Parents 4 MI - Board of Directors

Here’s a professional press release announcing the four-member board of directors for Parents for Mercer Island:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 4, 2025

Parents for Mercer Island Announces Board of Directors to Drive Community-Focused Educational Advocacy

Mercer Island, WA — Parents for Mercer Island, a nonpartisan nonprofit dedicated to strengthening public education and restoring trust in Mercer Island schools, is proud to announce the formation of its inaugural Board of Directors. The four-person board, with advisors to be announced later in August 2025, brings together a diverse group of experienced parents, educators, and advocates, each united by a deep commitment to academic excellence, fiscal responsibility, and community involvement.

We’re thrilled to bring together leaders who not only care deeply about their own children’s education, but also about improving the broader educational system on Mercer Island,” said a spokesperson for the organization. “Each board member brings a unique perspective that includes legal, journalistic, academic, and technical expertise. This diversity reflects the complexity of the challenges facing our schools today.

Board of Directors:

Isabell Freitas Peres
An educator and mother of three young children soon entering the district, Isabell brings global legal expertise and a passion for early engagement in public education. She currently serves as Director of Bar Success at Seattle University School of Law and holds advanced degrees from Brazil, Italy, Germany, and the United States. “We moved to the Island for its schools,” she says, “and it’s never too early to get involved in our children’s education.”

Brian Gaspar
A seasoned education and finance leader, Brian is a former Associate Professor and AI learning tool developer with more than two decades of experience in data-driven public education reform. A Trustee of the Mercer Island Open Space Conservancy Trust, he is focused on reversing the district’s enrollment decline, restoring budget reserves, and holding leadership accountable for educational outcomes.

Meghan Hamill
A longtime Mercer Island resident, Meghan is a journalist and active PTA member advocating for gifted and twice-exceptional learners. As a mother of two and contributor to local publications like the Mercer Island Reporter, she is a strong proponent of transparency, inclusion, and maintaining high academic standards for all students.

Rob O’Callahan
An AI engineer, science educator, and father of two Island Park students, Rob blends technical insight with hands-on teaching. He champions academically rigorous, content-rich curricula and thoughtful technology integration in schools. Rob also serves the community through volunteer efforts with Mercer Island Parks and Recreation.

Parents for Mercer Island was founded to serve as a voice for families across the district—amplifying parent concerns, advocating for responsible governance, and promoting high-quality, equitable education for every student. With its newly appointed board, the organization is well-positioned to drive forward a renewed vision of excellence and accountability in Mercer Island schools.

For more information, visit www.parents4mi.org.