I am writing this letter in support for Claire Bruncke, write-in candidate for the Ocean Beach School District School Board, representing District 5, seat currently held by John Holtermann. This seat will be vacated due to Mr. Holtermann moving out of the current district.

I have known Claire for approximately five years. First in her role as ASB advisor for OBSD Ilwaco High School. As a member of the Ilwaco Sports Boosters, we worked together to assure requests by the Junior/High School coaches were items the Sports Boosters should be paying for an not equipment the school/ASB would typically provide. She also gave us an in-depth orientation when the rules around what booster clubs could provide were changed. The orientation helped ensure we stayed in compliance with the rules and worked effectively to assure the teams had what they needed to be successful. Our goals were to assure the teams had a way to raise money in order to purchase items that supplemented what the school could provide, both equipment and materials to increase/support their team spirit and to assure items not allowed by ASB rules could still be provided.

Most recently I have worked closely with Claire while serving on the Dylan Jude Harrell Community Center Board. As a community we are building on a dream to create a community center/after school program for the youth on the Peninsula. This center will create an active, supportive after school program in the district, which will have programs not only for youth but their families as well. This center is moving forward not only because of the commitment by members of our community but in large part because of the work Claire has done as our director and her ability to capture the boards vision in this process. She has been remarkable in developing the current after school program, hiring highly qualified staff and having the ability to search/apply and successfully garner financial support as we move forward. She has shown her commitment to building a better after school program for the youth of the Long Beach Peninsula. Our plan for the future is to also provide opportunities for sports events, swimming opportunities, meeting rooms, etc which will enhance the lives of all.

Claire has a unique perspective in seeking this position, having served as a teacher at the high school. Over the past three years this became even more challenging due to the numerous adaptations needed as we navigated the pandemic. These adaptations were difficult for both staff and students.

Our children need an advocate working to stand up for the variety of needs/challenges the youth face every day. I believe Claire would be this advocate, putting a voice to their needs.

She believes in the individuality of our student population. She also understands the meaningful work that can only occur when you collaborate with all of those involved/impacted by the decision This includes the students, parents, teachers and the administration. Claire has the patience and knowledge of the system to pull these groups together to develop long term solutions. She believes that we must work at adopting a strong curriculum that will create long term academic outcomes. This must be based on data showing what our students need as well as collaboration within the system to create long term changes that will bring about better academic outcomes.

As our work has developed on the DJHCC Committee one thing has become obvious, Claire cares about our community, and particularly our children, our families and the importance of creating strong ties to assist in building networks that help the youth develop into caring, bright, active adults in the future. Please join me in adding Claire Bruncke’s name as a write in candidate to fill the OBSD School Board, District 5 position in the upcoming election.

MARY P. GOELZ

Sandridge Road