“David Olson has valuable experience as an 11-year member of Gig Harbor’s Peninsula School Board, where students post results well above average.”
Seattle Times Editorial Board 6/9/2024
About David
A devoted husband, father of four, and retired U.S. Navy Chief Warrant Officer. Raised in a small town, David learned the values of hard work, integrity, and community from an early age. These principles guided him throughout his 28-year military career and continue to influence his approach to leadership and service. He and his wife, Tonia, have been married for 26 years, and together they’ve raised their children in the Peninsula School District, where David has also dedicated over a decade of service on the School Board.
When he’s not working or volunteering, David enjoys spending quality time with his family, exploring the beautiful outdoors of Washington, and staying active in his local community. Now, driven by his deep commitment to education—fostered by having five family members who are teachers, including his wife, son, and sister —David is stepping up to lead our education system with a mission to prioritize student success and ensure equitable educational opportunities for all.
A Proven Leader and Advocate
David’s journey began with his enlistment in the U.S. Navy right out of high school. Entering as a junior enlisted and training as an electrician, he soon took on the demanding and exhilarating role of a Navy Diver. His duties included underwater welding and ship maintenance, experimental and saturation diving, and various classified projects that tested his skills and resilience. Over a 28-year career, he rose to the rank of Chief Warrant Officer.
Settling in the Peninsula School District since 2005, he ensured his children received a high-quality education—a choice he believes should be available to every parent. With education being a cornerstone of his family and values, David is deeply passionate about ensuring that all students have access to the best possible education.
A Community Servant
Elected to the Peninsula School District Board in 2013, and twice re-elected since, David has held various leadership roles, including President, Vice President, and his boards Legislative Representative for his entire tenure. Additionally, in 2015, he was elected to the Pierce County Charter Review Commission. His deep connection to his community drives his passion for making it the best place to live and raise a family. His extensive local involvement underscores his dedication to community and educational improvement.
Vision for Washington's Future
· Prioritizing Student Achievement: Providing essential resources to close the achievement gap.
· Equitable Funding: Reforming outdated funding models to allocate resources where they are needed most – especially fully funding special education.
· Empowering Parental Involvement: Ensuring parents are informed and involved in decision-making processes.
· Restoring Local Control: Empowering school boards to make community-focused decisions that reflect their community’s values.
Why Washington Needs David Olson
Washington’s students deserve a Superintendent who advocates for them, collaborates with local districts, and prioritizes their success. David Olson’s proven leadership, deep-rooted passion for education, and strategic vision make him the ideal candidate to transform our education system. Join us in supporting David Olson to ensure a brighter future for all of Washington's children. Together, let's make a lasting impact.
THE PLATFORM
David Olson - A Clear Choice for Washington Student's Future
Having served on the school board for over a decade, David Olson’s unwavering commitment to community service and educational excellence is evident. His extensive experience navigating complex challenges underscores his dedication to implementing non-partisan, pragmatic solutions that prioritize student achievement, well-being, and the voices of parents. As Superintendent, Olson is committed to leading Washington’s schools toward a brighter, more equitable future.
Academic Performance
Despite an average statewide expenditure of $18,287 per student in 2023, under the current Superintendent’s leadership, only 50.7% of students met state standards in English Language Arts (ELA), 39.1% in math, and 42.9% in science. The achievement gaps between low-income and affluent students have also widened. As Superintendent, Olson will focus on targeted academic interventions and improved teaching practices to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed. Olson will also maintain highly capable/gifted programs and AP classes to ensure advanced students have opportunities for academic rigor. Olson also will advocate that school districts do more to provide tutors and mentors to lift up struggling students - and will lobby the state to fund them.
In the Peninsula School District, under David Olson’s leadership, the district ranked in the top 10% of Washington’s public-school districts, with test results well above the state average in reading, math, and science. This success is the result of Olson’s commitment to high academic standards, early intervention programs, and data-driven decision-making.
Special Education
The current leadership at OSPI has been criticized for underfunding special education, leaving many families feeling unheard and underserved. Parents have reported a lack of responsiveness to their children’s needs, while funds have been diverted to lawsuits instead of essential services.
