Where I Stand: Fairness, Dignity, and Common Sense
Statement from Kassidi Gilgenast, candidate for Woodland Park School District RE-2 Board of Education
I believe every person deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. Years ago, while I was serving in the role of Chief Marketing Officer at USA Volleyball, our staff was asked to sign a pledge with a simple statement from the volleyball community rejecting hate and all forms of discrimination. I'm proud of that pledge because treating all people with decency, dignity and respect is common sense, and it's one of my core values.
I also believe in fair competition, and that has become a complex issue in the world of sport in recent years. Through my 10-year career in the sports industry, I’ve seen it debated at all levels - from grassroots to the Olympic & Paralympic Games.
Right now, this is not a pressing issue in our school district. That being said, I know that policies around participation and competition in sports are an important issue for many families. Recently I have seen some questions arise about my stance on this issue in our community, and I want everyone to know where I stand.
Here’s what I believe
As a mom of two girls, a longtime coach and a former NCAA Division I female athlete, I believe that it is important to preserve the integrity of girls' competition in sports and that boys/biological males should not compete with or against girls beyond elementary age, past puberty. I believe that district policies should ensure opportunities for female athletes to compete, win, and earn scholarships. We can honor fair play and competition while also respecting the dignity of all of our students and offering meaningful ways for all kids to stay involved in athletics and activities.
I am committed to supporting fair competition in sports and upholding my pledge to treat everyone with respect. Both are essential to building strong, healthy communities and schools where everyone can thrive.
If you want to learn more about my stance on this issue or other challenges that Woodland Park School District faces, I’d love to have a conversation with you. You can contact me or find my availability to schedule a meeting here: bit.ly/meetkassidi
Kassidi Gilgenast is a candidate for the Woodland Park School District RE-2 Board of Education. She is a mom of two girls, a coach, military wife, community leader and business executive focused on strategic vision, fiscal responsibility, transparent governance and collaborative leadership.
Learn more about Kassidi Gilgenast
Learn more about Kassidi’s vision for Woodland Park School District