The Importance of Engaging in School Board and Down-Ballot Races in Nevada Democracy Project
In a recent community listening session organized by the Nevada Democracy Project, participants highlighted the significance of actively participating in races with high stakes on their day-to-day lives. Sheila Moulton, a long-time resident of Las Vegas, shared her concerns about the state of the local education system, which she described as heartbreaking. As a former Clark County School District trustee, Moulton expressed dismay over the system’s current trajectory, noting that it has been plagued by division and conflict.
One of the major points of contention within the district has been the strained relationships between district leaders, the school board, and lawmakers. In 2021, the board made the controversial decision to fire and subsequently rehire former Superintendent Jesus Jara, sparking widespread criticism and calls for his resignation. The following year, Jara faced further scrutiny for his handling of teacher contract negotiations, prompting Democratic legislative leaders to demand his removal.
In response to these challenges, Moulton and six other former trustees established the A Better Choice political action committee in 2020. The PAC’s primary objective is to encourage voter engagement in supporting, electing, and holding accountable school board trustees. Moulton emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration within the community, particularly as the board is currently in the midst of selecting a new superintendent.
The Nevada Democracy Project’s fourth community listening session, which focused on education issues and election questions, brought together concerned citizens at the East Las Vegas Community Center. Attendees voiced a range of concerns, spanning from the state of Nevada’s education system to local infrastructure and the escalating levels of political polarization in the country.
Randy Robison, the director of government and community affairs for the City of Las Vegas, expressed apprehension about the state of democracy and questioned whether Americans have lost sight of the fundamental purpose and role of government. He underscored the importance of collective engagement in addressing societal challenges, emphasizing that meaningful change requires active involvement from all members of the community.
Amy Ferreira, a judicial candidate in Las Vegas, urged voters to pay closer attention to down-ballot races, including school board and judicial contests. She emphasized the significant impact that individuals in these positions can have on the daily lives of residents, far surpassing the influence of those at the top of the ballot. Ferreira stressed the importance of making informed decisions about who represents the community, highlighting the pivotal role that these officials play in shaping local policies and initiatives.
As the Nevada Democracy Project continues to foster civic engagement and community dialogues, it serves as a vital platform for addressing pressing issues and mobilizing collective action. By promoting informed participation in school board and down-ballot races, the project aims to empower citizens to actively shape the future of their communities and advocate for meaningful change. Through open discussions and collaborative efforts, individuals can work towards building a more inclusive and responsive democracy that reflects the diverse needs and concerns of all residents.