David Olson has a track record of prioritizing special education. During the pandemic, his district worked collaboratively with the teacher’s union to provide in-person learning for special education students from day one, avoiding disruptions in services. Moving forward, Olson will advocate for equitable funding for special education statewide and ensure that every student, regardless of their abilities, receives the services they need to thrive.
Mental Health
Under the current OSPI leadership, student mental health has deteriorated, with Washington ranking #49 for teen suicide rate and #42 for substance abuse. Chronic absenteeism has also doubled. As Superintendent, Olson will prioritize addressing this crisis. His district was the first in Washington to implement policies reducing cellphone and banning social media use in schools, directly improving student focus and well-being. Olson's district has also expanded mental health resources, including hiring additional psychologists and counselors, and partnered with local organizations and parents to provide comprehensive support. These efforts resulted in one of the lowest absentee rates in the state and positive feedback from students, parents, and educators. As Superintendent, Olson will scale these successful programs statewide to ensure every student has access to the mental health support they need.
A Champion for Parental and Family Involvement
David Olson understands that when parents are actively involved in their children’s education, student success rates soar. In the Peninsula School District, Olson worked to ensure parents had a seat at the table—serving on curriculum committees, parent advisory boards, audit committees, and more. This collaborative approach has not only improved outcomes but has also strengthened trust between families and schools.
As Superintendent, Olson will continue to champion parental involvement, creating new opportunities for families to engage with their schools and contribute to decision-making processes. Every parent deserves a voice in their child’s education, and Olson will ensure that voice is heard.
A Commitment to Equitable and Common-Sense Funding
The current Superintendent has failed to equitably fund educational operations, with the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education citing mismanagement of $2.9 billion in federal COVID ESSR funds. This mismanagement has widened the learning gap and left many districts struggling to balance their budgets. OSPI's mismanagement of ESSER funds and delayed financial oversight have caused real harm to Washington schools, leading to a loss of trust, resources, and stability during a time of crisis.
David Olson’s leadership on the Peninsula School Board has demonstrated a commitment to financial responsibility. His district built six new schools on time and under budget, while avoiding reliance on short-term federal funding for operations and preventing teacher layoffs. As Superintendent, Olson will push for a fair and effective funding solution that ensures every district—regardless of wealth—receives the resources necessary to succeed.
He will work closely with the legislature to reform the outdated funding model, ensuring the state meets its constitutional duty to fully fund education. Local levies should not be the primary source of funding, and Olson will fight for a system that works for all students, not just those in wealthier districts.
A Vision for the Future
David Olson’s vision for Washington’s schools is simple: put students first. His experience in balancing budgets, improving academic outcomes, and addressing the mental health crisis proves he is ready to lead Washington’s public education system into a new era. By focusing on academic achievement, equitable funding, and student well-being, Olson is committed to creating a school system where every child can succeed.
"David Olson is a dedicated leader who puts students' needs first. His commitment to academic success and common-sense solutions make him the ideal candidate for Superintendent of Public Instruction." – Senator Jan Angel, retired
Focus On Academic Rigor and Support Opportunities
Our public schools should be places where every student—whether excelling or struggling—finds the support and challenges they need to succeed. High-achieving students require opportunities to stretch their abilities. Yet, recent decisions—like dismantling Seattle Public Schools’ Highly Capable Cohorts program—are putting these opportunities at risk. Picture a student, eager to take on advanced coursework, finding themselves with fewer and fewer options.
AP courses? They’re crucial. Without them, our students lose out on vital preparation for college and the competitive global workforce. School districts should consider multiple HICAP models that meet their unique needs.
At the same time, we must also support students who are struggling to meet academic standards. The $124 million set aside for individualized tutoring in the state budget is a good start, but it’s only that—a start. We need personalized and consistent support over time. Grade inflation is another issue we can’t ignore—it hides the real struggles students face, leaving them unprepared for post-secondary education and the workforce. Honest assessments and targeted support will better prepare all students for the challenges ahead.
Currently, the State's special education funding does not account for the actual costs incurred by districts to provide these services. As Superintendent, I will commit to using my platform to advocate for the full funding of special education programs – including full funding for general education para-educators! This will involve working closely with legislators to develop and pass policies that address serious McCleary shortfalls, ensuring our most vulnerable students receive the resources they need. Additionally, I will push for early intervention programs that help students access services as soon as possible, giving them the best chance for success.
