Max Arias, Executive Director of SEIU Local 99, released the following statement:

“We are proud to have played a part in the re-election of Dr. Richard Vladovic. As school workers, we value his appreciation for the bus drivers, cafeteria workers, custodians, special education assistants and others who ensure that students can learn in clean, safe, supportive, and healthy campuses. As parents, we appreciate his commitment to ensuring all students have equal access to a quality education and for his support of good jobs that bring stability to our communities. We look forward to continue to work with him to strengthen our schools and ensure all working families at LAUSD can enjoy the safety and security of health care benefits.”

“We are disappointed that Tamar Galatzan and Bennett Kayser will not continue their tenure on the school board. They have led the school district through difficult and changing times. We appreciate that their decisions were often made with an understanding that education extends beyond the walls of the classroom. We are hopeful that many of the issues they championed – including early education, technology, student nutrition, family wellness, and community outreach – will continue to be central and important issues addressed by the new board.”

“We congratulate Ref Rodriguez and Scott Schmerelson. We look forward to working with them to continue to expand educational opportunities for all children and improve the livelihoods of our communities.”

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SEIU Local 99 is a union of  nearly 45,000 education workers in K-12 schools, early education centers and homes, administrative offices, and community colleges throughout Southern California, including more than 30,000 teacher assistants, custodians, cafeteria workers, bus drivers and others providing essential student services at LAUSD and more than 350 maintenance and operations workers at LACCD. Nearly 50% of SEIU Local 99 members are also parents or guardians of school-aged children.