Kat Richards - Board Member
I have been proud to call Sitka home since 2002. As a registered nurse with more than 30 years of experience and a parent of two SHS graduates, I understand how important strong schools are to the health and future of our community.
I believe every student deserves a safe, supportive school where they can learn, grow, and feel that they belong. My nursing career has taught me to listen, work respectfully with people who have different perspectives, solve problems, advocate for those who need a voice, and pay attention to the details. I have learned to look closely at policies, identify gaps, and ask whether they truly serve the people they are intended to support.
As a school board member, I will listen first, ask thoughtful and sometimes difficult questions, and make decisions based on what is best for students and those who support them. I will advocate for strong academic opportunities, a healthy school environment, responsible use of resources, meaningful support for educators and support staff, and open communication with families and our community.
My husband is a member of the district’s paraprofessional staff, giving our family an additional perspective on the people who help our schools succeed. Our two children are SHS graduates (2024/2026). We are animal lovers and have 2 dogs and 2 sweet cats.
I am serving because I care deeply about our students, our schools, and the future of Sitka.