Meet the Candidates Running for Issaquah School Board

Chimnay Nagarkar

As an immigrant, a Stanford Graduate, and an accomplished technologist, I know education opens doors. As a former STEM teacher, father to one child with special needs, and another with a gift in Mathematics, I understand diverse learning needs.

It’s time to listen to the community and take action. Our schools require space, safety, and fresh ideas to address financial challenges. I’ll raise academic standards through expert-guided goals, blameless accountability, enhanced teacher support, and tools to better prepare every student. I will amplify parent voices and enforce existing zero-tolerance policies against bullying and substance abuse. To rebuild trust, I will promote transparency—for example, with a “Promised vs. Delivered” dashboard for expensive projects. We’ll address overcrowding with smart solutions and align education with jobs in a fast-changing world.

Vote for me in the August primary and let us bring back excellence, kindness, and fiscal responsibility!

Natalie Anderson

As a life-long resident of Western Washington and a proud parent of two students at Maple Hills Elementary, I am committed to ensuring our schools remain safe and inclusive. With two decades of experience in Aerospace Leadership, my data-driven decision-making equips me with the skills to bring practical, result-oriented solutions to the School Board. My hands-on approach and expertise in quality management have taught me the importance of attention to detail and maintaining high standards.

I have been an active school volunteer for five years and have served several years on the Maple Hills PTA Board as Director of Ongoing Programs. From organizing events to fundraising for school programs, my experience on the PTA Board has also involved advocating for school safety, inclusivity, and academic excellence.

I have been endorsed by the Issaquah Education Association, 5th Legislative District Democrats and King County Democrats. Visit my website for more information: electnatalieanderson.com.

Lovenia Hardin

I was raised by a single mom in the hospitality industry, where I learned resilience, hard work, and the power of showing up for others. Told in 12th grade I wouldn’t graduate, I earned my GED, went back to school while raising a family, and completed my bachelor’s and master’s degrees. I’ve lived what many families live every day, juggling childcare, jobs, and advocacy while holding it all together with love and grit.

Motherhood gave me purpose and a deeper drive to build a better future, for my kids and yours. From Girl Scout leader to Service Unit Manager, school volunteer to PTSA DEI Council Rep, I’ve spent nearly two decades making sure every child feels seen, valued, and supported.

I’m not here to check a box. I’m here to lead with experience.

As your school board member, I’ll champion stronger communication, safer and more inclusive schools, student well-being, and real community engagement.

Darren Chueng

Hi! I’m Darren Cheung, and I am running for Issaquah School Board for Area 2. I grew up here and went to public schools, graduating from Newport High School. I studied Aerospace in Arizona and got my master’s in Computing Software Systems from the University of Washington, Bothell.

I work as a Software Engineer in flight simulation. I look at problems like an engineer—finding practical solutions. I have two children in the Issaquah School District who are neurodivergent, and I want to make sure our schools are a place where all kids can learn, grow, and succeed.

I’ve personally navigated the school system’s programs like the 504 plan and IEP to get the right help for my kids. If I’m elected, I want to help all families in our area as your school board representative.

Sydne Mullings

I have served on the Issaquah School Board since 2019, where I advocate for student success, family engagement, and equitable opportunities for all learners. As a Highlands resident since 2014 and the parent of one Issaquah School District graduate and one current student, I’m deeply invested in our local community.

Professionally, I lead Marketing for the U.S., Canada, and Latin America at Microsoft, bringing over 25 years of experience driving innovation across healthcare, financial services, and manufacturing. As a graduate of Penn State University and DePaul University, I’m committed to championing excellence in our schools and ensuring every student has access to a supportive, inclusive, and high-quality education.

My community service spans many years, including currently serving on the advisory board of After-School All-Stars Puget Sound. I’m running for re-election to continue strengthening school-family partnerships and to ensure every student is prepared to thrive in a rapidly changing world.