New school board member sworn in

At the Feb. 19 school board meeting, Pierce County Superior Court Judge Alicia Burton (and Sumner High alum) conducted the swearing in ceremony for new School Board Director Tom Watson. A resident of Bonney Lake, he serves District 2, replacing Paul Williams.

A servant leader, Tom is eager to bring his skills, experience and heart for service to the Sumner-Bonney Lake School District to make a real impact.

“I’m not just stepping into this role, I’m hitting the ground running to help move our district forward. It’s about turning ideas into action and working together to create the best possible experience for our students, teachers, and families,” Tom said.

Since 1995, Tom has dedicated his life to serving the Bonney Lake community in a variety of capacities through community service activities and leadership roles in local organizations and initiatives, including Bonney Lake Lions Club, Beautify Bonney Lake, Communities for Families Coalition, Bonney Lake Kiwanis Club, Chamber Collective, and Sumner-Bonney Lake School District.

Tom is CEO of Watson’s Wooden Words, which serves as his hobby of creative woodworking and 3D sign-making. While enjoying this hobby as a business since 2008, Tom simultaneously served as a Bonney Lake City Council Member from 2012 to 2023, and a decades-long career in retail management prior to the city council.

Tom and his wife, Denise, have two children (Ryan and Jennifer) and two dogs (Max and Rosie).

A fun fact about Tom, he has visited every National Park west of the Mississippi. His deep appreciation for the outdoors started early, spending time with his father, who was a California State Park Ranger. Tom enjoys hiking around Mount Rainier and capturing the scenic memories through photography.

Welcome, Tom!