Meet Calli Ross.

I am a mother of three, a Colorado native, an Idaho transplant, the wife of a chef, a history buff and a perpetual fan of fantasy fiction. As an alum of Boise State University with a background in science, my journey took an unexpected turn when my second son was born with special needs. Viewing the world through the lens of disability reshaped my perspective and led me to advocacy, first out of necessity, and then out of a deep desire to smooth the path for the next family.

For the past several years, I have worked closely with legislators, community leaders, organizations, and agencies to shape inclusive policies in public education and home- and community-based services. I have seen firsthand how strong, thoughtful policy can positively impact families and communities. I believe in the power of representation, the importance of inclusion, and the responsibility of schools to serve all students equitably.

I also believe in transparency, and our family’s lawsuit against the district is something I’m happy to discuss. Tens, for those that don’t know, is our middle child and has an IEP. Like all Oregon children, he has the right to a free and equitable education. However, for him, that meant an inexperienced instructional assistant visiting our home for an hour a day and holding up her phone so he could watch YouTube videos. Our lawsuit is not about financial compensation (we gain nothing except policy change) it’s about defining what is truly equitable so future students don’t fall through the cracks.

Sherwood has a history of costly lawsuits related to special education, and is known in the disability community as a difficult district for children that require supports. As a board member, I want to help change that by strengthening policies, increasing SPED funding, and ensuring all staff—especially special education teachers and instructional assistants—have the training and support they need. When we invest in better policies upfront, we create a more inclusive environment and reduce the need for legal battles down the road.

If elected, I will, of course, recuse myself from any conflicts of interest. However, I bring experience in policy, an understanding of Oregon’s education funding structure, and the perspective of a parent who has sat through an IEP meeting advocating with tears in my eyes and a rock in my stomach knowing that nothing will change unless someone puts in the effort. I am willing to be that someone.

I am running for the Sherwood School Board to bring my experience, passion, and dedication to our district. Together, we need to maintain our strong financial foundation, and build a school system that values every student and provides them with the opportunities they need to thrive.