In the May 20 edition, I was pleased to see new names and faces running for public office. Local politics can make a difference for a community. I applaud those that want to put themselves on the line for what can be thankless work.

The people running for the school board were of particular interest. They all clearly share an interest in having quality education on the island. I hope all of those candidates — incumbents and challengers — will use this campaign to take a serious look at the issues affecting the Vashon Island School District (VISD). Yes, national standards are important, but we have some local issues that need to be addressed.

A lot of Vashon families choose to homeschool instead of putting their children in taxpayer-supported public education. Why? The attrition rate from elementary to high school is significant. Why do families abandon VISD for other educational opportunities often at notable personal sacrifice? Does VISD have a culture of inclusion that actively encourages students of all abilities to participate in educational and co-curricular offerings? If not, why not?

Candidates, please dig a bit. It’s not that hard to identify families who have chosen to leave our island schools. Ask around; make a few calls. You’ll learn a lot about very hard decisions families have had to make for the benefit of their kids’ education. If elected, you will be expected to tackle those concerns.

This island community has been exceptionally generous in supporting Vashon schools through bond issues and charitable gifts. Nearly 30 percent of our property taxes go to the schools. It’s now time to ask some hard questions about the district’s stewardship of that support, and what better time to have this discussion than during the election process.

— Jon Flora