Dranesville School Board Challenger Wins Second Teacher Endorsement

Dranesville School Board challenger Louise Epstein captured a second major teacher endorsement yesterday. The Fairfax Federation of Teachers backed her instead of long-time school board member Jane Strauss.

The Fairfax County Federation of Teachers, one of two influential teacher organizations in the county, endorsed Epstein along with four other Republicans and six Democrats. The school board races are officially nonpartisan but both parties endorse a slate of candidates. It's difficult, if not impossible to run for the school board without a party endorsement.

The race for the county's 12 school board seats is shaping up as one of the hottest races this election year. Six of the 12 are open seats. The board has been awash in controversial decisions recently – including the closing of Clifton Elementary School and the revamping of the the school disciplinary policy to be less onerous on students.

The teacher organization endorsements are important because many voters don't know the school board candidates and cast their votes based on recommendations by organizations they trust.

"I'm thrilled to be endorsed by the Fairfax County Federation of Teachers as well as the Fairfax Education Association," said Epstein a long-time parent activist. "I have worked with teachers for many years to improve our schools, and I look forward to continuing to collaborate with them."

Steven L. Greenburg, president of the county's Federation of Teachers said, "Leadership of our school system lies in the hands of the School Board members. Their ability to empathize with your needs, provide leadership and direction, and respect your perspectives will determine our future in areas of salary, pension, working conditions, benefits, instruction, curriculum and assessment."

Greenburg attended Epstein's campaign kickoff in June. At the kickoff his name-tag read "Janie's Nightmare" under his name.

Last week the Fairfax Education Association, the other major teacher organization, also endorsed Epstein.

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Monday night both Epstein and Strauss appear at a public debate at McLean High school sponsored jointed by the McLean Citizens Association and the Greater McLean Chamber of Commerce.

Election Day is Nov. 8