SVVSD candidate profile: Natalie Abshier

What do the technology industry and education field have in common? According to Natalie Abshier, both require active listening and negotiation. She believes that her experience as both a business owner and manager will make her a unique candidate for the SVVSD Board of Education. She is currently running for the District F area, which includes Mead and much of Longmont.

"I'm a long-time resident in the SVVSD community, and have seen this area grow," said Abshier. "I understand the importance of building and maintaining school and facilities that meet the needs of the students and staff."

Abshier has had both her children and grandchildren go through the SVVSD system, which has become the source of her belief that parents should be involved in their children's education. Especially in the time of COVID, and as the community comes out of it, she believes that now, more than ever, is the time for parents to become more involved.

Her main motivation for running for the board is to give back to her community. For Abshier, quality education is central to a strong community.

"I'm excited to visit with the students, teachers, staff and parents and bring to fruition their vision for the future of SVVSD."

Along with developing the future of SVVSD, Abshier believes in preparing students for life after graduation. Whether that's college, or not, the district should be hands-on with ensuring that students have the necessary skills. This notion is embodied in her slogan, "Education First." She believes that academics should be the focus in a student's life, "so they can continue after graduation to build success in their own lives."

If elected, Abshier also hopes to use COVID funds to be applied more directly to students and teachers. Whether this is through a decrease in student fees or more classroom funding, she believes that any surplus in these funds should go directly to student learning. Additionally, she hopes that SVVSD becomes more inclusive in terms of community representation.

"SVVSD is a large school district that spans parts of Weld, Broomfield and Larimer counties," she said. "I hear from families outside of Boulder County that they feel overlooked by some decisions made that impact Boulder County but don't apply to their own counties."

So far on the campaign trail, she has made an effort to talk with various families throughout Erie, Frederick, Longmont and Mead. While she admitted that it was nerve wracking to initially speak in front of people, she's getting used to it. Now, she says that it's fun and exciting to meet community members.

"There's always someone to meet and let them know how important it is to vote in our local elections," Abshier said. "I'm so grateful that my friends and family are supportive of me and help me out whenever I need them."