Veteran educator Lorri Sibley announces campaign for Battle Ground School Board

A resident of the Yacolt area for 36 years, Sibley recently retired from her 32-year teaching career in the Battle Ground School District

BATTLE GROUND, WA – After more than three decades of serving Battle Ground students as an educator, Lorri Sibley is stepping forward to continue that service in a new way: as a candidate for District 1 Director on the Battle Ground School Board. A resident of the Yacolt area for 36 years, Sibley recently retired from her 32-year teaching career in the Battle Ground School District, but insists that her dedication to local students, teachers, and families is far from over.

“Our community wants a stronger school district, and so do I,” said Sibley. “We are currently facing uncertain times. Having served in this district for as long as I have, I have seen firsthand what works and what doesn’t. I want to be a voice that listens, challenges, and helps guide this district through our current challenges and into a better future.” 

Sibley is a National Board Certified Teacher, a distinction held by only 4% of teachers across the U.S. Throughout her career, she has served in numerous leadership capacities within the Battle Ground Education Association, including several terms on the district and union contract negotiation teams. These experiences have given Sibley an in-depth understanding of the district’s operations, its budget, and its limitations. 

“My experience in the classroom and behind the scenes has given me a unique perspective on what our students and staff truly need to be successful,” she said. “That includes prioritizing safety, providing students with a variety of academic pathways, and making sure that the district operates with transparency and accountability.” Sibley’s platform focuses on five key areas: 

● Community Trust: Rebuilding public trust by operating with full transparency, engaging the community, and ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent wisely. 

● Academic Success: Supporting a variety of academic paths including Career and Technical Education, AP courses, Special Education, and Alternative Learning Environments to meet students where they are. 

● School Safety: Prioritizing safe, supportive learning environments with adequate security, counselors, nurses, and firm policies to address bullying and classroom disruption. 

● A Healthy and Prosperous Battle Ground: Recognizing that thriving schools are key to a prosperous community and that investing in facilities, staff, and curriculum is a direct investment in the future. 

● Asking the Hard Questions: Refusing to rubber stamp decisions and instead advocating for what is best for students, staff, and the district as a whole. 

Sibley, who attends New Heights Church with her husband of 39 years and her son, who recently graduated from seminary school, says her Christian faith continues to guide her leadership and service. 

“I’m not running for this position for a title. I am running because I love this district, this community, and the people who make it great,” said Sibley. “I promise to be a tireless advocate for our schools and for Battle Ground’s future. I will listen, speak up, and will work every day to ensure our district reflects the values of the students and families it serves.” 

With decades of firsthand experience and a deep commitment to Battle Ground’s future, Sibley is ready to serve on day one. Whether or not she is elected to the School Board, she looks forward to using her retirement to continue serving the community that has meant so much to her family by volunteering in classrooms, supporting students and staff, working at a local cat rescue, and staying involved with her church.