I have been a parent at Lakeview Elementary for eight years and on Lakeview’s PTSA Board for the past seven, currently I am also on the LWSD Long Term Facilities Task Force, but I have never met Mr. Tepper. If, as he stated, he is so committed, involved and interest in our school, where has he been?
Mr. Tepper claims he has attended “every LWSD Board meeting in the last year,” however it appears he was at a Poker tournament Jan. 12 the same evening of a board meeting (see: http://pokerdb.thehendonmob.com/player.php?a=r&n=59764).
In the Reporter’s Oct. 1 article Mr. Tepper misrepresented that Mr. Carlson was “not available.” I am sorry that is incorrect. In my experience I have found Chris Carlson to be readily available, a frequent volunteer at the elementary school which he has been a parent at for 12 years, participating in science fairs, egg drops, school carnivals, safety awareness and many other events. Personally, I have seen him at many Long Term Facilities Task Force Meetings, PTSA meetings, band concerts and more.
After noting Mr. Tepper’s misinformation and misrepresentation, I looked into him. I was offended by his racist and misogynistic views expressed regularly on his radio show (see: http://www.seattlepi.com/news/article/The-T-Man-has-gone-too-far-too-often-1294948.php). This is not the kind of person one wants on a school board that has an obligation to educate all races and both genders. Please look into Mr. Tepper’s other claims regarding his involvement and affiliation with community and school organizations. One has to ask “has he exaggerated or misrepresented them too?” also, what is his educational background? It appears Mr. Tepper’s current occupation is “professional gambler?”
We want to elect school board members who care about quality education for all students. We know Dr. Carlson works hard for all students in the LWSD, he will continue to work hard to improve education, tackling tough issues, such as curriculum standards, overcrowding and the need for more buildings.
I agree with the Seattle Times and Lake Washington Education Associations, Chris Carlson is the most qualified choice for the School Board.
Karee Oliver, Kirkland
