In Their Own Words: Meet Shoreline School Board District 1 Incumbent Mike Jacobs

CANDIDATE PROFILE INFORMATION:

What is your full, legal name?

Michael P. Jacobs

Where do you work and what is your job title?

I am a partner in a law firm in Lynnwood, Riach Gese PLLC. 

When and Where Were You Born?

 March 21, 1964

Where do you live now and  how long have you lived there?

Richmond Beach since the early 1990s.

Spouse or domestic partner if any:

Janelle.

Children:

 We returned to Richmond Beach so we could raise our children here and they could attend Shoreline Schools. Olivia (2010 Shorewood grad), Max senior at Shorewood, Spencer and Harrison (both attend Einstein Middle School). All are third-generation Shoreline students.

Education (include graduation date(s), if any):

After obtaining a BS and BA from the University of Washington (’88) and receiving a Juris Doctor from the University of Puget Sound School of Law, Janelle and I moved back to Shoreline in the early 90’s.  

Military Service (include year(s) of discharge, if any):

None.

Memberships and affiliations with clubs and other organizations:

The proximity of the office and my position within the firm has allowed me to be active in our community.  I have been a coach for Richmond Little League for 14 years, was previously a Hillwood soccer coach for many years, have been on the Board of Directors for Little League, past Vice-President, and was on the Board of Directors for South County Senior Center and past President. 

I received the Outstanding Advocate Award from Syre PTA and the Award of Excellence from Richmond Little League.  

Have you or a business you owned (or had principal interest in) ever filed bankruptcy?

Answered in narrative form, no response.

As an adult, have you been convicted or charged with a crime other than a minor traffic violation?

Answered in narrative form, no response.

CAMPAIGN INFORMATION:

Web site: michaelpjacobs.com.

I currently do not have a campaign manager, and as of this date, I have not solicited any donations. 

Email address: mikejacobs412@gmail.com

Phone number: 206-542-1419

PREVIOUS ELECTED OFFICE(S):

Elected: Shoreline School Board 2007.

Other campaigns for public office: Shoreline School Board.

THIS CAMPAIGN:

What is the primary reason you are running for this office? 

What will be your top three priorities if you get elected and why?

What sets you apart from the other candidates and/or previous office holders?

I am currently a member of the Shoreline School Board. During my tenure on the Board, the District has achieved financial stability (from negative $2.7 million in 2006 to positive balance of $4 million in 2010), commenced construction of two new high schools, increased high school graduation to over 90 percent (extended graduation is now 96 percent) and implemented new math and science curriculum.

Construction of the new Shorewood and Shorecrest high schools is very exciting. Our community has been working diligently on these projects for many years. Although ground has been broken, it will take a few years for both schools to be completed. During the construction phase, the community needs leaders that have been through the funding and design phases. I would like to serve another term to insure the construction does not disrupt the students currently attending high school and Shorewood and Shorecrest are completed as planned and designed by the community.

Unfortunately, although our District has its financial house in order, the state is making severe reductions in school funding. We have the financial resources to mitigate the impact to our students for a short time, but if the state does not meet its paramount duty and properly fund its share of education there will be very difficult decisions that will have to be made. The District will need leaders that have the experience to deal with financial complexities and can make assessments that are in the best interest of our students and the entire District. I believe my experience and proven commitment to do what is best for the students and District will be very beneficial over the next four years. 

We have made great strides in broadening and improving every student’s academic achievement.  Through district-wide curriculum and alignment, and meaningful assessments and intervention, we have been able to identify and assist at risk students, while providing a rigorous, exceptional education for all students.  We will need to protect the gains we have made and continue to work on insuring that every student is successful.  Again, I believe my experience and proven commitment to do what is best for the students and the District will be very beneficial over the next four years.

How much money do you expect your campaign to spend on this election?

I do not anticipate spending more than a $1,000 in the campaign. 

What groups or individuals are your major endorsers?

My supporters are generally community members, parents, PTA members, and other individuals. If someone is interested in making a donation, endorsing my candidacy, or placing a sign in their yard, then please send an email to me at mikejacobs412@gmail.com.