When Lisa Callan told me she planned to run for a position on the Issaquah School Board, I was excited both for the Issaquah School District and for Lisa.  Lisa has realistic, implementable, and compelling ideas; she is a collaborative team player; and she is dedicated to having a positive influence on this district and the education it provides.   Lisa brings skill, thought, intelligence and integrity to every table; her glass is always half full.

Lisa has a knack for putting new ideas into action.  As five president of programs for the Grand Ridge PTSA, Lisa implemented two new programs: Grizzly Guys, a group of fathers and men who encourage male participation in school activities; and the Cultural Diversity Council, a group of multicultural parents who create and implement a weekly cultural curriculum for Grand Ridge students.

Lisa also brought the Bellevue Arts Museum’s Art of Discovery Project to Grand Ridge.  This traveling exhibit showcases art pieces created by Northwest artists and provides a corresponding curriculum for elementary-aged students.

Speaking as a parent and as a teacher in the district, I want someone like Lisa on my district’s school board.  She is accessible and approachable; she keeps the best interests of the district’s community, staff, parents, and students in mind; and she cooperates with other leaders to find common ground and implementable solutions.

Kari Leon, former Grand Ridge PTSA co-president