A number of newcomers are seeking more influence in education policy in Unit 5 schools amid a year in which the coronavirus has upended how children are trying to learn.Seven candidates filed to run for school board in Bloomington-Normal’s two public school systems, while nearby school districts saw fewer candidates file.
Monday was the first day to file for school board races in Illinois ahead of the April 6, 2021, election.
In Unit 5, five candidates submitted nominating petitions for three open seats.
Janelle Czapar, Gavin Cunningham and Ericka Ralston are running for one seat on the board. Their township district allows the election of one candidate.
Kentrica Coleman and Stan Gozur are running in a township district that allows for up to two candidates to be elected.
The seats of current board members Taunia Leffler, Meta Mickens-Baker and Mike Trask are up for election. Those three did not file on Monday.
In District 87, school board president Brigette Beasley Gibson and member Chuck Irwin filed on Monday. The district has four, four-year terms open. The seats of board members Elizabeth Fox Anvick and Kiasha Henry also are up for election.
In Olympia schools, incumbents Doug Maris and Mary Springer filed. The district in western McLean County has four seats up for election in the spring.
In Tri-Valley schools in Downs, the board has three open seats. So far, incumbent Brian Myers is the only candidate to file.
The filing deadline is 5 p.m. Dec. 21.
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