In the upcoming Nov. 8 General Election, Beverly Hills residents will vote into office two new governing board members to the Beverly Hills Unified School District (BHUSD) Board of Education. While candidates cannot officially file with the Los Angeles County Registrar’s Office until the filing period, which runs from July 18 through Aug. 12, sitting board member Rachelle Marcus has announced she will run for her second term. The terms of Marcus and Gabriel Halimi, who was appointed last year after the resignation of Tristen Walker-Shuman, both expire this December. Although Halimi has indicated that he will not run, the Courier is aware of at least one other member of the community poised to enter the race.
Marcus will be the sole incumbent up for reelection. The longtime resident of Beverly Hills served as an educator for over 50 years in all five BHUSD schools.
“Over the last four years, our district, like every school district in the country, has faced unprecedented challenges,” Marcus told the Courier. “We must do all that we can to maintain excellent academic standards and provide our students with an exceptional TK-12 education. Facilities play a significant role in their educational experience, and we must ensure that the entire construction program is well-managed, within our budget, and completed as soon as possible. Additionally, now, as always, the safety and security of our students and staff remains of paramount importance. No child should ever be afraid to come to campus, and no teacher or support staff should have to worry about their safety when they come to work each day. Our district has made great strides, but we have more to do, and I hope to use my unparalleled institutional knowledge and love of this community to help make that happen.”
In a continuation of her first campaign, Marcus is running for reelection with her “Students First” pledge. Marcus served as Board President during the 2020-2021 school year, leading the district in the time of home learning; her oath of office was administered virtually by current Mayor Lili Bosse. An advocate for transparent legislating, Marcus promises to govern with the district’s vision and mission at the forefront.
“While serving on the Board for the past four years, she has been fully involved in all aspects of the schools,” the Committee to Re-Elect Rachelle Marcus announced to the Courier. “During her next term, she will be able to utilize the invaluable knowledge and experience she has gained since her election in 2018.”
Marcus will discuss her complete platform with the community at her campaign kickoff event, which will be held on Aug. 28 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the 705 N. Elm Drive home of Dr. Bud and Carol Foran.
The Board of Education consists of five members with staggered terms, elected to serve four-year terms. Board President Mary Wells, Vice President Noah Margo, and board member Dr. Amanda Stern have terms that expire in December of 2024. The Courier will continue to cover the race and provide updates as candidates enter the race for the BHUSD school board.
