Many Sequim residents might know that Eric Pickens has served on the Sequim School Board for the past several years, but may know little else about him. The Gazette invited Pickens to respond to questions so that his Sequim neighbors could get to know him better. Here are his responses:
Where are you from originally?
“I grew up in Washington State and graduated from Chimacum High School. Although I did grow up here, I spent many years in New England. It wasn’t until 2014 that I decided to return to the Olympic Peninsula. I wanted to be closer to my family and also needed a break from the harsh winters of New England.”
What is your day job?
“I am currently an elementary teacher working with the Port Angeles School District. I started my teaching career as a first grade teacher working at Franklin Elementary School in Port Angeles. I currently work with students in kindergarten through third grade at Seaview Academy.
“Teaching keeps me closely connected to students, families, and the real-world impacts of education policy.”
Why did you choose education as your career?
“I chose education because I believe schools can change life trajectories, especially for students in under-resourced communities. I taught first grade because it is one of the most important foundational years for students. They are learning to read, building confidence, and forming relationships. My classroom experience continues to shape how I lead and make decisions today.”
When and why did you first run for the Sequim School Board?
“I first ran for the Sequim School Board in 2019 because I wanted to bring an educator’s perspective to district leadership and ensure decisions were grounded in what students and staff experience every day. I believe school boards work best when they are collaborative, transparent, and focused on long-term student success.
“I have served on the Sequim School Board since 2019 and have been board president since 2021.”
Would you like to share any information about your family?
“Family is deeply important to me, and they are a steady source of support. I have been married for 25 years, and I have two amazing kids.”
What is your favorite movie and/or book?
“I enjoy science fiction. I have always been a fan of “Star Wars” since I was a kid.
What do you like to do with your free time?
“I enjoy being active in the community, spending time outdoors on the Olympic Peninsula, and supporting local organizations like the Sequim Farmers and Artisans Market. I also value time to read, reflect and recharge.”
Finish this sentence: “It might really surprise people to know that I …”
“It might really surprise people to know that before becoming an educator, I spent more than a decade in business management and also served four years in the U.S. Coast Guard. Outside of my career, I also really enjoy skateboarding!”
What do you most want people to know about you?
“I want people to know that my commitment to public education is both professional and personal. Whether I’m teaching, serving as a school board president, or advocating at the state level, my focus is always on ensuring every student — especially those in small and rural communities — has access to a high-quality, fully funded public education.”
Sequim Gazette photo by Monica Berkseth/ Teacher and Sequim School Board member Eric Pickens reads a book to a group of students at Seaview Academy in Port Angeles.
