Candidates share their message to parents, thoughts on AI, and declining enrollment

The Fullerton School District Board of Trustees has five members that govern 20 schools serving 11,420 students in grades kindergarten through 8th. The district covers most of the city of Fullerton.

There are two board seats on the November 5, 2024 ballot. In both races, the incumbent is running against a challenger.

In Trustee Area 2, current Board Vice President Hilda Sugarman, who was first elected in 1996, is facing James Cho, a district parent who attended FSD schools in the 1990s, and is a Lt. Col. in the Air Force Reserve. Trustee Area 2 includes Fern Drive Elementary, Laguna Road Elementary, Sunset Lane Elementary, and Robert C. Fisler School.

In Trustee Area 5, current Board President and district parent Leonel Talavera is running for reelection against FSD parent, volunteer, and local business owner Vanesa Estrella. Trustee Area 5 has five FSD campuses including: Nicolas Junior High School, Commonwealth Elementary, Maple Elementary, Richman Elementary, and Woodcrest Elementary.

$262 Million Bond Measure

All registered voters in the FSD will also be able to consider Measure N, a $262 million bond measure to repair aging classrooms, remove asbestos and lead pipes, among other projects. It must garner at least 55% of the vote to pass.

All four of the candidates are backing Measure N.

"Our aging schools need our community’s support now more than ever. Our schools are our students’ second home, and it’s crucial that these spaces are safe, welcoming, and up-to-date for their growth and well-being," Talavera wrote of Measure N in an Instagram post.

"As a homeowner and business owner, I’m willing to pay a little extra each month to ensure our children have basic necessities like working bathrooms, functioning air conditioning during heatwaves, and safe classrooms where ceiling tiles won’t fall on them during class," Estrella wrote in part of statement e-mailed to Spotlight Schools. 

"Our schools are in need of modernization and repair. Our children deserve nothing less. I fully support our Measure N School Bond," Sugarman wrote in response to our candidate questionnaire.

"If we pass Measure N, every dollar we raise will stay in Fullerton and we can get matching Prop 2 state funds! If we don’t, our Prop 2 tax dollars will fund other school districts. Measure N is also why this race is so important: when we decide how to spend these funds, we need a parent on the Board who understands what our schools need today," Cho wrote in an email to Spotlight Schools.

Find out more about Measure N here.

A Closer Look at the Candidates

This is your chance to learn more about the people hoping to be elected to govern your local schools. Remember that school board races in Orange County are nonpartisan. The candidates are listed below in alphabetical order. You can find links to their official candidate statements, campaign websites, and social media accounts, and any forums or debates that were recorded on video.

But the most important information is in their responses to the Spotlight Schools Candidate Questionnaire. Spotlight Schools emailed the same seven questions to all of the candidates for the FSD Board of Trustees. Candidates were asked to limit their responses to 125 words per question.

Is there a question you want the candidates to answer that we didn't ask? Email us your thoughts at hello@spotlightschools.com.

Who is Running for the Fullerton School Board?

Trustee Area 2: Fern Drive, Laguna Road, and Sunset Lane Elementary Schools and Robert C. Fisler School

James Cho

Candidate Statement / Campaign Website / Social Media / Candidate Forum

1. What are three programs in your district that you would like to see get more funding?

Our priority should be to reduce class sizes, but here are three other programmatic priorities. First, the District should stop cutting bus lines and charging kids $400 to ride them. Reliable transportation to and from our taxpayer-funded public schools should be free, and it will reduce traffic in our neighborhoods and help parents with busy schedules. Second, we should better fund cafeteria services. “Healthy” and “tasty” should not be an either/or; we can have both, where parents no longer feel like they have to pack lunches. Finally, family situations have changed, with parents often juggling school drop-offs with elder care or full-time jobs. That’s why we should strengthen our support for before- and after-school programs.

2. What is your message to district parents about your candidacy?

Prior to this election, you didn’t know who your School Board Trustee was. Sometimes you don’t know what the District is doing. You don’t feel heard, and you wish your school had more support. It doesn’t have to be this way. I respect and appreciate how the incumbent has served on the School Board for 28 years, but it’s time for a fresh voice. I drop off my son at school the same time you do, and I get nervous for the same parent-teacher conferences. Like you, I try to help with the same PTAs and Foundations, and struggle to balance work with being a parent and a spouse. Why shouldn’t we be represented by someone who understands what we’re going through today?

