Bernie Wang For Corvallis Schools

Bernie Wang – Corvallis 509J School Board Position #7

Position Paper & Key Talking Points

Introduction

As a current Corvallis School Board member, I am committed to ensuring that every student, educator, and staff member has the resources, support, and opportunities to thrive. Public education is the foundation of strong communities, and by working together, we can create schools that uplift all students, support educators, and build a brighter future for our district.

I was appointed to the board less than six months ago, and I am running to continue the work I’ve started—strengthening equity, improving student outcomes, and making responsible, student-focused financial decisions that keep our schools strong. With 33 years of leadership experience in the Navy and my current role at Oregon State University, I bring a deep understanding of policy development, strategic implementation, and managing large budgets—skills that are critical as our district faces complex challenges.

I approach leadership and governance through the concept of “shipbuilding”—Leadership, Relationships, and Stewardship. Leadership isn’t just about being in front; it’s about knowing when to guide from the middle or support from behind. Strong relationships, built on listening and understanding, create collaboration and progress. And stewardship means recognizing that public service is a privilege—decisions must be made with care, accountability, and a commitment to the future.

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Navigating Today’s Political & Fiscal Environment

We are in a time of political uncertainty and fiscal constraints, where public education faces increasing pressures from both funding challenges and shifting policy landscapes. In such an environment, we need leaders who can work through ambiguity, make tough decisions, and keep students at the center of every choice we make.

Throughout my career, I have operated in complex and high-stakes environments, whether navigating international challenges as a Navy Captain or managing strategic initiatives in higher education. I understand that successful leadership requires adaptability, clear communication, and the ability to bring people together toward a shared goal.

Now more than ever, we need leaders with experience in making sound, forward-thinking decisions even in uncertain times. I will use my experience to help the district:

• Plan for long-term financial stability despite funding challenges.
• Advocate for policies that protect and strengthen public education in the face of political shifts.
• Ensure that every decision is grounded in student success and educator support, even in times of uncertainty.

Our schools need steady, experienced leadership, and I am committed to ensuring that Corvallis remains a place where every student has access to a world-class education, no matter what challenges arise.

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Key Priorities

Equity & Student Success

• Every student—regardless of background, income, or ability—deserves access to a high-quality education that prepares them for success.
• I will continue supporting policies that expand multilingual education, enhance mental health resources, and promote inclusive learning environments.
• Our schools should inspire students and open doors to college, careers, and lifelong opportunities.

Supporting Educators & Classified Staff

• Educators and school staff are essential to student success, and I am committed to ensuring they have fair wages, strong benefits, and the job security they deserve.
• I fully support collective bargaining and the right to unionize, ensuring that all employees have a voice in shaping district policies.
• Corvallis is a wonderful place to live, but the high cost of living is a challenge for many working families. I will continue to advocate for competitive wages and collaborate with local leaders to explore housing solutions to help attract and retain talented educators and staff.
• Whenever possible, I will prioritize keeping jobs within the district rather than outsourcing, ensuring that public funds support stable, long-term employment.

Responsible, Student-Focused Fiscal Management

• As we navigate financial challenges, I will ensure that every budget decision is made carefully, with students, educators, and long-term district sustainability in mind.
• My experience in the Navy and at OSU has given me extensive expertise in managing large budgets, ensuring financial accountability, and making data-driven decisions.
• I will thoroughly analyze financial decisions to ensure that funding is used effectively and aligned with student needs and district priorities.
• I am committed to fairness in capital project funding and sourcing, ensuring that public funds support good jobs, fair wages, and responsible labor practices.
• I will oppose any attempts to weaken union protections, including efforts to pressure workers into opting out of their unions.

Safe & Supportive Schools

• Schools should be places where students feel inspired to learn, and educators feel supported to do their best work.
• I will advocate for more mental health professionals and resources to support students and staff.
• I support school-based health centers to ensure that students—especially those from working-class and immigrant families—have access to the care they need.

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Talking Points

Why I Am Running for School Board

• I was appointed to the board less than six months ago, and I want to continue the progress we’ve made on equity, student outcomes, and responsible financial decision-making.
• Public education is at a critical moment, and I bring leadership experience and a deep commitment to ensuring that students, educators, and working families have the support they need.
• With 33 years in the Navy and my current role at OSU, I have extensive experience formulating and implementing policies and managing large budgets, ensuring that district resources are used effectively and strategically.
• I have proven experience navigating complex and uncertain environments, and I will ensure that Corvallis schools are prepared for the challenges ahead.

Supporting Educators & Classified Staff

• I absolutely believe in the right to collective bargaining and will continue to advocate for fair wages, job security, and strong benefits.
• I will engage with classified employees and educators to better understand their needs and ensure their voices shape district decisions.
• Strong schools start with strong educators and staff, and I will fight against any cuts that negatively impact our workforce.

Ensuring Safe & Equitable Schools

• Every student deserves the same high-quality opportunities, and I support policies that promote equity in education.
• I will prioritize student and educator safety, advocating for mental health resources and policies that foster a positive learning environment.

Fiscal Responsibility & Protecting Public Resources

• I will ensure that budget decisions are made thoughtfully, balancing fiscal responsibility with the needs of students and staff.
• I am committed to fair and responsible capital project funding and sourcing that supports good jobs, fair wages, and ethical labor practices.
• I will oppose efforts to use public time and resources to weaken unions or pressure workers to opt out.
• Public funds should support stable, long-term employment within the district, and outsourcing should only be considered when absolutely necessary and in the best interest of the district.

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Closing Statement

Serving on the Corvallis School Board has been an honor, and I remain committed to ensuring our schools remain strong, our educators are supported, and every student has the opportunity to thrive.

With thoughtful leadership and a commitment to working together, we can make meaningful progress for students, families, and educators. My experience in policy development, implementation, and budget management will help guide the district through challenges while keeping students at the center of every decision.

I respectfully ask for your support as we move forward together.