The League of Women Voters hosted a forum on June 28, 2023, focusing on candidates for the Olympia School District Board, specifically for Districts 1 and 4. The event provided a platform for candidates to express their views and engage with the community.

The forum began with candidates expressing gratitude for the opportunity to participate and for the community's involvement in the electoral process. Maria Flores, a current board member, emphasized her commitment to improving educational quality and community engagement. She reflected on her tenure, highlighting her leadership in equity initiatives and integrated student support during challenging times, particularly during the pandemic.

Andrew Lehi, a candidate for District 1, addressed concerns regarding declining student enrollment and budget deficits. He expressed a desire to prevent school closures and to refocus efforts on enhancing educational standards and supporting teachers.

Leslie Van Lieshout, another candidate, underscored the importance of education as a means of creating equity in society. She called for civil discourse in decision-making processes, stressing that all decisions should prioritize the well-being of students.

The forum concluded with acknowledgments to the candidates and the media team for their contributions to the event. The discussions highlighted key issues facing the Olympia School District, including enrollment challenges, budget management, and the overarching goal of providing quality education for all students.