3. What do you want the students in your school district to know about your candidacy?

The same person that represents you on the Fullerton School Board now represented me when I was in elementary school. When I was a kid at Sunset Lane and Laguna Road, we’d occasionally have local politicians show up for events. None of them ever looked like me. When I asked my Dad why there was never a Korean person, he told me there’d never be one. Well, I’m going to change that. Even though Sunset Lane and Laguna Road students are over 60% Asian American, we still haven’t had that kind of representation on the Fullerton School Board. As adults, we always tell you that you’re the future; I hope this election proves it to you.

4. There is heightened debate about students using personal cellphones during the school day. Do you think cellphones should be allowed on campuses or banned?

The District would’ve benefited from active engagement with the community regarding its new cell phone policy (effectively banning cell phones). Yes, there was passive engagement, e.g., flyers, but different communities will feel differently. Getting the policy right means getting buy-in from all parents, otherwise teachers are going to be left playing bad cop alone. Many working parents or non-English speakers who can’t go to every Board meeting felt conflicted and blindsided by the change, and now it’s much harder to give teachers the support they need to enforce the new policy.

5. How teachers and students utilize Artificial Intelligence in education is also being debated. What is your view about the role of AI in your school district?

Children shouldn’t be guinea pigs, and there’s a real danger of being bamboozled by the siren songs of private companies and consultants eager to make a quick buck off new technologies. As the District’s new cellphone ban suggests, our schools should be more careful with how and when we introduce technology to developing children. AI—like many other tools—can be used for good or ill, and I look forward to working with teachers, staff, and parents on responsible and deliberate incorporation of best practices. If we rush, we risk sacrificing the good old-fashioned basics of what makes for a great public education at the increasingly crowded altar of “innovation.”

6. School districts across Orange County are dealing with declining enrollment, with some even being forced to close campuses. What are your ideas to deal with this ongoing issue?

This is the biggest problem for our public schools, and one that’s most out of the District’s control. There are many factors, but declining enrollment means declining funding, and people are having fewer children with higher costs-of-living. This is why we need a working parent to help the District focus on priorities that make it easier for families, e.g., before and after-school childcare and transportation. Similarly, we need that perspective to work with city council and state legislators on cross-jurisdictional cost-of-living issues. Finally, we need someone who will cheerlead our public-school teachers and staff instead of undermining confidence by dog-whistling or winking at those spreading misinformation about what happens in our public schools.

7. Tell us about an endorsement that you think best illustrates what your campaign stands for.

I’m particularly proud of one endorsement, and that’s of Sarah Spero, a Sunset Lane teacher. Yes, there’s some symbolism that a teacher from my old elementary school is endorsing my campaign for school board, but I value her endorsement for something else it represents—bravery. It’s not easy to publicly call for change against an incumbent with close ties to the administrators; it’s doubly hard when that incumbent also heads a non-profit that controls donations to classrooms. Despite the risks, she’s sounding the alarm that we need someone new to keep the District accountable, that we need a parent who understands what kids and teachers are struggling with today, and that we should have someone who can better represent the community.

Hilda Sugarman

Candidate Statement / Campaign Website / Social Media / Candidate Forum

1. What are three programs in your district that you would like to see get more funding?

1) Additional funding for teacher in-services is important.  With ever advancing learning needs for students (like AI and changing forms of technology and film), money to support updated teacher education would enhance learning.

2) Our schools are in need of modernization and repair.  Our children deserve nothing less. I fully support our Measure N School Bond. 

3) Government mandates require a commitment to fund a percentage of the programs they impose. However, the government consistently falls short of meeting its legal obligation. For example, under the IDEA program, the government is supposed to cover 40% of special education costs but currently only funds 14.7%. Fully funding its responsibility would provide districts the millions of dollars owed, allowing resources for enriching programs like English language acquisition.

