With four candidates running for two seats, next week’s school board election in San Diego could change the course of the school improvement agenda in the district. Three of the five current board members support the administration’s recent efforts, and two oppose them. One of those dissenters is not up for re-election. That means a win by the two candidates who oppose the reforms would tip the balance of power 3-2 in favor of the dissidents. Here are the key actors:
| The Administrators | The Union |
Superintendent Former federal prosecutor had no work experience in education before being hired in 1998. | San Diego Education Association President Says union has been shut out of planning school measures. Backs Jeff Lee and John deBeck to change school board majority. |
Chancellor of Instruction Former New York City district leader hired by Mr. Bersin to lead design of teaching and learning initiatives | |
School Board Candidates |
School Board Candidates |
| Katherine Nakamura, a lawyer, and Clyde Fuller, a retired FBI agent, concede that the reforms have taken their toll on staff members, but say the changes have been generally positive. | Jeff Lee, a former Navy officer, and incumbent John deBeck, a retired teacher, are highly critical of the school improvement efforts undertaken in the district since Mr. Bersin and Mr. Alvarado arrived. |
