Florida school board candidates face elections across multiple counties

Various Florida counties are preparing for school board elections that will address local education management, student well-being, and district finances.

In Okaloosa County, the District 5 race features incumbent Brett Hinely and challenger Cynthia West. The contest focuses on student mental health, bullying prevention, and district oversight. In Lee County, District 5 candidates Armor Persons, Carline Saintilus, and Crystal Johnson are debating academic progress versus declining enrollment and the need for increased educator and family voices.

In Glades County, the District 1 race between Angie Woodward Hough and Anita Thielan Sauls centers on financial expertise following a state takeover of the district's finances due to insufficient reserves. Meanwhile, in Calhoun County, Scott Barton and incumbent Ray Howell are competing for the District 2 seat, which oversees district policies, budgets, and academic standards.