2. What is your message to district parents about your candidacy?

As a long time Board member, I am proud to have contributed in shaping our district’s progress. Known for innovative approaches, I’ve worked to bring “forward-thinking” and long-standing relationships to benefit schools.

I’ve been a driving force behind several key initiatives that have enhanced our educational offerings. These include spearheading cutting-edge technology programs as well as introducing Korean Dual Language, middle college classes, and upholding high academic standards.

During my 18  year presidency of the Fullerton Education Foundation, I’ve helped raise and donate $3.5 million to support our schools. Efforts are paying off: Fullerton School District is named as the “Best School District in North Orange County 2024” by Parenting O.C. Magazine. Fullerton is an award-winning, technology-driven district—accomplishments that reflect my work and dedication. 

3. What do you want the students in your school district to know about your candidacy?

I want students to know that if I remain on the School Board, I will continue to visit their classrooms and school to understand and support their programs.  I will continue to listen to their suggestions and share their complaints with the proper authorities. I will continue to have serious discussions with them, attend their performances, showcase them at Fullerton Education Foundation events and continue to have students serve on the Education Board. I will continue to always be willing to meet with students to discuss issues. I will continue to advocate for students.

4. There is heightened debate about students using personal cellphones during the school day. Do you think cellphones should be allowed on campuses or banned?

Prior to this school year, our School Board banned the use of cellphones and smart devices on campus from “Bell to Bell”.  Cellphones use interfered with teaching and learning. That had to stop.

Our policy allows students to have their smart devices turned “off “ and in their backpack.  Their devices may be used in the event of an emergency or if a teacher wants students to use devices for a teaching /learning lesson.

I am in agreement with our policy.

5. How teachers and students utilize Artificial Intelligence in education is also being debated. What is your view about the role of AI in your school district?

AI is here to stay. Educators must embrace the fact that we need to teach students to use AI in appropriate ways and situations.  AI can be used for writing anything from poetry to academic essays. Also, AI can be used to create art, music and enrich science.  AI can augment student work and potentially give more time for other learning and individual interests.  Students must know the limits of AI and that it is not error free.  

There can be misuse and downsides to AI as well, and that must be monitored and discouraged.  Teachers must find a balance as students and staff embraces AI.

6. School districts across Orange County are dealing with declining enrollment, with some even being forced to close campuses. What are your ideas to deal with this ongoing issue?

Declining enrollment is definitely a current statewide issue. Housing costs, California taxes, lower family birthrate, and the increase of home schooling are some of the issues causing declining enrollment. Another issue is that some people don’t want to send their child to a particular public school if they feel the school is unsafe, unwelcoming or unkempt.  Those parents may move their children to home or private schooling.

To maintain enrollment, schools must have relevant programs taught by engaging, effective teachers in a safe, clean and welcoming environment. An excellent education is the strongest key to maintaining enrollment. Addressing these needs and being named “Best School District in North Orange County” will, hopefully, work to maintain our enrollment.

7. Tell us about an endorsement that you think best illustrates what your campaign stands for.

School Board is a nonpartisan, elected position.  Recently, voters look at candidates through a partisan lens.  I believe in the lens of nonpartisanship: evaluate the candidate. A Trustee should focus on the education of children. It should not be a stepping-stone to higher office

I am honored to have the support of Congresswoman Young Kim, California State Senator Josh Newman, Shawn Steel, Pastor Caleb Beller, and the Fullerton Elementary Teachers Association.  People ask me why such diverse people support me.  I answer, “My community shares their thoughts. I listen and act.”  Supporters are endorsing me for my proven record of innovation and devoted dedication to students and learning. Their approval is my highest honor. My campaign represents quality, compassionate, relevant student education for every child.

Trustee Area 5: Commonwealth, Maple, Richman Elementary, and Woodcrest Elementary Schools, and Nicolas Junior High

Vanesa Estrella

Candidate Statement / Campaign Website / Social Media / Candidate Forum

1. What are three programs in your district that you would like to see get more funding?

The top three priorities are 1) enhancing mental health supports, 2) addressing persistent inequities in educational outcomes, and 3) expanding early learning interventions, all of which are critical in District 5, where these disparities have gone unaddressed. 