Addressing Mental Health and Discipline
Student well-being is inseparable from academic performance. The growing crisis of anxiety and depression among young people, as highlighted by Jonathan Haidt in The Anxious Generation, is alarming. Excessive cell phone and social media use are harming adolescents’ mental health, and we must act now.
In 2023, Olson’s school board passed a policy restricting cell Phones & social media in classrooms. Nationwide we're seeing the harm cell phones and social media is causing to our youth and students. Especially among young girls, social media bullying is creating extreme anxiety and depression - and suicidal thoughts - and cell phone use during class has a devastating impact on academic performance. The new policy has reduced student stress, increased student engagement, reduced discipline issues, and increased academic scores.
As Superintendent, I will work with educators, parents, and mental health professionals to develop clear, statewide guidelines on cell phone use during school hours. These guidelines will minimize distractions and promote a focus on learning while respecting students' need for connectivity. I will encourage all school districts to adopt these policies.
Across the state, teachers are struggling to deal with students with mental health issues. Teachers are not mental health experts, and we must support them - we must find a solution. In collaboration with school districts, I will advocate for the expansion of programs like Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) that focus on promoting positive behavior rather than relying solely on punitive measures. This approach will help create a more supportive school environment where all students can thrive.
Expanding Options for the Skilled Trades
"As someone who built a career as a Navy electrician, underwater welder, and Navy saturation diver, I’ve experienced firsthand the pride and purpose that come from mastering a skilled trade. It’s not just about earning a paycheck—it’s about building something tangible, something that lasts. That’s why I’m passionate about ensuring every student has the opportunity to pursue a fulfilling career in the trades, without feeling pressured by the outdated notion that college is the only path to success."
Across the nation, we’re facing a critical shortage of skilled workers. Reports show that the U.S. has a shortfall of over 7 million skilled tradespeople, a gap that continues to grow as the current workforce ages and fewer young people enter these fields. This isn’t just a problem—it’s an opportunity. By promoting skilled trades as a respected and viable career path, we can equip students with the practical skills and knowledge they need to thrive in high-demand, well-paying careers, all while avoiding the burden of student loan debt.
Offering pathways into the skilled trades isn’t just about filling jobs; it’s about restoring the value of hard work, craftsmanship, and the critical role these professions play in building and sustaining our communities. Olson's vision for Washington State’s education system includes preparing students for a future where they can achieve economic independence, job security, and personal fulfillment through careers in the skilled trades.
By investing in vocational training and removing the stigma around these careers, we can close the skills gap and create a workforce that is not only prepared for the challenges of tomorrow but is also proud of the work they do. Addressing this shortage is essential not only for the health of our economy but for the strength and resilience of our communities.
Career & Technical Education (CTE) (ospi.k12.wa.us)
Achieving Financial Sustainability
David’s School District achieved financial sustainability without relying on one-time federal pandemic relief funds and delivered results.
" On financial prudence, too, Olson’s district was ahead of the pack, avoiding reliance on short-term federal aid during COVID to balance its budget. By contrast, many other districts used that money to pay for counselors and social workers. Now, with the funds set to run out next month, they are caught flat-footed: forced to lay off these aides at a moment of critical need or find another way to pay for them. " Seattle Times 8.11.24
Olson will encourage all school board members to complete training on how to understand public finance documents. He will also:
· Implement transparent and efficient budget management to optimize resource allocation and minimize waste
· Advocate regular financial audit practices to ensure funds are used responsibly
· Develop long-term financial plans to anticipate future needs and ensure sustainability
· Attract and retain students by providing quality education to ensure stable public enrollment. This is critical, as student enrollment drives school revenue. Revenue keeps school buildings open and pays staff salaries!
Chronic Student Absenteeism
Under the Superintendent's leadership, a record number of students have been pulled out of the public schools, and the number of students still enrolled in the schools but chronically absent from schools has doubled.
Chronic absenteeism is defined as the percentage of students missing at least 10 percent of a school year. In Washington state, this means being enrolled in the public schools but missing at least 18 days of instruction. Chronic absenteeism is strongly related to failing courses and later dropping out of school. It is also strongly related to mental health problems including anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, drug abuse and crime rates including the probability of being arrested later in life. Finally, it is strongly related to family poverty and unemployment later in life.
