PACIFIC GROVE >> Pacific Grove Unified School District has two open seats on the November ballot. Trustee Areas 2 and 4 are up for grabs, with Brian Swanson and Carolyn Swanson’s terms expiring this year. The trustees have no relation to each other.

Brian Swanson currently serves as board president and trustee for Area 2. He has served on the board since 2015 including one year as board clerk.

Carolyn Swanson was elected to the board in 2020 and represents Trustee Area 4. Beth Shammas is running unopposed for the area 4 seat and has been appointed in-lieu of an election.

The Herald asked the three candidates for their thoughts on what the biggest challenge facing the district is and where they feel they can enact change.

Trustee Area 2

Marie Hunter

Hunter, 52, is a technology consultant and parent of a Pacific Grove Middle School student. She has a background in the construction industry and is the founder of a company that specializes in technology for construction.

Hunter’s goals include financial sustainability, community engagement and establishing anti-bullying practices, according to her campaign website. As a trustee, Hunter hopes to engage students in vocational and global job market preparation.

Hunter did not respond to multiple requests for comment by The Herald.

Mike Wachs

Wachs, 42, works in marketing and design and is the parent of two children attending Forest Grove Elementary School.

“As a school district, PGUSD faces challenges that are a combination of broader societal issues and concerns particular to our small city,” said Wachs. “Two of the most pressing challenges are the rising costs of healthcare and housing.”

Wachs cites data from UC Berkeley that shows health care in Monterey County is 50% higher than the statewide median and premium costs continue to rise.

“Just as prices are rising all across the world, housing costs in our region have put tremendous financial pressure on educators and staff, impacting their ability to live in the community they serve,” he said. “If elected, I will research workforce housing as well as home loan and down payment assistance programs for educators.”

“Student mental health issues and disengagement is another issue that gives me great concern,” said Wachs. He points to a California Healthy Kids Survey that showed 39% of Pacific Grove High students report feeling chronic sadness.

“To effect change, the district must adopt a multifaceted approach that addresses these challenges while maintaining the high standards we continue to set for ourselves … this might include peer mentoring programs, mindfulness initiatives or partnerships with local organizations to provide extracurricular activities and support,” he said.

“By approaching these issues as challenges rather than insurmountable problems, PGUSD can position itself as a model of innovative educational practices.”

Trustee Area 4

Beth Shammas

Shammas, 74, previously served on the board for 12 years. She believes “the biggest challenge for PGUSD is to not get complacent.

A lot of good work was done last year in response to cultural diversity issues and the task now is to make sure the district stays on track with the important goals that were set.”

In March, the district outlined its plan to strengthen its inclusion and equity across schools through community engagement, diverse education materials and various training for staff and faculty.

“As a trustee, my role is to work with the board and superintendent to schedule timely evaluations of programs and goals and make adjustments when necessary,” said Shammas.

“I served on the PGUSD Board from 1997-2009 and I bring that experience to help the district meet our responsibilities for providing a quality education in a safe and positive environment.”