The first step is obtaining accurate, disaggregated data to understand why District 5 schools, which are predominantly Latino and lower income (80-90%), have lower test scores than other areas. We need to identify root causes, such as why Latinos are disproportionately identified for special education. Using this information, I will advocate for targeted resources, early interventions, and greater wrap-around supports to bridge the gap. To support students holistically, we must also push for more mental health counselors, as current staffing levels do not meet demand.

2. What is your message to district parents about your candidacy?

As a PTA parent and District English Language  Advisory Committee (DELAC) President, I am deeply invested in the success of our schools. I’m running to ensure that all children have access to high-quality education, mental health resources, and safe learning environments. I know what it’s like to navigate the education system as a parent of a child with an Individual Education Plan (IEP) and an English Learner, and I want to make sure our schools meet every student’s needs. I will advocate for transparency, parental involvement, and programs that prioritize student well-being and academic success.

3. What do you want the students in your school district to know about your candidacy?

I’m running because I serve as DELAC President, and through that position, I saw firsthand that many people in our community don’t feel represented. Our community needs proactive leadership, which is why I’ll do everything I can to ensure every student has the support and opportunities they need to succeed. As a parent of a child with an IEP, I know the importance of advocating for our kids and making sure their voices are heard. I want to expand mental health resources, improve academic programs, and empower students to feel confident in standing up for what they need. My goal is to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels represented, valued, and supported.

4. There is heightened debate about students using personal cellphones during the school day. Do you think cellphones should be allowed on campuses or banned?

I am proud of the proactive steps the Fullerton School District has taken to reduce the negative impact of smartphones in schools ahead of the state’s July 2026 deadline. The district recently enforced a gate-to-gate, bell-to-bell cellphone ban during school hours, and, as a parent, I’ve already noticed its positive effects. Many parents share similar experiences, seeing how this policy has created a focused learning environment free from social media distractions. By limiting smartphone use, we’re fostering stronger student engagement and supporting their mental health. Fullerton is setting a strong example for other districts, and I commend the parents, teachers, staff, and board members who advocated for this important change to prioritize student well-being and learning.

5. How teachers and students utilize Artificial Intelligence in education is also being debated. What is your view about the role of AI in your school district?

I support using artificial intelligence in our schools to enhance learning through personalized educational experiences tailored to each student’s unique needs and pace. However, I understand the potential risks, like cyberbullying, associated with these technologies. The Fullerton School District is currently exploring best practices for AI integration, and I am dedicated to working with the board, teachers, and staff to create initiatives promoting digital citizenship and responsible technology use. I also support implementing comprehensive monitoring systems to detect and prevent online bullying. If we carefully balance the benefits of AI with vigilant protections, we can create a learning environment that effectively utilizes technology while ensuring student safety remains the top priority. My goal is to maximize AI’s potential while safeguarding our students.

6. School districts across Orange County are dealing with declining enrollment, with some even being forced to close campuses. What are your ideas to deal with this ongoing issue?

To address declining enrollment in the Fullerton Elementary District, we should focus on making our schools more appealing by expanding programs like RTI, arts, dual-language, and adding unique opportunities such as STEM and trade-related classes. Offering robust extracurriculars and wraparound services can attract and retain families. Building strong partnerships with community organizations and engaging in consistent outreach will help us understand and respond to parent needs. The goal is to maintain thriving schools with specialized offerings that make our district stand out.

7. Tell us about an endorsement that you think best illustrates what your campaign stands for.

I’m so proud to be endorsed by so many elected leaders, but the endorsements I’m most proud of are from the parents and teachers in my community. One teacher shared, “I have known Vanesa for many years, and as a teacher of FSD, I encourage you to support this super mujer. I have seen her at PTA, DELAC, ELAC, and district meetings. Vanesa has always been an advocate for not only her children’s education but for all FSD students.” Another said, “Since meeting Vanesa, I have seen her dedicate a significant amount of time and energy toward schools and her community. It’s clear she is passionate about public education and her community.” These voices reflect what my campaign stands for—dedication to our schools and families.

