Dr. Damarys Espinoza – currently serving as a School Board Director for Highline Public Schools – has officially launched her campaign to retain her seat on the board. The election is August 5.
A lifelong educator, mother of three, and committed community leader, Dr. Espinoza is running to ensure every student has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.
“Students flourish when we invest in meaningful learning, strong relationships, empowered educators, and vibrant communities. I lead with integrity, purpose, and a deep-rooted belief in the power of public education and community,” said Espinoza.
Dr. Espinoza is a proud public school graduate, lifelong educator, active parent, and community advocate. She holds a Ph.D. in sociocultural and medical anthropology from the University of Washington. She currently works for a nonprofit supporting families experiencing homelessness in the Highline community and has co-founded grassroots organizations to advance solutions shaped by those most impacted.
Campaign Priorities
Dr. Espinoza’s campaign is grounded in the belief that strong public schools are built through partnerships between students, families, educators, and communities. Her platform emphasizes:
Cultivating Student Growth Through Holistic Support
- Fostering academic success, career pathways, and supportive learning environments that nurture students’ full potential.
Empowering Educators and Staff
- Championing professional development, classroom resources and infrastructure where educators are respected and supported.
Strengthening Families and Communities
- Encouraging inclusive family engagement and building strong school-community partnerships to promote student well-being and lifelong success.
These priorities reflect Dr. Espinoza’s unwavering commitment to students and are outlined in more detail on her campaign website at electdamarys.com.
Background & Qualifications
School Board Service
Dr. Espinoza was appointed in March 2025 to serve on the Highline School Board. Since then, she has worked collaboratively with families, staff, and local organizations to address pressing issues and uplift student voices.
Personal Commitment
As a first-generation college graduate and PhD, a former English learner, and the daughter of Mexican immigrants, Dr. Espinoza brings lived experience and deep understanding of the challenges many students and families face. She is the proud mother of three children—current and future Highline students—and believes deeply in the power of public education to create opportunity.
Professional & Community Leadership
“I have dedicated my life to creating the conditions for students to thrive,” says Dr. Espinoza. From working as a paraeducator to teaching at the University of Washington, to leading public policy and health initiatives in local and state government, her work has always centered on students, families, and community.
Endorsements & Community Invitation
Dr. Espinoza has earned endorsements from trusted organizations who value her inclusive, student-centered approach and track record of leadership. A full list of endorsements is posted at electdamarys.com. Supporters can volunteer, donate, and sign up for updates on her website.
Dr. Espinoza brings decades of professional and lived experience to her leadership on the school board. Whether in classrooms, government, or grassroots spaces, her focus has remained constant: to create schools where every student has what they need to thrive—academically, emotionally, and socially.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Sponsored Posts like this are paid, “Native Advertisements” that help businesses and organizations improve their internet presence and all-important SEO. South King Media also underwrites fundraisers from local nonprofits. To learn more about how your business or organization can directly reach our expanding, engaged audience in South King County, please email Theresa Schaefer at vtheresa@comcast.net.
