ABOUT ME

My name is Ty Kuehl, and I’m running for Tumwater School Board, District 3. This community shaped who I am, and now I’m proud to raise my own children here and give back in a meaningful way.

I’m a product of the Tumwater School District — East Olympia Elementary, Bush Middle School, and Tumwater High School. My roots run deep: my father served over 30 years in Tumwater Schools as a teacher, coach, principal of both high schools, and later in district leadership roles including HR, capital projects, athletics, and assistant superintendent.

I grew up during the district’s transition from one high school to two and remember the community conversations that shaped that change. Though I graduated from THS, I have deep respect for Black Hills High School and believe strongly in supporting all schools equitably. Equity isn’t just a value I support — it’s something I’ve lived.

At a time when public education faces tough decisions, we need steady, student-centered leadership.

After high school, I attended the University of Washington and earned my BA from Saint Martin’s University in management and marketing. My career in manufacturing and importing has spanned customer service, procurement, sales leadership, budgeting, and strategic planning. I believe in collaborative, team-first environments where every voice matters.

My wife Anesse and I chose to return to Tumwater to raise our four children — Grady (3rd grade), Merritt (2nd), Emmy (pre-K), and Reese (2). Two attend East Olympia Elementary, and the others will follow. Anesse, a Doctor of Physical Therapy, has served our region for over a decade. We share a deep belief in education, community, and service.

In our home, learning and cultural awareness are core values. We’ve hosted au pairs from Mexico, the Netherlands, and South Africa, giving our kids a global perspective we cherish.

I’ve always valued extracurriculars — sports, music, theater, debate — as essential to student growth and connection. I played sports growing up and later coached locally. Our family stays active in school fundraisers, athletics, the arts, and after-school programs. We believe kids thrive when they’re engaged, supported, and challenged.

Above all, I’m a dad. Raising four kids is my most important role. I strive to model respect, hard work, and love — and I want every student in our district to feel seen, safe, and inspired to reach their full potential.