Voters in Downtown Long Beach head to the polls today to fill the open seat in District 3 for the Long Beach Unified School District Board of Education. Five candidates are in the running for the position left vacant after the September 1 resignation of Michael Shane Ellis.

District 3 is one of the most diverse areas of Long Beach. It covers the following schools: Chavez Elementary School, Edison Elementary School, International Elementary School, Lee Elementary School, Lincoln Elementary School, Stevenson Elementary School, Whittier Elementary School, Franklin Classical Middle School, and Renaissance High School for the Arts.

The Press-Telegram’s Kevin Butler recently interviewed each of the five candidates, Raymond Chavarria, Kate Conrath, Richard Lewis, John McGinnis, and Pauline Stenberg. All bring a wide-range of experience and ideas to the table. 

Raymond Chavarria states on his web site:

Times are tough and budgets are tight. But that is not an excuse to shortchange our schools. Our students deserve better.

Kate Conrath told the Press-Telegram:

I’ve seen what cutting faculty can do to a school, especially a school that is in need. I’m somebody who is going to stand up for what I believe in. 

Richard Lewis states on his web site: 

I have been an active leader in our community for more than 10 years, and have built relationships and networks that will make me a strong advocate for our children. 

John McGinnis states on his web site:

I’m running for the school board to continue my lifelong commitment to the education of school children. I’ll draw on my 40 years of education experience to contribute positively to our community.

Pauline Stenberg told the Press-Telegram:

I know that I bring a parent’s perspective, a fresh look. And I think the board needs a fresh look. I think coming from the PTA gives me that edge.

lbpost.com will cover tonight’s results live. Click here to find your polling location.