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Former principal, incumbent elected to lead LAUSD board
Scott Schmerelson is the new president of the LAUSD board.
(
Mariana Dale
/
LAist
)
Third-term Los Angeles Unified Board Member Scott Schmerelson was unanimously elected Tuesday to lead the governing body. He defeated a well-funded challenger in November’s election.
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LAUSD welcomes new board members, elects next president
The former principal’s campaign was outspent by outside funders, including charter school backers, who dumped more than $5 million into the race to represent the West San Fernando Valley in Board District 3.
“We learned to work together against the power of money,” Schmerelson said.
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Two new board members and incumbent Tanya Ortiz Franklin were also sworn in during Tuesday’s annual meeting. District 2 Board Member Rocío Rivas will serve as board vice president.
Board District 1
Dorsey High alumna and former administrator Sherlett Hendy Newbill was elected to represent parts of West and South L.A.
“I am honored to be able to represent this board district which has done so much for me and my family as they came here — immigrants, wanting nothing but education for their children,” said Newbill, whose parents are from Belize.
Board District 5
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Karla Griego will represent a c-shaped district that includes North and Southeast L.A.
The former special education teacher and union activist invited the community to hold her accountable.
“We all know that change doesn’t happen with individuals, change happens with a movement and you are part of that movement,” Griego said.
Board District 7
Incumbent Tanya Ortiz Franklin retained her seat representing South L.A. to Gardena, Harbor Gateway, Carson, and San Pedro in the March primary.
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
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