Hood River County School District School Board, at large

Why should residents consider you for the school board’s at large position?

I offer a fresh and thoughtful perspective grounded in real-world experience. My wife, Meleah, and I are proud to have raised our two children in this district, and we’re deeply grateful for the opportunities it has provided. I know we can do even more to ensure students remain at the center of every decision.

With a foundation in business, I bring a focus on strategic prioritization, disciplined decision-making, and strong financial stewardship. As we prepare to update the district’s strategic plan and make important decisions about our facilities, I hope to contribute a perspective that supports our students and community.

What do you see as the school district’s greatest challenge going forward?

The recent budget adjustments underscored the importance of strengthening the bridge between the district and our community. We must ensure we maintain the fiscal responsibility the community expects while improving the educational resources needed to enhance the lives of our kids. We’re blessed to live in a diverse community and fulfilling the educational needs of each student must remain the focus of the school board. Class sizes, fair pay, and access to programs all remain top issues for us to solve in the coming years.

What changes do you think the district needs to make to any of its policies, and why?

District policies should reflect the unique needs and common values of our community and not national political trends. I believe we need to stay grounded in our district’s strategic goals and focus on what truly supports students, teachers, and families here at home. Policy changes should be data-driven, transparent, and aligned with improving educational outcomes. We must ensure our policies prioritize classroom support and responsible resource use, while resisting distractions that do not serve our students.

How will you support the district’s mission of “Every student graduates with the knowledge and courage to learn, serve, and pursue their dreams”?

I work in an industry where technology moves quickly. I’ll support the district’s mission by prioritizing curriculum that prepares students for this rapidly evolving world — especially in technology, problem-solving, and communication. We must equip students not just with knowledge, but with adaptable skills for life beyond graduation. That means investing in modern learning tools, supporting innovative teaching methods, and expanding career and technical education pathways to reach every student. Whether in college, a trade, the military, government/law enforcement, or the workforce, every student should leave our schools ready and prepared for life after school.

Monica Romero

Why should residents consider you for the school board’s at large position?

I’m a proud Latina, born and raised in Hood River, a graduate of HRVHS, a licensed teacher, and a mom to kids in our local schools — including a daughter with special needs who recently graduated. I know what it feels like to not always be represented. That’s why I’m running for school board. Being bilingual helps me not just listen, but serve as a bridge between my community and the board. Our schools need leaders who reflect our diversity and speak up for families who feel unheard. I’ll work to ensure every student feels welcome, supported, and ready to succeed.

What do you see as the school district’s greatest challenge going forward?

The biggest challenge is making sure every student feels they belong and can succeed. That means more support for students with special needs, English learners, and families who often feel left out. As a Latina mom and licensed teacher, I know many families don’t feel included in school decisions. We need to do more to make schools welcoming — especially for communities that haven’t had a strong voice. Equity isn’t about treating everyone the same, but giving each student what they need to thrive. Our district must close opportunity gaps and lift every child.

What changes do you think the district needs to make to any of its policies, and why?

We need policies that are easier to understand and more supportive of families, especially for those with special needs children or who speak another language. As a parent and former teacher, I’ve seen how hard it is for some families to get help or understand their rights. Policies should be clear, fair, and built with input from the community. We should also make sure all families are invited into the decision-making process, not just a few. When policies reflect the real needs of families, we create schools where everyone feels like they belong and can succeed.

How will you support the district’s mission of “Every student graduates with the knowledge and courage to learn, serve, and pursue their dreams”?

I will support this mission by making sure schools give every student the tools and support they need, not just academically, but socially and emotionally. I know how important it is for children to feel seen and encouraged. I want to help build strong partnerships between schools and families, improve inclusion in classrooms, and support teachers with training and resources. When students feel safe and valued, they gain the courage to grow, serve others, and follow their dreams.

Dan Goldstein

Why should residents consider you for the school board’s at large position?

I have lived in Hood River for nearly 15 years and have two children at Westside Elementary. I have worked in executive search for 17 years, nine of which as owner of a local firm, which has exposed me to wide variety of organizational problems and leadership styles. Beyond personal experience, I see high quality public school education as every American’s birthright and am committed to stewardship of HRCSD to ensure kids can graduate high school with a diploma as well as the critical thinking and educational foundation they need to achieve their full potential.

What do you see as the school district’s greatest challenge going forward?

In the short term, the challenge is navigating the current budget shortfall with minimum impact to students and teachers. In the long term, our challenge is creating an educational environment that maximizes student and parental engagement with school while expanding our view of success beyond state testing results.

What changes do you think the district needs to make to any of its policies, and why?

I have been part of the HRCSD tech task force to make recommendations on use of phones and devices in school, both for personal use and as part of the curriculum.  I’d like to see the work of this group continue to minimize distractions in schools from phones and generally reduce the screen time our kids are exposed to.

How will you support the district’s mission of “Every student graduates with the knowledge and courage to learn, serve, and pursue their dreams”?

I’d like academic rigor to be a focus of the school district and provide opportunity for all students to experience what its like to set goals and develop the necessary grit and dedication needed to achieve them. The end of school is when life’s real challenges begin and our students deserve to be adequately prepared for them.

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Columbia Gorge News will provide a Facebook Live stream of the Rotary’s HRCSD board candidate forum May 1 beginning at noon. Go to facebook.com/gorgenews.