In 8 Chiefs' Races, 3 Incumbents Seek Re-Election

By Adrienne D. Coles and Melanie Lasoff

Incumbents are seeking re-election in only three of the eight states where voters will select state school chiefs next month, and the results of at least two races will be historic no matter what the outcome.

In California, a woman will become superintendent of public instruction for the first time, while Florida will elect either its first black education commissioner or the first Republican to hold the post.

While both contenders in California's officially nonpartisan race are Democrats, the campaign has focused largely on...