Betty Patu, B.A. 2007, M.A. Education 2009

Betty Patu, B.A. ’07, M.A. Education ’09, a retired Rainier Beach High School teacher who has toiled for more than 30 years in the Seattle Public Schools trenches, is one of several new faces on the Seattle School Board representing District 7. She is eager to improve the school district, saying she wants to unite the board in an effort to ensure a quality education for all students.

Betty, who was outspent by almost five to one and was managed by her daughter, won her race by a huge 68% to 31% margin. She has been active in the Seattle community, serving on a number of boards including the Rainier Beach Community Empowerment Coalition, the Asian Counseling Referral Services and the Rainier Beach Foundation, and is the Founder/President of Islanders Children & Youth Services (ICYS).