In the Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified school board election, political signs are prominently displayed at an intersection in Yorba Linda. The results of the school board elections in California are still pending in most counties, but some races have already been decided.
This year, there was a significant focus on the educational policies regarding gender identity and racial equity in the school board elections. In Temecula Valley Unified, Joseph Komrosky, a conservative board member, was recalled in June due to controversial policies he supported. However, Komrosky and other conservative candidates endorsed by the Riverside County Republican Party are currently leading in their races.
In San Jose Unified, Nicole Gribstad, supported by Moms for Liberty, a conservative group, is leading in the Trustee Area 5 race. The teachers union has campaigned against her, but the results are still being finalized.
In Orange Unified School District, the incumbents Ann Page, Sara Pelly, and Stephen Glass have all won re-election by a significant margin. The interest in local races has increased due to the influence of culture wars on school board decisions.
In Santa Ana Unified, there is a potential upset with conservative candidate Brenda Lebsack leading incumbent Rigo Rodriguez in the Trustee Area 1 race. The results for the other two seats are also being determined.
In Sunol Glen Unified, the former trustee Ryan Jergensen, who supported conservative policies on gender identity, is currently trailing in his bid to reclaim his seat.
The Los Angeles Unified School District is also undergoing a change in leadership with three board seats up for election. The union-endorsed candidates are currently leading in all three races, with only the District 3 race being close.
In the West Contra Costa Unified race, incumbent Otheree Christian is trailing challenger Guadalupe Enllana. Enllana has been critical of the district’s financial management and lack of transparency in decision-making.
The school board elections in California have showcased the growing influence of various interest groups on educational policies and decisions. The final results will determine the direction of these school districts in the coming years.