Public commenters clash over Chad Zimmerman during Orange Unified trustee process

Allegations and endorsements of candidate behavior figured prominently in public comment at the Orange Unified School District’s May 2 special meeting.

Alexander Tran, who identified himself as a student representative, told trustees he had been targeted by actions he characterized as bullying by applicant Chad Zimmerman during Rotary youth activities, and he urged the board to reject Zimmerman's application for Trustee Area 4: “His bullying of Area four's only student trustee should be a grave concern,” Tran said during public comment. The transcript records Tran testifying that Zimmerman tried to withhold financial support and leadership opportunities from student leaders over political speech.

Zimmerman had earlier presented his candidate statement describing long community service—14 years as an OUSD parent, leadership roles in Rotary, prior city council service and volunteer work at district schools—and asserting a record of civility and fiscal oversight. In his remarks he said his community work and board experience would contribute to transparent decision‑making.

Several community members spoke in Zimmerman's favor. Angie Guzman described years of volunteering with Zimmerman and called him “a voice of reason” who supports schools; former board member Kathy Moffett also praised both Zimmerman and Sarah Pelley for their community service and experience.

Trustee discussion acknowledged both the public criticisms and the endorsements. One trustee asked the board not to treat public comments as conclusive without giving applicants a chance to respond; trustees ultimately nominated and appointed Sarah Pelley for Area 4 and Dr. Stephen Glass for Area 7 in separate votes announced as 4‑0‑1.

The allegation made by the student and the testimonials supporting Zimmerman remain part of the public record from the meeting. The transcript contains the student’s statements and multiple endorsements but does not record a formal investigation or board finding on the bullying claim during the special meeting.