Salem, OR – As the May 20, 2025, Salem-Keizer School Board election approaches, voters in the district’s Zone 7 are preparing to choose their next representative. The seat, which currently belongs to María Hinojos Pressey, will be left vacant as she is not seeking re-election. The election, which will also determine other positions across the board, is set to see two contenders vie for the position, each with distinct backgrounds and priorities.
The Candidates
Mel Fuller
Mel Fuller enters the race with a wealth of community involvement and a deep understanding of the challenges facing local students. A legal transcriptionist by profession, Fuller has strong roots in the Salem-Keizer community. She is a parent of two children who attend local schools and has actively contributed to education initiatives, volunteering at both Highland Elementary and Parrish Middle School. Fuller has chaired the parent club at Parrish Middle School, an experience she says has shaped her understanding of the needs of both students and educators.
Fuller holds a bachelor’s degree in history from Oregon State University. Her campaign focuses on improving early literacy, emphasizing the critical importance of ensuring that every child is reading at grade level by third grade. A strong advocate for teacher support, Fuller aims to forge stronger partnerships between educators, parents, and the community to enhance educational outcomes, particularly in the area of literacy.
Jeremiah Radka
Jeremiah Radka brings a different skill set to the table with a background in information technology and private transportation services. Having worked for 20 years in the IT industry, including owning his own small business, Radka’s expertise lies in problem-solving and innovative thinking. He currently works as a private for-hire transportation provider.
Radka holds an associate’s degree in applied science from Linn-Benton Community College and attended Portland Community College. However, details about his campaign priorities remain somewhat unclear. As of the latest available information, Radka’s campaign website was not live, and he has not outlined specific policies or goals. Voters will likely want to learn more about his stance on educational issues in the coming weeks.
Election Details
The election for Zone 7 is part of a larger vote that will determine the composition of the Salem-Keizer School Board. The election is district-wide, meaning all voters in the district will have the opportunity to vote on all open seats, including the Zone 7 position.
Voters should expect their ballots to be mailed by May 1, 2025, and must ensure they are registered by the April 29 deadline. The term for the successful candidate will span four years.
Looking Ahead
With a focus on early literacy, teacher support, and community partnerships, Fuller has positioned herself as a candidate deeply committed to addressing the immediate needs of students. Meanwhile, Radka’s background in IT and business may appeal to voters looking for a fresh perspective on school board governance. With just weeks until election day, it is expected that both candidates will continue to share their visions for the future of education in Salem and Keizer.
As voters prepare to head to the polls on May 20, 2025, Zone 7 residents will have an important decision to make. The outcome of this election will shape the district’s educational policies and priorities for years to come.
For more information on the election, voters can refer to official school district and county election websites.
