This position revolves entirely around advocating for our students and improving the quality of their education. It is not partisan. As your representative, I will advocate for the needs of all students and families.
Cynthia Wright believes in students.
Endorsements - Organizations
Stand For Children
Endorsements - Individual
Matt Stephenson, Pres./CEO of Rogue Credit Union
Sunny Spicer, Exec. Director of The Children’s Museum of Southern Oregon
Kevin Stine, Medford City Council Member
April Sevcik
Background
I came to the Rogue Valley in 1981, graduating from Medford Senior High School. It is here that my husband and I raised our six children, who all attended Medford School District schools from Kindergarten to Graduation. That education provided for them the foundation needed to go on to additional educational studies and successful careers. After serving on Site Councils at Oak Grove, McLoughlin, and South Medford High School, I began serving as a Board Director for the Medford Schools from 2003-2007. I was elected again in 2017 and 2021, serving as Vice Chair and Board Chair multiple times.
I am deeply committed to advocating for children. I served as a Facilitator for the Children’s Advocacy Center of Jackson County for 5 years, educating community members on how to protect children from child sexual abuse.
From 2012-2015, my husband and I spent 3 years in Santiago, Chile, serving as mission leaders for our church. We had the good fortune to work with young men and women from all over North, Central, and South America and Spain. While there, I learned the Spanish language and gained a love for Latin people and culture. Since returning, we have been actively engaged in the Latin community here in the Rogue Valley.
When I am not visiting one of my 24 grandkids or engaged in school board responsibilities, you will likely find me quilting. I recently started my own business, which will allow me to pass on my passion for quilting to young people through classes and workshops. For me, quilting is a creative outlet that allows me to explore color, texture, beauty, and history. I am hoping to inspire another generation of quilters who will be able to find joy in a cherished art form that is a rich part of our American history.
The Issues
Now is a critical time for the students in our district. Many systems, practices, and opportunities are now in place to elevate student achievement and expand post-high school pathways for all students. We are already seeing positive results, but these initiatives need time and steady leadership to take root.
I am running for the Board because I believe in the power of strong, experienced governance to drive meaningful progress for students. With deep knowledge of how boards should operate, I am committed to ensuring the district stays the course in this important work. The upcoming hiring of a new superintendent is a pivotal moment, and I want to ensure we select a leader who will continue to move our schools forward.
I believe in constructive dialogue that brings families, educators, and the community together to achieve the best possible outcomes. The Board needs leaders with a vision for excellence- leaders who recognize both the challenges and successes within our schools and work collaboratively to make a real impact.
We can and must do better for our students. By fostering a united effort between families and school personnel, we can build a district that provides every child with the opportunities they deserve.
