Director Matt Carreon’s Poor Attendance Record Questioned
Last updated on 10/19/2023
Tahoma School Board Director Matt Carreon's attendance record has come into question in light of demands for leadership and accountability within the district. With Matt Carreon seeking reelection against longtime local resident Patrick Peacock, many are concerned that Carreon may not be able to commit the necessary time to the district. Peacock, on the other hand, has attended nearly every meeting as a concerned citizen since 2022, broadcasting the events on YouTube to enhance community engagement.
According to both meeting minutes and video broadcasts, Carreon has been absent for over half of the school board meetings that took place between January and August 2023. Whether it's leaving early or not showing up entirely, Carreon's schedule appears to not permit the time dedication required for the position. It is no secret that Director Carreon is well-spoken and qualified for the position, but many parents are simply concerned that a lack of time commitment is hindering his ability to lead the district at a time when leadership is lacking.
Update 10/19/2023
Matt Carreon’s attendance remains haphazard. During last week’s school board meeting on 10/10, Director Carreon showed up late, once again remoting into the meeting, well after it had started. Upon speaking, Carreon stated “The actions in Israel have made my job a little tougher providing defense stuff for that country so DC called.” Veterans in the community quickly pointed out that Carreon did not appear to be in DC in a capacity of “official defense duties,” but was rather working at the AUSA trade show for his company.
It should be noted that the company’s presence at AUSA would have been coordinated well in advance. It is possible, however, that Carreon was called to work at the tradeshow with short notice due to global conflict, causing a recall of one of his business colleagues. Carreon’s statement appears to have confused community members into believing his absences are related to continuing military service, but this is not the case.
On 10/19, the school board conducted interviews of firms that could be hired to assist in finding a new superintendent for the Tahoma School District. Director Carreon appears to have been absent from this process according to those present.
While there is certainly nothing wrong with pursuing business endeavors that require frequent travel, Tahoma Parents believes that Carreon should be honest about his absences and ability to serve on the school board. There is only a finite amount of time in the day, and at a certain point one must admit that his or her inability to commit the necessary time results in a negative impact for the district.
