As part of our continuing Election 2011 coverage, My Edmonds News presents statements submitted by candidates for the Edmonds School Board, District 3.

When I graduated from Edmonds-Woodway High School in 2008, there was a 100-percent correlation between poverty and drop-out rates across all five high schools in the district. According to the Washington State Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, the correlation remains unchanged.

The problem remains unsolved and the challenge has not been met. With certainty, we can do the greatest good for the great number of students without sacrificing the success of those who need help the most. I am also concerned about standardized test scores. Although the math and science scores on the HSPE in the Edmonds School District are greater than the state average, they are still only 42.2 percent and 50.5 percent respectively. In a global economy, it’s not good enough to be leading the rear of the pack.

I work at Bellevue College TV Services, and do my own productions in my company 180 Degree Media. I served as Secretary of the 44th LD Democratic Party for two years.

If elected, I will be an advocate for teachers and students. If elected, I will seek the position of legislative representative to lobby against unfunded mandates. If we expect teachers to perform well, it’s only fair that we pay them what they are worth. Students deserve a properly funded education.

Please visit www.nathanyaffee.com to learn more.