Gratitude in Motion: A Reflection from the Campaign

In life—like in campaigns, careers, and caregiving—there never seems to be enough time. Not enough hours to say thank you, not enough quiet moments to reflect, and certainly not enough space to honor all the hands, hearts, and histories that have helped carry me here. 

So today, I pause with intention and gratitude. I thank every person who has poured into me—family, friends, teachers, organizers, neighbors, students, and especially fellow Mothers—who’ve shared wisdom, laughter, encouragement, and truth along the way. 

Running for office is a challenge. Running as a Mother includes many additional challenges. The doors don’t always open. The expectations are higher. The scrutiny cuts deeper. We’re often asked to separate ourselves—our care, our children, our lived experience—from our leadership. But I reject that. I believe our strength is in the whole story. 

Motherhood hasn’t held me back; it has shaped me. Being a Mother has sharpened my voice and softened my heart. When my daughter helped me fill out my ballot, I saw in her eyes what this moment could mean: not just for me, but for her, and for every child watching. Representation isn’t just symbolic, it’s transformational. We can’t be what we can’t see. 

As an educator, I’ve spent over two decades witnessing what’s possible when students are seen, heard, and supported. I’ve seen brilliance in every zip code. I know the power of individualized attention, the magic of specialized instruction, and the urgency of inclusive classrooms. Our children are not one-size-fits-all. Our leadership shouldn’t be either. 

And so I run. I run for the students who need more than the system offers. I run for the Mothers told to wait their turn. I run for every community that’s been left out or left behind. 

This campaign is built one conversation at a time. One student at a time. One vote at a time. 

If you haven’t yet—please vote today. Ballots are due, and your voice matters. It always has. 

And if you believe in this vision, if you believe in schools that serve every child and leadership that reflects our communities, I humbly ask for your support. Campaigns like this are powered by people, not corporations. Every dollar helps us print materials, reach voters, and keep this people-powered movement going strong. Your support means we can amplify our message of equity, representation, and student-centered leadership in every corner of our community. 

From the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU! Thank you for believing in this vision and walking beside me on the path forward. Let’s keep building—together.  

Video Voter Guide

Thank you to the Seattle Channel for creating this video statement for Friends of Laura Marie!

Ballots are due back by August 5th