San Francisco Board of Education candidates outline plans during election forum

The San Francisco Board of Education candidates gathered for a forum on July 4, 2025, to discuss their visions and priorities ahead of the upcoming election. The event, organized by the League of Women Voters, aimed to provide voters with insights into the candidates' perspectives on critical issues affecting education in the city.

The forum began with each candidate delivering a brief introduction, highlighting their backgrounds and motivations for running. Alita Fisher, a special education advocate and parent, emphasized the need for increased support services in schools, advocating for a budget that prioritizes student needs. Anne Hsu, a business professional and current board member, called for a focus on student achievement and operational excellence, criticizing past board politics that detracted from educational outcomes.

Gabriela Lopez, a former board member and educator, stressed the importance of educator perspectives in decision-making, while Karen Fleischman, with a background in youth workforce development, highlighted the need for transparency and collaboration in budgeting. Lainie Motamedi, a parent and budget advisory committee member, expressed her commitment to fiscal responsibility and rebuilding trust within the district. Lisa Weisman Ward, an immigration attorney and educator, underscored the importance of community engagement and accountability in the board's operations.

Throughout the forum, candidates addressed pressing issues such as food insecurity, declining enrollment, and the need for improved facilities. They collectively rejected the idea of closing schools, advocating instead for enhancing existing programs and ensuring equitable access to quality education across all neighborhoods. The candidates acknowledged the challenges posed by a structural budget deficit and emphasized the need for a holistic review of spending and program effectiveness.

As the forum concluded, candidates reiterated their commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive educational environment. They expressed a shared vision of prioritizing student success, enhancing community engagement, and ensuring that all families feel confident in the public education system. With the election approaching, the candidates' discussions highlighted the critical decisions facing San Francisco's educational landscape and the importance of informed voting for the community's future.