Fresno Unified’s new school board trustee takes oath of office ahead of first meeting
With one hand on a book by his late father, Andy Levine was sworn in by his mother Wednesday afternoon as the new Fresno High-area trustee for the Fresno Unified school board.
The new trustee took the oath of office in front of dozens at McLane High School’s cafeteria ahead of Wednesday’s regular board meeting.
“To have like my community here to celebrate this moment with me,” Levine told the Education Lab, “means a whole lot.”
After taking a hefty lead the night of the April 12 special election, the Fresno County Clerk’s Office certified Levine’s win on April 29. He received 57.55% percent of the vote and cruised to victory over three other candidates.
With regard to his choice of book for the swearing-in ceremony, Levine said his father, Robert, who passed away a few years ago, is his “guiding light.”
“This is a responsibility that I don’t take lightly, and I’ll be thinking about him in this role every day,” Levine said.
Multiple district administrators could be seen at the ceremony, including fellow trustees Veva Islas, Keshia Thomas, Valerie Davis, and Superintendent Bob Nelson. The Fresno Teachers Association President Manuel Bonilla was also present. The union endorsed Lavine’s campaign during the race.
Davis said the passing of Carol Mills, the previous Fresno High trustee, last year left a void on the board, but that she’s excited for Levine to “jump in with two feet” and learn as much as he can about the new role.
“The community has spoken. They elected him,” Davis said, “so we welcome him on our board.”
The Education Lab is a local journalism initiative that highlights education issues critical to the advancement of the San Joaquin Valley. It is funded by donors. Learn about The Bee’s Education Lab at its website.
