Kay Smith-Blum, Betty Patu take big leads in early Seattle School Board returns

Clothing-store owner Kay Smith-Blum had a commanding lead in early returns over incumbent Mary Bass in one of two contested races for Seattle School Board, while retired educator Betty Patu was well ahead of scientist Wilson Chin in the other.

Smith-Blum had received the most votes in the August primary, outpolling Bass and two other candidates in District 5, which includes the Central Area, Capitol Hill and part of downtown Seattle.

Now, with 64 percent of the early vote, Smith-Blum appears poised to unseat Bass, who was seeking a third four-year term.

Smith-Blum ran an energetic campaign, but made so many proposals that some considered her unrealistic, given that she would be just one of seven board members.

Bass, facing criticism that she's been ineffective in office, stressed a desire to continue her role as a voice for students and families who often don't speak up for themselves.

Patu, with 68 percent of the vote Tuesday, raised less money than Chin in District 7, which includes most of Seattle south of Interstate 90, excluding West Seattle. But Patu has strong name recognition because of her role in many Southeast Seattle organizations, including those that serve South Pacific Islanders.

Chin volunteered for more than a dozen years at Kimball Elementary, which his four children attended.

The winner will replace Cheryl Chow, who didn't seek re-election.

School Board President Michael DeBell, running unopposed, will gain a second term on the board.