As a student representative on the Riverview ​School District Board of Directors from 2005-2007, I had the privilege of serving with and learning from a phenomenal group of education advocates, including Lori Oviatt. Riverview being the small community district it is, I knew Lori as a board member, my neighbor, and mother to a few students I knew well.  It was, and still is, so clear to me that Lori spreads her passion for education and uplifting the voice of young people in everything she does. During my time on the Board, Lori immediately made both the other rep and me feel like welcome and valued members of the team. She joined in with the other directors in asking our opinions, introducing us to legislators on trips, and explaining more complex issues in clear, student-friendly terms. Lori always greeted me with a smile and continues to give me those home town good-feels when I run into her on Lake Joy or at the annual Cedarcrest High School Reunion (Carnation 4th of July parade). I feel so grateful for the experience I had as a student rep, and Lori’s mentorship is one reason I value that time so much. With a different perspective now, as a school counselor at a middle school, I would love to see Lori Oviatt on the board in my own district. Alas, I doubt she’ll move away, so I’m left full heatedly endorsing her to keep doing great work for my fellow kids from the Valley.

Morgan Collins
Middle School Counselor
Former RSD Student Representative