The leaders who make major decisions about Salem and Keizer’s children are elected in a way some argue is discriminatory.
While Salem-Keizer Public Schools’ governing board members each only represent a portion of the district, they are chosen by voters districtwide.
Some believe this has historically created a disadvantage for candidates of color or those who can’t afford to campaign across the entire region, leading to a school board comprised of people who do not reflect the diversity of the students and families they serve.
Now there’s an effort to change that.
Read about the resolution, why diversity on these boards matter, why some are opposed and what the next steps are here.
Natalie Pate 