We recognize the challenging task ahead as you embark upon the process of developing criteria for the conversion from “at large elections” to “distinct district elections “in accordance to the new state law.
The goal of this law is to provide greater equity and opportunity for local residents to more fully participate in the process of selecting local school board members either as voters or candidates for office to serve on the Board of Trustees.
Consideration of factors such as population, racial data, community impacts, school boundaries, federal election laws, etc. are part of the considerations you will undertake. Because you are drawing permanent boundaries for the district’s future your decision must be based upon an objective evaluation of what is in the best interest of the community at large for future generations.
At the October 14 Special Board Meeting President, Diana Hill, who has served on the Board for 9 years with term expiring in 2022, stated that another important criterion to be considered is the protection of present incumbent Board Members. She stated that she and Board Member, Dave Boyer, who has served on the Board for 15 years with term expiring in 2020, were neighbors in Los Alamitos and they both could not represent the same district. Therefore, to overcome this problem, Hill stated that protecting incumbents will be one of the valid criteria in drawing district boundaries.
We strongly oppose this deliberate skewing of the proposed district boundaries to protect a fellow Board Member’s seat. Everyone in the entire LAUSD community is affected in this newly established form of governance. We all are giving up options that were available in the previous “at large” format. Why is a special distinction given to an incumbent? Protecting a seat on the Board of Trustees by “arranging” the map to allow these board members to be placed in separate, “safe” districts so that they can each again run for office and retain their seats on the LAUSD School Board, is a blatant disregard for the spirit of the law. Incumbency should not be a criterion considered in drawing district maps.
We are hopeful that you will support the most equitable, reasonable, and impartial process as you proceed with this important task ahead.
Respectfully,
Donna Artukovic Former LAUSD School Board Member
Marilyn Bates Former LAUSD School Board Member
Del Clark Former LAUSD School Board Member
Mary Holzgang Former LAUSD School Board Member
Margaretha (Margrit) Kendrick Former LAUSD School Board Member
Virginia Wilson Former LAUSD School Board Member