Ara Papyan
For Tukwila School Board
I was raised in Tukwila, educated in Tukwila, and I still call this city home. From elementary through Foster High, our schools helped shape who I am. I’m running for School Board to ensure every student receives the opportunity to thrive in a safe, supportive, and future-ready learning environment while making cost efficient decisions that strengthen our schools without compromising quality.
About Me
With Tukwila schools facing a major budget crisis, we need leadership that’s not only experienced with numbers but deeply connected to the people behind them. I bring deep experience in financial and operational strategy from my work in higher education, and I’m committed to fighting for long-term solutions. That includes pushing for increased state investment and holding the state accountable for fully funding public education.
Running for our kids
I want to ensure our students are not only supported today but also prepared for tomorrow—especially through smart integration of emerging technologies in the classroom. I believe in transparency, innovation, and putting students first. Tukwila needs forward-thinking leadership. I believe in proactive, thoughtful planning that strengthens academic programs, improves fiscal responsibility, and maintains stability across our schools. Reducing investment in our schools harms students, weakens communities, and limits future opportunities. We need to protect and prioritize public education.