Board Election Results
Four members of the Highline School Board reaffirmed their commitment to serve our students, staff, families and community after winning their November elections. Angelica Alvarez, Joe Van, Dr. Damarys Espinoza and Blaine Holien each took the oath of office during a brief ceremony this week.
Oath of Office
Family, friends and staff members attended the event as the directors renewed their pledge to uphold the duties of their roles and continue leading with the values outlined in the Highline Promise to know every student by name, strength and need.
“Our board’s leadership reflects the values of our community and the promise we hold for every student,” said Superintendent Dr. Ivan Duran. “I am thankful for their continued service and partnership, and for the vital role they play in guiding our work and keeping us focused on what matters most—our students."
The ceremony highlighted the board’s shared commitment to collaborative leadership and student-centered decision-making. We are grateful for the continued service of Directors Alvarez, Van, Espinoza, and Holien, along with Director Stephanie Tidholm, whose current term continues, as they carry forward the work of supporting our schools and every student we serve.
Angelica Alvarez (District 2)
Director Alvarez is a longtime community leader who works to center families in decision-making and expand opportunities for children. She brings deep experience from regional nonprofits and now leads improvement initiatives at the Puget Sound Educational Service District.
Joe Van (District 3)
Director Van is a Tyee High School graduate with a background in supply-chain and operations management, currently serving as a distribution center and project manager. He lives in SeaTac with his family and is active in civic and youth sports.
Dr. Damarys Espinoza (District 4)
Director Espinoza is an educator and organizational leader with more than 20 years of experience focused on public health, equity, and systems change. She serves as Chief Equity and Policy Officer at Mary’s Place and lives in Des Moines with her partner and three young children.
Blaine Holien (District 5)
Director Holien is a first-generation college graduate who studied political science and economics at the University of Washington and built a career in sales and management. He is married to a Highline educator and is a father of two. He enjoys skiing, swimming, and traveling with his family.
