Salem-Keizer School Board Showdown: Who’s Vying for Zone 7’s Future?

With the Salem-Keizer School Board election heating up, Zone 7 is at the center of a high-stakes battle that could reshape education in Oregon’s second-largest district. As candidates step forward, voters are weighing visions for academic excellence, equity, and fiscal responsibility. Here’s what you need to know before casting your ballot.

The Contenders: A Closer Look

Three candidates are competing for Zone 7’s open seat, each bringing distinct perspectives:

• Maria Hernandez – A veteran educator with 20+ years in Salem-Keizer schools, Hernandez prioritizes teacher retention and expanded vocational programs. "We need to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world skills," she says.
• David Chen – A tech entrepreneur and parent advocate, Chen champions STEM expansion and AI literacy. His platform includes partnerships with local industries to fund innovation labs.
• Jamal Washington – A community organizer focused on equity, Washington pushes for culturally responsive curricula and mental health support. "Our policies must address systemic barriers," he argues.

Key Issues Defining the Race

1. Budget Crunch – With a $50M deficit looming, candidates clash over potential cuts vs. revenue generation.
2. Charter School Expansion – Hernandez opposes new charters, while Chen proposes performance-based approvals.
3. Parental Rights – Washington seeks inclusive policies, sparking debate over curriculum transparency.

Why This Election Matters

Zone 7’s decision could break a 3-3 board deadlock on contentious issues like school closures and boundary adjustments. Recent statewide test scores showing 42% math proficiency add urgency to the race.

What Do You Think?

• Should vocational training take priority over traditional college prep courses?
• Do charter schools improve competition or drain resources from public schools?
• Is AI education essential, or does it risk replacing human teachers?
• Should parents have veto power over controversial library books?