School Board Race: Seat D
Allison Sayer
There are two races for Copper River School District board seats October 7. Incumbent Mark Somerville is being challenged for Seat G by Carl Griffin II. Current president Joshua Scott is not seeking re-election to seat D. Two candidates: Tisha Griffin and Preston Callison are running for this seat.
Both candidates for Seat D were emailed the same questions by CRR along with a request for a short bio.
Preston Callison
My name is Preston Callison, and I am honored to be running for a seat on the Copper River School District Board. Since March 2025, I have served as Chief Operating Officer at Copper River Native Association, where I’ve had the privilege of working closely with community programs that support families and youth. My family and I relocated to Copper Valley from Portland, Oregon, and we are grateful to now call this incredible community home.
As a parent of two children and the spouse of an educator, I am deeply invested in the success of our schools. I believe in the power of public education to shape futures, strengthen communities, and create opportunities for all students. I am committed to supporting our educators, advocating for student needs, and helping guide the district with transparency, collaboration, and care.
I look forward to the opportunity to serve and contribute to the continued growth and excellence of CRSD.
Tisha Griffin
My name is Tisha Griffin. I’m a Kluuti Kaah tribal member. I’ve been at CRNA for over four years now and will receive my associate degree in January 2026. I grew up in the community and graduated from Glennallen High School in 2007. I lived in Illinois from 2012 to 2021 with my husband, Carl Griffin.
Why are you running for school board?
Tisha Griffin: As a parent of a student who attends CRSD, being involved in their education has always been important to me. Watching my son, Skyler Griffin (Class of 2025), actively participate in as many school activities as possible inspired me to get involved as well. His enthusiasm and commitment motivated me to support not only his journey but the broader school community too.
Preston Callison: Education is a big part of my family’s life. I believe in being involved and giving back, especially when it comes to something as important as our schools. Public education matters, and I’d love the opportunity to help support CRSD’s mission and make a positive impact for students, families, and staff.
What do you see as the role of a school board member?
Preston Callison: To me, a school board member is someone who listens, learns, and helps guide the district in a way that reflects the needs of the community. It’s about working together with educators, parents, and students to make sure our schools are safe, supportive, and focused on helping every child succeed. It’s not just about policies—it’s about people.
Tisha Griffin declined this question.
What are some good trends in CRSD you would like to see continue?
Tisha Griffin: Migrant Education. It’s a great program for the community. It has so many benefits to our students and their futures.
Preston Callison: I really appreciate how CRSD puts students first—not just in academics, but in values too. The focus on being kind, respectful, responsible, and safe creates a great foundation for learning and growing. I also love seeing the district’s efforts to improve student achievement through teamwork and innovative teaching. These are the kinds of things that make a real difference, and I’d love to help keep that momentum going.
What about CRSD do you feel needs improvement and how?
Preston Callison: One area I think we can strengthen is how we support and retain our staff. Teachers and support staff are the heart of our schools, and investing in their growth and well-being helps everyone.
Another challenge is student attrition. I think we can help students feel more connected and prepared for life after school by offering more hands-on learning—like apprenticeships, job shadowing, and life skills classes. Things like budgeting, cooking, and basic home maintenance can go a long way in helping students feel confident and capable as they step into adulthood. Also, I would like to see professionals from all disciplines in the region contribute time in the classroom by sharing learnings from their own paths that may inspire students to explore a variety of career disciplines.
Tisha Griffin: I strongly believe that anyone serving on the board should have children or grandchildren currently enrolled in the school. This is a change I’d like to see implemented sooner rather than later. Board members making decisions for students without having any personal connection to the school community is, in my view, a disconnect that undermines effective and empathetic leadership.
What do you think are the top needs in our district?
Tisha Griffin declined this question.
Preston Callison: There are some important gaps in services that I think we need to address relating to additional school services such as additional paraeducators, occupational and speech therapies, and site-based nursing care. These roles are essential for supporting students’ health, learning, and overall well-being. Making sure we have the right resources in place helps create a more inclusive and effective learning environment for everyone.
Ballots were mailed to residents this week. Absentee in person voting is also available at Old Paths Baptist Church in Glennallen Monday, Wednesday & Friday; September 22- October 6; 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Mail in ballots must be postmarked by October 7.
The Copper River Record does not endorse either candidate in this race. A coin toss decided which candidate bio would appear first, and candidate statements were alternated afterwards.
Look for more information about the race for Seat G in next week’s paper.