The Taxpayers Association of Indian River County (TPA) held a School Board Forum last week at the Vero Beach Yacht Club, featuring all candidates for the upcoming August election.
The event, chaired by TPA President Lance Lunceford, drew a significant crowd, including crucial community leaders and stakeholders.
Engaging Dialogue on Educational Challenges and Opportunities
The forum showcased Dr. Peggy Jones, Vice Chair of the School Board from District 3, Mr. Kevin McDonald, incumbent member from District 5, and candidates Mr. Rob MacCallum and Mr. David Dyer for Districts 3 and 5, respectively.
Each candidate was allowed to address pressing issues facing the school district, including the modest improvements in math and reading scores, planning beyond achieving top ratings, resolving tensions between parents and educators, and optimizing the school district’s budget.
Lunceford opened the event with a influential message about the Association’s role in empowering elected officials in a nonpartisan manner.
“Our Association’s role is to be the firmament of this region, empowering our elected officials in a nonpartisan manner to be the best versions of themselves for all of us,” Lunceford stated. As sovereign citizens, our job is to lead this community and stand unapologetically for the values of dignity, civility, and honor.”
Community Engagement and Questions
The forum attracted 118 attendees and was marked by the presence of leaders from various community organizations such as the NAACP, United Way of IRC, Moms for Liberty, and the Community Foundation.
The TPA facilitated a discussion by posing four critical questions to the candidates and fielding questions from the public.
Expanding Roles and Community Involvement
To strengthen oversight and community involvement, the TPA announced the appointment of Sunny Lulla as the Head of School District Oversight.
A Sebastian native, Lulla is currently the associate band director at Melbourne High School. Additionally, Rev. Joseph LaGuardia of First Baptist Church was appointed as the inaugural Chaplain to deliver invocations at TPA events.
Full Coverage and Accessibility
The entire forum, which includes opening statements and concluding remarks, is available for viewing on Facebook Live under “2024 School Board Forum.” Time stamps are provided for key segments.
The following time stamps may be helpful for viewers:
- 4:54-Announcements
- 11:15-Forum begins/Opening Statements
- 23:23-First Question
- 32:15-Second Question
- 39:33-Third Question
- 47:12-Fourth Question
- 54:53-Audience Question 1
- 1:02:22-Audience Question 2
- 1:09:20-Concluding Statements
- 1:16:36-Special Announcements and Forum Closing
This event highlights the Taxpayers Association’s commitment to fostering informed and engaged governance in Indian River County’s educational landscape.