For more than a year, I have spoken at Battle Ground school board meetings about disrespectful behavior by Board President Terry Tate toward community members, staff, and fellow board members. My concerns began before he became Board President and have continued since he assumed that leadership role.
On June 17, I attended the district’s levy listening session and witnessed another concerning interaction. During a small-group discussion, a community member raised concerns about President Tate’s ongoing conduct. Rather than listening to those concerns or helping facilitate a productive conversation, President Tate became defensive and repeatedly attempted to draw Superintendent Shelly Whitten into the discussion in support of his position. When she did not do so, President Tate continued pressing the issue, and the discussion became increasingly uncomfortable and shifted away from the community’s concerns.
As he left the discussion, President Tate stopped beside Superintendent Whitten and said in an angry and intimidating tone, “I don’t appreciate that you didn’t have my back.” To me, it reinforced the impression that he expected the Superintendent to publicly defend him during a conversation about his own conduct. I immediately spoke up because I believed it was inappropriate for a Board President to speak to anyone in that manner, especially in a public setting, and particularly toward the Superintendent, who is supervised and evaluated by the Board.
What concerns me most is not this single incident, but the pattern. Over the past several years, I have repeatedly observed President Tate respond poorly to criticism and interact with others in ways that are dismissive, defensive, and disrespectful. Community members should not have to endure hostile interactions simply to participate in public meetings or district events.
Several times last year, I asked the Board to adopt a code of ethics. The Board chose not to do so. As concerns about professionalism and conduct continue to arise, that decision appears increasingly shortsighted. Clear standards of accountability are especially important when questions involve the Board’s own leadership.
The role of Board President is different from that of an individual board member. The President sets the tone for board meetings, public engagement, and the Board’s relationship with district staff. Effective leadership requires professionalism, emotional self-control, and the ability to accept criticism respectfully, particularly in public settings.
I also want to recognize district staff, who consistently handle difficult situations with professionalism and grace. Staff should not be placed in situations where they are expected to absorb, excuse, or manage inappropriate conduct from board leadership.
Battle Ground School District faces significant challenges, including rebuilding community trust and securing support for future levies. Meeting those challenges requires leadership that brings people together, encourages participation, and models the respect the community expects from its elected officials.
Based on the conduct I have observed over the past several years, I do not have confidence in Terry Tate’s ability to effectively serve as Board President. For the good of the district, I believe he should step down from the position of Board President immediately.
Jessica Cole
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