Leonel Talavera

Candidate Statement / Campaign Website / Social Media / Candidate Forum

1. What are three programs in your district that you would like to see get more funding?

These three programs would be my priority:

Academic Intervention Programs: These are essential for addressing learning loss and helping students catch up, especially post-pandemic. More resources would allow for additional staff, tutoring, and personalized learning plans.

After-School and Summer School Programs: Expanding these programs can provide students with additional learning opportunities, helping them stay engaged, improve skills, and prevent learning loss during school breaks.

Mental Health and Wellness Services: Students’ emotional well-being is key to their success. Expanding counseling services and wellness programs ensures that students have access to the support they need to thrive academically and personally.

These areas are crucial for fostering a supportive educational environment.

2. What is your message to district parents about your candidacy?

Education plays an important role in the current state and development of our community. As a current Trustee, I want to continue to ensure that we invest in our students' futures. A thriving school system is a thriving community. I am dedicated to serve as a bridge between the community and the school system, fostering collaboration and open communication between parents, educators, and students. I am passionate about advocating for policies that promote equal opportunities for all students, regardless of their background, socioeconomic status, or learning needs. I want to contribute to long-term strategic planning for the district, helping to set goals and develop initiatives that will benefit future generations of students.

3. What do you want the students in your school district to know about your candidacy?

I want the students in our district to know that I am committed to ensuring their success. My focus is on creating a learning environment that not only addresses academic needs but also supports their well-being. I will advocate for resources to reduce learning loss, improve school facilities, and make education more relevant to their lives. I believe in the power of after-school and summer programs to provide extra opportunities for growth, and I am dedicated to expanding mental health services to ensure students have the support they need. My goal is to make sure every student feels valued and has the tools to thrive academically, emotionally, and socially.

4. There is heightened debate about students using personal cellphones during the school day. Do you think cellphones should be allowed on campuses or banned?

I believe a balanced approach is key when it comes to cellphones on campus. While cellphones can be a valuable tool for learning and communication, they can also become a major distraction. Lucky for us at FSD, we have been able to create and implement a no cellphone policy from bell to bell. It was great to see the state also lead the way in passing a similar policy for local school districts to piggyback on. Educating students on responsible use is essential, as cellphones are part of everyday life. The goal should be to create an environment that fosters learning while teaching students how to manage technology responsibly.

5. How teachers and students utilize Artificial Intelligence in education is also being debated. What is your view about the role of AI in your school district?

I believe Artificial Intelligence (AI) can play a valuable role in enhancing education if used thoughtfully. AI has the potential to personalize learning by helping teachers tailor lessons to individual students' needs, track progress more efficiently, and identify areas for improvement. For students, AI can provide additional support through tools like tutoring systems and interactive learning platforms. However, it’s crucial that we ensure ethical use of AI, maintain teacher oversight, and focus on building students' critical thinking and creativity, rather than letting technology take over core aspects of learning. AI should complement, not replace, the human elements of education, empowering both teachers and students to achieve their full potential.

6. School districts across Orange County are dealing with declining enrollment, with some even being forced to close campuses. What are your ideas to deal with this ongoing issue?

To address declining enrollment, we need to focus on making our schools more attractive and responsive to the needs of families. This includes enhancing academic programs, such as STEM and arts, expanding after-school activities, and improving school facilities to create a more engaging learning environment. Strengthening partnerships with local businesses and community organizations can also provide students with real-world learning experiences that make education more relevant. Additionally, offering opportunities to our student athletes like our new Performance Academy sport program, which has drawn in families from outside the district. Lastly, we should engage in open communication with the community to understand their needs and concerns, ensuring our schools remain a desirable option for families.

7. Tell us about an endorsement that you think best illustrates what your campaign stands for.

One endorsement that best illustrates what my campaign stands for is from the Fullerton Elementary Teachers Association (FETA). I’m most proud of this endorsement because it reflects the trust and confidence that local educators have in my vision for our schools. FETA’s support highlights my dedication to addressing critical issues like reducing learning loss, improving school facilities, and expanding mental health resources. Teachers are on the front lines of education, and their endorsement shows that they believe in my commitment to creating a supportive, enriching environment for both students and staff. This endorsement underscores my focus on collaboration and a shared goal of helping every student succeed.