Vivian

van

Gelder

for Seattle
School Board
Position 5

Primary: Aug. 5, 2025

Rooted in Experience. Focused on Solutions.

Our kids deserve a public education system that truly works for everyone. Our families deserve a school system that is functional and focused on making sure every student has access to a high-quality school.

Vivian van Gelder is a pragmatic, curious leader who is ready to bring change to our school system. Join us to build a school district that puts students first and vote for Vivian van Gelder for Seattle School Board.

Vote for Vivian van Gelder in the August 5 primary!

About Vivian

Vivian van Gelder is a parent, advocate, and education leader with deep roots in Seattle’s public schools. As Director of Policy and Research for the Southeast Seattle Education Coalition (SESEC), Vivian works to ensure that communities—especially those historically underserved—have a meaningful voice in shaping education policy.

Vivian’s commitment to public education is both personal and professional. She has served in multiple leadership roles on school PTAs across Seattle and on the Seattle Council PTSA, bringing parents together to advocate for stronger, more equitable schools. She also founded an advocacy initiative focused on addressing inequities in PTA fundraising, ensuring that every school community can thrive regardless of its zip code.

With a background in both education and the legal field, Vivian understands how policy, budgeting, and governance shape student experiences in the classroom. She has seen firsthand the challenges facing Seattle Public Schools—from budget deficits to a system that often centers adults rather than students—and believes deeply in the need for structural change. Her focus is on healing and reintegration for students, families and educators, ensuring that schools are welcoming, safe, and equipped to meet the needs of every child.

Originally from Australia, Vivian moved to Seattle in 2009 and quickly became active in the local education community. When she’s not working or thinking about school funding, you can find her cycling, cooking, reading, or traveling with her family.

Vision and Priorities

Vivian van Gelder believes public education is a promise to every child, and it’s time to make that promise real. Her vision focuses on:

Equity & Systemic Reform

Transforming structures to prioritize the needs of children to ensure every student has the tools and opportunities to thrive.

Strong Governance

Prioritizing the board’s role as a governance body—setting clear goals, monitoring progress, and ensuring transparency and accountability.

Student Safety &
Well Being

Advocating for safe, welcoming schools that address mental health and wellness needs.

Community Investment

Ensuring that resources are deployed equitably and effectively, and that all families are meaningfully included in decision-making.

Publications

Vivian is committed to working across divides to make our public education system effective and equitable for all students.

Here’s how you know.

16:1 Podcast episode
(April 2025)

Your contribution helps fuel a campaign dedicated to putting kids first.

Thank you for investing in a better future for Seattle’s students.

Get involved!

Ready to help create change?

We’d love to have you on the team. Whether it’s doorbelling, making phone calls, hosting a house party, or sharing your skills, every bit makes a difference.

Contact Vivian

Have questions or ideas? Get in touch!

vivforfive@icloud.com
Phone: (360) 386-2124