In the Nov. 7 general election, voters in the Morton School District, which spans all of Morton and Mineral and part of Glenoma, will determine the next seatholder for the Morton School Board at-large position No. 4.
There are uncontested races for seats representing districts 1 and 2, which will be held by Sheli Harbaugh and Scott Collman, respectively.
The two candidates vying for the at-large position are incumbent Pat Saldana and challenger Victoria House. The candidates were sent identical questionnaires over email, and their responses had minimal edits necessary for clarity and consistency.
The 18-day voting period began on Oct. 20. Ballots are due by 8 p.m. on Nov. 7. Learn more about candidates and measures at https://elections.lewiscountywa.gov, or call the election office at 360-740-1278. To find the ballot drop box nearest you, visit https://elections.lewiscountywa.gov.
Pat Saldana
What is your name and how old are you?
Pat Saldana, 57 years old.
Why are you running for the Morton School Board?
I’ve been on the school board for almost 10 years and have enjoyed every year of it. It’s my way of giving back to this community. It allows me to make a difference for our kids. To see the improvements we, as a school district, have made throughout the years is incredibly rewarding.
Do you have previous experience as an elected official?
I have been an elected official for almost 10 years.
What other relevant experience do you have in work, life and/or as a volunteer?
Giving back has always been important within our family. Giving back is what helps communities thrive. An example of this, I saw that there is poverty in East Lewis County and many kids have food insecurities. Because of this, I founded NW Backpack Snack program to provide weekend meals for students in need.
What else do you want voters to know about you?
I want the voters to know that the lives of our kids are incredibly important to me. It’s a cliché’, but it’s a cliché I believe in and that is, our kids are our future. I want to be a part of our kids' growth and enlightenment. To help guide them to a place of leadership. To not lead not by their own agenda but to lead by what is best for the community.
What do you think sets you apart from your opponent?
That would be experience. This position requires someone who understands the school system and how it operates. It’s a position that requires open-mindedness, listening to others and looking at what is best.
Saldana can be reached at 360-561-9817 or psaldana08@gmail.com.
Victoria House
What is your name and how old are you?
Victoria House.
Why are you running for the Morton School Board?
To have hands-on involvement in my children's educational opportunities, and to advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves.
Do you have previous experience as an elected official?
Not yet.
What other relevant experience do you have in work, life and/or as a volunteer?
I have many years of experience in leadership in my career, from owning my own child care facility, to managing and running the back offices and point-of-sale systems for multiple stores.
I volunteered with the local fire district until pregnancy and family obligations separated me from that role. I have coached youth sports, and I maintain involvement in all of my kids' extracurricular activities.
What else do you want voters to know about you?
I have a strong passion for speaking up for our children, I have a strong will to listen and I am motivated to keep pushing for improvements within our District.
What do you think sets you apart from your opponent?
I believe my willingness and desire to listen paired with a strong and respectful voice to advocate sets me apart from most.
House can be reached at 360-324-2281 or toribeth225@gmail.com.
