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Board of Education Member Search

On February 17, 2023, Board Member Bowen Zhang resigned from the NUSD Board (effective February 28) via email to the County Superintendent.  Based upon board policy and state education code, we are moving forward with an appointment to fill the vacancy created by Trustee Zhang.  The Board has 60 days to do this from the date on which he sent his resignation to the County Superintendent, February 17, 2023.  That deadline for an appointment is April 18, 2023.

Proposed Timeline

  • March 3 (Fri):  Announce vacancy to the community (email blast plus outreach to community organizations and partners), publicly share application and FAQs.  Application window open for 19 days.  
  • March 22 (Wed):  Applications due no later than 3:00 p.m.  
  • March 23 (Thurs):  Board subcommittee approves candidates as eligible per information given.
  • March 24 (Fri):  Applicant names and their answers to application questions published on NUSD website for 10 days.   
  • April 3 or 4 (Mon or Tues):  Public comment and candidate interviews via special board meeting (open to the public) beginning at 6:00 or 6:30 p.m.
  • April 6 (Thurs):  New board member begins service, is sworn in, and participates in first board meeting. 

Subcommittee Membership

NUSD Bylaw states, "A committee consisting of less than a quorum of the Board shall ensure that applicants are eligible for Board membership and announce the names of the eligible candidates."  This should be a straightforward process requiring no evaluation of candidates' applications beyond the question of eligibility.  We would expect to conduct a short Zoom meeting with two board members on March 23, 2023, to perform this function.  

BOARD OF EDUCATION TRUSTEE APPLICATIONS: ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS

 

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Board Appointment 

Thank you for your interest in seeking appointment to the Governing Board of the Newark Unified School District.  As you know, a vacancy has occurred which may be filled by the remaining Board members within 60 days.  As you consider whether you would like to apply for an appointment to the Board, the following information may be of assistance.

1.)  Why is there a vacancy at this time?

On February 17, 2023, Board Member Bowen Zhang resigned from the NUSD Board.

2.)  What are the qualifications for serving on the Board?

A person must be a citizen of the United States, a resident of Newark Unified School District, at least 18 years old, and a registered voter. 

3.)  What do I need to apply for the position?

The Governing Board has determined that it will accept application materials which include a complete Application.  These materials are available by downloading the application from this webpage, picking up at the District Office located at  5715 Musick Ave, Newark CA 94560 or by calling 510-818-4112. Complete application materials must be received in the District Office, no later than 3:00 pm on Wednesday, March 22, 2023.  Applicants must be available for interviews with the Board at an open (public) meeting on April 3, 2023 or April 4, 2023.

4.)  If I am selected by the Board, when do I take office and when do I run for election?

The Board anticipates making a selection on April 3, 2023 or April 4, 2023. The new member will attend his or her first full Board meeting after being sworn in on April 6, 2023.  During the initial 10 days after the appointment, the Board must notify the community of the provisional appointment, including the name of the new Board member.  The appointment will become final in 30 days unless a petition is filed with the Alameda County Superintendent of Schools requesting an election, in which case a special election will be called to fill the vacancy.

After appointment becomes final, the Board member will serve until November 2024 at which time he or she may run for election for a new four-year term.

5.)  What other information should I consider?

Serving on the school board can be a valuable and satisfying way to make a significant contribution to the community. The Board, staff, parent and student community have enjoyed a collegial relationship. As public officials, Board members do have to comply with certain restrictions not encountered in their private lives.  Board members receive a monthly stipend for their service.  Election campaigns are completely separate from district activities and the candidate must fund the campaign with private contributions in accordance with the rules of the Fair Political Practices commission.

Upon assuming office, a Board member must file a Statement of Economic Interest which is a public document that discloses the Board member’s financial holdings and other economic interests within the boundaries of the District (excluding a personal residence).  Board members must restrain from Board activities which constitute a conflict of interest or which are incompatible with their role as Board member.

6.)  May I get additional information on the role and responsibility of a Board Member?

Yes, the California School Boards Association offers several publications on School Board Leadership, New Member Orientation and Governance Briefs. 

 Please feel free to contact the Board President or any Board member to discuss your interest in applying for appointment to the Governing Board of the Newark Unified School District.

The District and the entire community greatly appreciate your interest in serving the community.