The Issues
From my years working on the school board and in legislative offices, I know passing policies or bills is a team effort. I also worked 15 seasons in Major League Baseball. These are the issues I will immediately get to work on with my colleagues.
Put me in coach, I'm ready to play.
Education
Oregon's school funding formula is over 30 years old, and it shows. I'll advocate for a modernized funding model that uses broader outcome measures and accounts for the real costs facing districts like ours. Oregon's students deserve an approach built for the challenges they face today — not one designed for a problem we faced in the 1990s.
Economic Development
Washington County is the economic engine of the state, but like all engines, it requires maintenance. We are facing a manufacturing recession, and the results are felt at every kitchen table. Let's pass policies that really illustrate that Oregon is open for business. Between the Forest Grove School District and Hillsboro School District there are over 50 Career and Technical Education pathways (CTE) that connect students with the business community to prepare the workforce of tomorrow.
Community Engagement
State Representatives should do more than vote on the House floor. It requires a proactive, visible presence in Cornelius, Forest Grove, and Hillsboro. The historical standard of an open door is insufficient in an era where constituents expect their leaders to be present in local spaces. I am committed to maintaining clear lines of communication with our city leaders and school districts to ensure our district's needs are never misinterpreted in Salem.
Connect with the Campaign: info@watsonfororegon.com
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