Letters to the Editor
Letter to the Editor | DuCharme has proven record of inclusion and results
When I was elected to the Peninsula School Board in 2021, I thought I knew a thing or two about public schools. Then I met Emily DuCharme, who kindly (and relentlessly) proved me wrong by introducing me to the complex, challenging, and inspiring world of special education. She does not just talk about inclusion for students with disabilities; she has been building it in our schools for years.
When families needed a stronger voice, Emily helped launch the Special Education Parent Advisory Committee (SEPAC), creating a forum where parents, educators, and administrators could collaborate in meaningful ways. She was a driving force behind the first “Day of Champions,” a district-wide field day celebrating students of all abilities. Most notably, her years of effort to elevate and expand Unified Sports culminated in Peninsula High School being nationally recognized as a Special Olympics Unified Champion School this year.
These are not symbolic wins for a small group of students. They represent a cultural shift that benefits every student and family. Emily’s persistence, empathy, and partnership in creating these opportunities have become central to how our district defines both equity and excellence.
As I step down from the school board, I can think of no one better to fill my seat than Emily. She has been a trusted mentor, offering an honest look into the life of a parent raising a child with complex needs. She understands how barriers exist at multiple levels and that our teachers and staff are often just as frustrated as parents. Instead of assigning blame, she brings thoughtful, actionable ideas grounded in empathy and an understanding of how systems can improve.
Serving on the Peninsula school board is not a new direction for Emily; it is the natural next step in the work she is already doing. She has the experience, credibility, and resolve to make a difference from day one. Our district needs leaders who combine passion with competence and empathy with execution. Emily is exactly that kind of leader. Her skills and subject-matter expertise will be an invaluable asset to the board and the district.
Please join me in voting for Emily DuCharme for Peninsula School Board, Position 2. She has the vision, skills, and heart to help build a school district where every child has the opportunity to succeed and every family has a voice that is heard and valued.
Jennifer Butler
Gig Harbor