Kris Spowart for School Board

Saddleback Valley USD · Trustee Area 5

Testimonials

I’m grateful for the support of educators, parents, families, and community members who believe in strong schools, engaged families, and thoughtful leadership.

Voices from Our Community

I have had the privilege of knowing Kris Spowart and working alongside her for more than 10 years. We have volunteered together in many capacities through PTA, advocated together for students and families, and served side by side with a shared commitment to making our schools better. She is a passionate advocate for special education, a dedicated voice for students and parents, and someone with a genuine heart for service. I am proud to support her for the Saddleback Valley Unified School Board and know she will bring that same experience, passion, compassion, and commitment to this role.

Cindy StrangeSVUSD Parent and MVHS PTSO President

It is my pleasure to offer this recommendation on behalf of Kris Spowart, whom I had the pleasure to work with during my nine years as Principal of Melinda Heights Elementary School in the Saddleback Valley Unified School District.

As a parent of a student receiving Special Education services, Kris was consistently one of the most involved and constructive partners in our school community. She volunteered frequently and approached every interaction with professionalism, respect, and a genuine commitment to learning. She asked thoughtful, often challenging questions; questions that reflected careful preparation and a deep desire to understand both her child’s needs and the broader educational system. She did so with an attitude of partnership rather than confrontation, remaining open to suggestions, willing to do her own research, and always focused on constructive solutions.

Kris consistently communicated with clarity and professionalism and showed a natural ability to collaborate effectively with her child’s teachers and support staff. She took time to express genuine appreciation for the work educators were doing, which strengthened those relationships and fostered a true team approach. Her advocacy extended beyond her own child; she consistently showed concern for the success of all students; those in Special Education as well as those in general education programs.

Her active involvement at Melinda Heights Elementary marked the beginning of Kris’ broader engagement at the district level. The same qualities I observed in her as a parent; thoughtfulness, preparation, respect, and a commitment to continuous learning; position her well to contribute meaningfully as a member of the SVUSD Board of Education.

I am confident that Kris Spowart will bring the same collaborative spirit, student-centered focus, and professional integrity to the school board that she demonstrated throughout her time at Melinda Heights Elementary. I recommend her without reservation.

Kathy MartinRetired Principal, Melinda Heights Elementary SchoolSaddleback Valley Unified School District

We need leaders who support both teachers and parents. Kris Spowart builds bridges and brings our community together. Her active involvement & leadership in the SVPTA & the CAC speaks volumes to her tireless dedication to advocacy. She cares deeply about inclusive practices that encourage student success and brings a calm, steady voice to challenging situations. Kris Spowart would be an incredible addition to the Saddleback Valley Unified School District Board of Education trustees.

Suzan Koo-MahathirathSVPTA Special Education Liaison, Esperanza Education CenterSCDD Regional Advisory Committee (RAC) member

In a world that feels more and more divided, Kris has a remarkable ability to work with families, teachers, and district leaders whose priorities don’t always align. Through it all, she never loses sight of what matters most: students always come first.

Kris wants to serve on the school board because she cares deeply about our students and our community. She has spent years advocating for children and working to make this district better for every family. She isn’t seeking a title or a political stepping stone – she wants to make a meaningful difference and help every student succeed.

I have worked side by side with Kris for years, advocating locally and at the state level to make our schools better for every student. I have seen the sleepless nights, the sacrifices, and the heart she brings to this work. She doesn’t do this for recognition – she does it because she actually cares.

April KimSVPTA Special Education LiaisonCommunity College Instructor

One of the most meaningful experiences in my teaching career was working with Mrs. Spowart. She consistently partnered with me to support her child’s educational growth. We maintained open communication, shared observations, and worked together to problem-solve. Our trust, communication, and shared commitment to her child’s success created meaningful opportunities for growth and progress and helped make it a positive year for her child.

Rachel WalkerTeacher, Melinda Heights Elementary

I have known Kris since 1977, when she was a third grade student in my first year of teaching. I have watched her perseverance and commitment to education carry through her life, from her years as a student to her work as a parent volunteer, advocate, and community leader. Kris is tireless in her devotion to students and has a remarkable ability to collaborate with others for their benefit. She is student-focused, transparent, willing to listen to diverse viewpoints, and approaches her work with integrity. I wholeheartedly support Kris Spowart for Saddleback Valley Unified School District School Board.

Strong Schools. Engaged Families. Bright Futures.