergraduate university and advocating for women's rights in childbirth and public nursing. She continues to be at the forefront of positive change, championing the cause of homeless and foster care youth while working towards destigmatizing mental health.

By electing Leslie Van Leishout to the Olympia School Board, voters can ensure that their schools are led by a candidate with extensive experience, a deep commitment to the community, and a genuine passion for the well-being and success of every student. Learn more about her candidacy:
Website: https://www.leslie4schools.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LeslieVanLeishoutforOSDdistrict4/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leslie.4.schools/

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DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent.