Let’s Clear the Air 10/07/25

Throughout the campaign, I have remained focused on the real issues facing our students, families, and staff in our district. Unfortunately, my opponent has chosen to misrepresent my views, so I feel compelled to set the record straight. As I always say, it’s best to get information directly from the source.

Many people have reached out to me with questions about my positions, and I truly value those conversations. Below, I share my actual views on the topics my opponent tried to speak for me. As most of you know, I am a vocal advocate for open dialogue on matters that affect our district and community.

This situation highlights why it is so important to have a board that welcomes and encourages diverse perspectives. When we bring together different viewpoints, we make better decisions that reflect the needs and values of our entire community. A well-balanced board ensures that every voice is heard, and that our schools serve all students and families.

I invite you to join me in fostering honest conversations and advocating for thoughtful, inclusive leadership. Let’s work together to build a school district where diversity of thought is not only respected, but celebrated—because that’s how we create the strongest foundation for our students’ success.

South Whidbey School Bond

On her website, my opponent says: Gwendy opposed the bond, while offering no other solution to the pressing need for capital funding for repairs and upgrades.

I firmly believe our community deserves better than simply accepting costly solutions without exploring alternatives. While the school bond eventually passed, it’s crucial to remember it failed multiple times—largely because the district neglected regular maintenance and failed to provide adequate oversight. Years of understaffed maintenance led to the deterioration of our school buildings, and this avoidable neglect forced taxpayers to shoulder an unnecessarily high financial burden.

I voted against the bond not because I oppose improvements, but because the amount was excessive and there was a clear lack of accountability in how maintenance was managed. We must demand transparency and fiscal responsibility from our district leaders. The improvements funded by this bond are unlikely to last as long as the payments, which is simply not a sustainable or responsible approach.

There are better ways forward. For example, Oak Harbor School District secured financial support through collaboration with State Senator Ron Muzzall in 2023. Our district could have pursued similar partnerships with local and state representatives, seeking creative funding solutions rather than relying solely on taxpayers. By working together, we can ensure our schools are safe and well-maintained—without sacrificing fiscal responsibility or transparency.

Let’s insist on smarter solutions and real accountability, so our investments truly benefit students and our community for years to come.

Federal censorship of our curriculum

On her website, my opponent says: Gwendy has spoken at school board meetings urging compliance with the Administration’s overreach and rollbacks of multicultural education.  

I am genuinely perplexed by these statements, as they do not reflect my actions or beliefs. I have never spoken at board meetings about multicultural education, nor do I support book bans in our schools. My perspective is shaped by my upbringing—my mother was a librarian, and she instilled in me a deep appreciation for the freedom to explore diverse ideas through books.

Restricting reading materials in school libraries through federal mandates is not only unnecessary, but it undermines the very foundation of education and intellectual growth. Decisions about curriculum and library selections should be made locally, by those who understand our community’s needs—not dictated by distant federal authorities.

At the same time, I strongly believe parents should have a voice in what literature is available to students. By fostering open dialogue and collaboration between families and educators, we can ensure our libraries and curriculum reflect our shared values while protecting the freedom to learn.

Let’s stand together for transparency, local control, and the right of every student to access a rich and diverse education—free from unnecessary restrictions and overreach.

South Whidbey Superintendent Search

On her website, my opponent says: Gwendy criticized it in school board meetings and did not collaborate in any meaningful way. 

The SWSD superintendent search was deeply disappointing in its lack of true inclusivity. While my opponent is correct that parents, community leaders, students, and staff were invited to participate, the process ultimately failed to honor their voices. Despite the majority of feedback favoring one candidate, the board chose another, leaving those who invested their time and energy feeling unheard and dismissed.

Community members even filed public records requests, which revealed a troubling absence of collaboration in the final decision. The situation became so concerning that the district union had to intervene just to obtain answers from the board about their choice.

This experience underscores a critical need for transparency, open communication, and genuine trust in our leadership. Our community deserves a process where every voice is valued and decisions are made with integrity. It is time for the board to be held accountable for their actions and decisions. We must demand that our leaders listen to the community, act transparently, and earn our trust through responsible and inclusive governance.

We owe it to our students, families, and staff to insist on better—so that every decision truly reflects the will and best interests of our community.

Student Privacy and WA HB 1296

On her website, my opponent says: Gwendy has publicly opposed HB 1296. 

There are aspects of HB 1296 that I both support and question. To be clear, I do not recall the board or myself ever discussing this bill in a board meeting or workshop, so I am genuinely perplexed by my opponent’s accusation.

Importantly, HB 1296 does not explicitly mention “pronouns” or “nicknames.” Instead, the bill expands protections for students, including the right to express their gender identity and gender expression—provisions I fully support. The legislation is designed to promote a safe and supportive public education system, free from discrimination, and specifically includes gender identity and gender expression among protected characteristics.

I believe it is essential to protect all students’ rights and ensure our schools remain welcoming and inclusive environments. At the same time, transparency and open communication with families must remain a priority. My position is rooted in supporting student protections while also respecting the role of parents and the local community in shaping our schools.

High School Pride and BLM Banners

On her website, my opponent says: Gwendy urged the new Superintendent, Dr. Becky Clifford, not to replace the stolen banners, calling them “divisive.” 

Let’s seize this opportunity to build true unity and inclusiveness in our schools. When the banners were stolen, I urged the new superintendent not to simply replace them, because they were divisive and didn’t represent our entire student body. My goal has always been to ensure that every student feels seen, valued, and supported—not just a select group.

Instead, I proposed more inclusive alternatives, inspired by successful approaches in other districts. When we choose unity, we send a powerful message: every student matters, and every voice counts. Supporting all populations fosters a sense of belonging, encourages mutual respect, and strengthens our school community as a whole.

I believe that raising concerns should always come with offering solutions. That’s why I encouraged open conversations with our community, students, and staff. Now, I invite everyone—families, educators, and leaders—to join in these discussions. Together, we can create an environment where differences are respected, and every student feels they belong.

Unity isn’t just an ideal—it’s the foundation for a thriving, supportive, and successful school. Let’s work together to make sure every student benefits from a culture of inclusion and respect.

Comprehensive Sexual Health Education (CSHE)

On her website, my opponent says: Gwendy has spoken up against comprehensive health education at board meetings and in community forums.

This accusation actually made me laugh, given my background in community health. I regularly discuss STD prevention with clients of all ages, so I understand firsthand the importance of accurate, age-appropriate health education. When the district began discussing comprehensive sexual health education, they invited parents and caregivers to be part of the conversation. I attended the meeting, asked questions about the curriculum and its delivery, and was pleased to see the district actively seeking family input. Interestingly, I did not see my opponent at this meeting.

As both a parent and a professional, I was thrilled that our district was valuing the voices of families in shaping our children’s education. But this process only works if we all show up and participate. I urge every parent and caregiver to get involved in these conversations. When we engage, we help ensure our children’s education is age-appropriate and reflects the values of our community.

Let’s continue to show up, ask questions, and work together. Our involvement is essential to building a school environment that supports every child’s growth and well-being. Join me in making sure our voices are heard and our children’s needs are met—your participation truly makes a difference.

Thank you for your continued support! Your voice, your support, and your vote matter!

Why I’m Running for School Board: A Message to Our Community

Hello Neighbors,

My name is Gwendy Gabelein and I’m excited to be running for the South Whidbey School Board. I care deeply about the future of our schools—and I believe it’s time for fresh leadership that listens, collaborates, and focuses on what truly matters: our kids.

I’ve always been proud to call this community home. I’ve seen firsthand the passion of our teachers, the potential in our students, and the dedication of families who support them. But I’ve also seen areas where we can—and must—do better. Whether it’s ensuring every student has access to quality instruction, supporting our educators, or creating a culture of transparency and accountability, I believe our schools can rise to meet the challenges ahead.

I’m running because I want to

• Strengthen academic excellence across all schools.
• Make certain all parents and teachers are heard.
• Ensure fiscal responsibility and transparency in district decisions.

As a candidate, I’m here to keep the focus where it belongs: on students, learning, and building a public education system that prepares every child for success.

Over the next few months, I look forward to meeting with as many of you as possible—listening to your concerns, sharing ideas, and working together for a stronger future.

Thank you for your support, and stay tuned for more updates, events, and opportunities to get involved.

Gwendy Gabelein

Paid For by The Committee to Elect Gwendy for School Board Mail: P.O. Box 241 Freeland, WA 98249