SNOHOMISH — Two Snohomish High grads, Rob Serviss and Tabitha Baty, are running for a school board seat being vacated by Sara Fagerlie.
Serviss managed the Snohomish Aquatic Center for nine years, coached swimming in the high school for 18 and created the nonprofit organization Swim For Life that provides swimming lessons to children regardless of family income. In 2022, he joined his wife’s real estate company and is now selling houses.
Baty is the customer service team manager for an aerospace electronics firm based around Paine Field. She is also the president of Snohomish For Equity, a social awareness group against racism.
The Tribune asked both candidates four questions by email and is reprinting their written answers.
1. What makes you the candidate who should be elected?
Baty: “I grew up in Snohomish, attended Snohomish schools and raised two children who attended Snohomish public schools. Schools are a cornerstone of our community. Board members should, above all, be advocates for our schools. My dual perspective, rooted in personal experiences and active engagement, gives me an intimate understanding of our district’s dynamics and complexities. As a dedicated parent, I have used these insights to advocate for pertinent reforms and enhancements that would benefit all students. I have attended many school board meetings and believe my background and passion for public schools is an ideal fit for the school board.”
Serviss: “My experience in the school district as a head coach and assistant supervisor of the Aquatic Center afforded me the opportunity to work closely with members of the board, cabinet, teachers, athletic directors, and the superintendent. I have a unique understanding of the district that only experience can provide. I strongly believe that the district needs to reshift its focus back to academic performance that emphasizes parent transparency and involvement. This belief, combined with my experience and extensive history of serving students in this district, make me the best candidate.”
2. What is the top educational priority for our children?
Baty: “The Snohomish School District’s strategic plan states, ‘every student thrives,’ and I am dedicated to creating an environment that accomplishes that. Facilitating academic excellence by prioritizing staff and student support needs is imperative. Our key educational focus now is bridging the learning gaps to ensure all students are set up for success.”
Serviss: “My top priority is academic performance in core subjects. According to data provided by OSPI less than 60% of Snohomish students meet grade level standards in English and Language Arts, and less than 50% meet grade level standards in Math and Science. I believe we can do better.”
3. How do you feel about the goals of the group Moms for Liberty?
Baty: “Moms for Liberty is a group that believes parents should dictate what public schools teach. Advocating for their agenda to be pushed on other families’ students. I trust our teachers’ work and believe the school board and district should focus on ALL students’ needs and not on a national agenda.”
Serviss: “Not applicable.“
4. Is there anything you believe should change in the Snohomish School District, and how would you advocate to change it?
Baty: “The strategic plan that was created by a mix of staff, students, board members, community members and parents is the starting point for the change we need. Our district has a robust foundation supported by a receptive community. Leaning into the core values of being student-focused, creating a culture of belonging, operating through a lens of equity, and showing accountability are key values that need to be the perspective we make daily decisions from. As we prioritize these core values collectively this will allow us to work towards reducing achievement gaps created by socioeconomic, social-emotional, and pandemic-related challenges.”
Serviss: “I believe the district needs to prioritize measurable academic performance and that every decision should be made in light of its impact on that performance. I also believe that schools and teachers need to improve transparency and communication with parents to ensure that parents are always aware of their child’s health, wellness and academic performance while at school.”
