Thursday, October 1, 2026
Parent-run nonprofit organization OSD4All hosted a candidates forum to introduce the people vying for two seats on the Olympia School District Board of Directors in the August primary election.
The forum took place at the Capitol Theater in downtown Olympia on Saturday, July 12.
There are three candidates running for District 3 and three candidates vying for District 5 seats, which are currently held by directors Scott Clifthorne and Darcy Huffman, respectively.
The top two candidates in each Aug. 5 primary election race will move on to the Nov. 4 general election.
The candidates for District 3 are Renee Fullerton, Britney Johnson and Rhyan Smith.
Fullerton is a workforce development specialist with the Washington Workforce Training and Education Coordinating Board. Her background is listed in the county’s voter pamphlet.
“I am a huge believer in education that connects to careers so that our kids have a chance for a future, and they see good living wage jobs ahead of them here in Thurston County. I think we have some really strong programs that we can build on,” said Fullerton during the forum.
Fullerton holds a master's degree in public health from the University of Arizona and a bachelor's degree in journalism and biology from the University of Missouri.
Britney Johnson is an interior designer with 17 years of experience, and has been running her own business for 10 years. She holds a bachelor's degree in interior design from Iowa State University.
“We love the schools, we love community. This is where we want to be, and so we just think that is missing on the board, and I'm here to represent the community and our kids throughout this whole space," Jonhson said.
Rhyan Smith is a former teacher with the Olympia School District with experience in vocational ministry, while also owning a coffee shop and home care agency. Smith is also a real estate broker.
Smith earned a bachelor's degree in elementary education from Washington State University and a master's degree from Princeton Seminary.
“As we have all kind of navigated these last few years post-COVID, and then into the last few years of budget issues and possible school closures, and some performative appointments on the board, I think you've also said ‘What's going on with our district?’ and ‘Wow can we get involved?’ And I just feel like it's time to step in,” Smith said.
There are three candidates running for District 5 are Gil Lamont, Emily Leddige and Jeremy Ruse.
Gilbert Lamont is a data analyst and a military veteran with more than a decade of leadership experience. He holds a bachelor of science degree and a master's degree in economics.
“I'm running for the school board because I want my children to be part of a school community that is inclusive — where my children know they belong, feel safe, and are given opportunities to grow and become their best selves. … For me, inclusion is not just an educational approach, it is a moral commitment,” said Lamont through a recording played during the forum.
Lamont was not able to attend the forum.
Emily Leddige has approximately seven and one-half years experience as a deputy prosecuting attorney for Spokane, Grays Harbor and Thurston counties.
Leddige holds a bachelor's degree in political science with a minor in businss and philosophy from Whitworth University. She earned her law degree from the University of Idaho College of Law.
“I want every student to have the tools and those resources that they truly need to thrive not only in the classroom, but also outside of the classroom. … I also would like to have a little more transparency in the board," Leddige said.
"I would like to continue to have those tough conversations to really listen to understand rather than listen to react, and I think that's what a lot of people in the community are feeling right now."
Jeremy Ruse is a business owner in upper management, and a master technician (automotive and motorcycle).
Ruse studied automotive technology at South Puget Sound Community College and has undergone both technical and management training.
“I believe one of the greatest opportunities we have as a community is the education of our youth. It's our responsibility to provide the structure mentorship and guidance necessary for them to build the skills needed for adulthood. … I think that we as a community are responsible for making sure that we build future citizens and give them the best opportunities that we can,” Ruse said.
A recording of the forum is available on OSD4All’s channel.
Editor's note: This story has been updated to reflect Rhyan Smith is a former teacher with the Olympia School District.
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