Jackson Highs winning robotics team has adults who bully, say parents who now want to influence school board race

An independently funded mailer has emerged in the Everett School Board race, accusing candidate Anna Marie Jackson Laurence of failing to protect student safety in a local robotics team. The mailer, created by James and Shelly Lee, alleges that adult mentors dominate the team, compromising the educational experience for students. Laurence vehemently denies the claims, labeling the mailer as "deplorable" and lacking in truth. Her opponent, Tom Clarke, condemned the mailer, distancing himself from its content and intent. The Lee family has previously criticized the robotics team's management, alleging retaliation against their child, who was removed from the team for voicing concerns.

They have sought multiple investigations into the team's operations, but have declined to cooperate with district-led inquiries, demanding an independent probe instead. Their discontent has led them to fund campaigns against Laurence and other board members up for election. This conflict highlights broader issues of student safety and governance within the school district.