Incumbents seek return to school board

The seats of longtime incumbent Jan Iceland and recent appointee Barbara Laifman are up for election on the Oak Park School Board. Both incumbents say they will run.

Iceland, who's seeking her fifth term, was elected in 1991. She's served longer than any of the other current members. Board Chair Cindy Vinson is in her third term; Marie Panec and Mary Rees are in their second terms.

Long active in education not only in Oak Park but also on the state and federal level, Iceland said she understands the lobbying process needed to retain such programs as arts, technology, special education, atrisk and gifted education.

"Everything we've worked so hard to bring to Oak Park we need to fight to keep," Iceland said. "Nothing is more important to the future of our country than the education of our children."

The board chose Laifman in November from a number of applicants to fill the remainder of longtime boardmember Jim Kalember's term after he moved to Arizona. Laifman said she was honored to have been chosen and has enjoyed serving on the board. Laifman has three children in Oak Park schools at the elementary, middle and high school levels.

"I truly represent the Oak Park community," Laifman said. "I strive to bring about the best for the district's multitude of interests while keeping the children's voice in the forefront of my mind."

Interested candidates may pick up applications at the district office at 5801 Conifer Street or at the Ventura County Elections Division.