Seattle School Board swears in four newly elected directors

The Seattle School Board on Monday swore in four newly elected directors — Jen LaValle, Joe Miserahi, Kathleen Smith and Vivian Song — during a special meeting that opened with a land acknowledgment and brief ceremonial remarks.

Each new director repeated the oath administered by Superintendent Podesta committing to "support the constitutions of the United States and the state of Washington" and to "faithfully perform the duties of director of Seattle School District number 1, King County, State of Washington." After the oath, the board invited the new directors to give short remarks.

Director Jen LaValle thanked campaign supporters and family, said families in her South Seattle community value teachers and diversity, and called for raising the floor for all students so every child can succeed. Director Kathleen Smith said she is committed to humility, listening, transparency and data-informed decisions. Director Vivian Song recounted her family’s immigration story, framed public schools as institutions that must serve all students, and urged the board to combine ambitious vision with authentic community engagement. Joe Miserahi was likewise sworn and congratulated by staff.

Following the ceremonial remarks the board recessed briefly and then moved into substantive business: a progress-monitoring session on district literacy and math baselines. President Topp thanked the staff and the new directors and signaled the board would return to business after the short celebration.

The oath language and the board’s procedures were read on the record in open session; no formal votes or policy actions were taken during the swearing-in portion of the meeting.