David Olson will encourage school districts to move away from policies and practices that either decouple attendance as part of a grade or have no meaningful consequences for students. Unless a student is in a virtual program or a special situation is set up for a student who is homebound, the expectation should be that students attend to learn and practice the material for mastery. We need to disincentivize absenteeism.
Student Assessment
Most teachers are not fans of what has become of the WASL, now the SBA, because the results are attached to individual students and not an assessment of the system. NEAP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) does that very well. The Smarter Balanced Assessment costs Washington taxpayers a lot of money and its “moving target” character frustrates teachers. Olson believes it's time to reimagine how OSPI assesses student academic progress.
A new assessment could be designed to better align with Washington's specific educational standards, goals, and curricula, ensuring that the assessment more accurately reflects what students are being taught in classrooms. A new assessment could also be designed to give educators more immediate and actionable data, helping them tailor instruction to meet students' needs more effectively.
If a new assessment system were developed in collaboration with teachers, it might address their concerns more effectively, such as reducing the pressure to "teach to the test" and allowing for more creative and flexible instructional approaches.
“During the pandemic school shutdowns, when Olson was president of the board, the Peninsula School District worked with its teachers to open classrooms for special education kids early, confronting the extra damage that Zoom school was doing to these students. After all children returned, Olson and the Peninsula board instituted a ban on cellphones, addressing the powerful threat to learning posed by these devices.”
“Olson, a former Navy diver-turned-banker, also should be commended for emphasizing fiscal discipline. During the pandemic, Peninsula schools avoided using onetime funds from the federal government to cover ongoing financial obligations. In doing so, Peninsula sidestepped the cutoff now stranding districts with less acumen across the state. These approaches demonstrate leadership.”
Seattle Times, June 9th, 2024
To All Washington teachers and staff: I appeal to you - as individuals - who can think for yourselves and can decide for yourselves who should take the top job at OSPI. I believe it is time for change! I will appreciate your vote.
DAVID'S ENDORSEMENTS
Randy Hayden Darrington School Board
Gabe Galbraith Kennewick School Board
Quention Morris Federal Way School Board
Joe Fazzari Colville School Board
Betsy Foster Stanwood School Board
Ronda Litzenberger Eatonville School Board
Loujanna Rohrer Steilacoom School Board
Pam Orebaugh Central Valley School Board
Melissa Petrini Highline School Board
Molly Barnes Monroe School Board
Becky Cronquist Shelton School Board
Cindy Wright Eastmont School Board
Wes Martin Grandview School Board
Tanya Naillon Onalaska School Board
Rick Maloney University Place School Board
Rhonda Dormaier Loon Lake School Board
Micah Valentine Kennewick School Board
Khushdip Brar Lynden School Board
Susan Week Pullman School Board
Chuck West Peninsula School Board
Lori Glover Peninsula School Board
Natalie Wimberley Peninsula School Board
Sherry Larkin Snohomish School Board
Rob Serviss Snohomish School Board
Lindy Mullen Doyle Sedro-Woolley School Board
Gary Wilson Evergreen School Board
Cliff Freeman Blaine School Board
Jim Verburg Lynden School Board
Jeremy Wright Aberdeen School Board
Paulette Gilliardi Eatonville School Board
Lindy Mullen Doyle Washougal School Board
Chuck Hauck Mukilteo School Board
Denise Vogel White River School Board
Trish Huddleston Woodland School Board
Terry Tate Battle Ground School Board
Michael Scrimsher Columbia School Board
Jennifer Killman Mead School Board
Thomas G Anderson Grapeview School Board
Nancy Button Ferndale School Board
Susie Metzger Manson School Board
Katie Perkins Newport School Board
Joline Dixon Loon Lake School Board
Dave Muratore Thorp School Board
Stan Williams Port Angeles School Board
James P Hodgson Quilcene School Board
Connor Krebbs Marysville School Board
Wade Rinehardt Marysville School Board
Hollie Kunishige Boistfort School Board
Micael Cannon Mead School Board
Stephanie Harbell Kalama School Board
Anniece Barker Central Valley School Board
Dr. Donna Eastabrooks Chewelah School Board
Lisa Mathes Toutle Lake School Board
Susan Dorcheus Toutle Lake School Board
Steve Simmons Pasco School Board
Marlene Pfeifer Damman School Board
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Jewish Voters Guide for Washington State
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