Across California, educators are rising to answer another call to public service – by running for election to school boards this November.

Seeking to bring their knowledge and experience about schools and education to school boards in their home communities, these educators are stepping up to build the schools all students deserve as elected policymakers. We’ll be spotlighting a number of educators running for school board here at the digital home of California Educator as the November Election approaches.

Meet one of these education champions: Cesar Fernandez, a secondary educator and member of Sweetwater Education Association, who is running for Chula Vista Elementary School Board.

Why are you running for school board?

I was appointed to the board a year ago and am running because I enjoy leading from the dais. I am a parent of a child in the district and want to provide all the students with robust learning opportunities. My experience in classroom and as a union leader provides me with a unique perspective to be an effective board member.

What are your top priorities for the school district?

We all know how distance learning affected the progress of many of our young students. My top priority is ensuring the district provides more supports and opportunities for our neediest students. I also want to continue to expand our social and emotional support for students, by providing counselors and therapists districtwide. Lastly, I hope to establish two successful community schools in our district that will help our families and students that need those services to thrive.

Why did you decide that now is the time to serve your community as an elected official?

My experience in education and my local has brought me to the point where I need to serve education from a different post. Providing a quality education and opportunities for enrichment has been my passion in this field, and I’d like to now provide those as a board member.

What would you like to say to your fellow CTA members about running for elected office?

Do it. We need more educators to be on school boards. If you love teaching and your community, then just go for it. We need you out here keeping public education strong.

Website: cesarforschoolboard.com
Twitter, Instagram: @czareff
Facebook: @Cesar4CVESD