Truth and lies: Pinocchio and nonpartisan races in Peoria Unified

OPINION — For years, I’ve watched school board meetings, seeing countless people speak denouncing school board members deemed “too political,” demanding neutrality. Ironically, some of those same commentators express enthusiasm when a vote furthers their political preferences.

Since running for Peoria Unified school board, regarding one-on-one engagement — whether it be going door to door, social media direct messages, emails, etc, — the top question asked is what political party I’m affiliated with. Many ask point blank. Others try to be subtle, asking which sitting board members I align with, or my thoughts of the current president, or if I support abortion? After explaining it’s a nonpartisan position, most still demand a direct answer. While we profess to keep politics out, those same mouths demand it front and center.

Great teachers and principals come from all parties. They can keep the political and personal agendas outside of school grounds. They share a common mission, a sole focus: kids. In reality, most children do not have a political preference. They simply desire to be seen, valued, and heard. It’s our privilege to serve them and keep them safe, as their parents entrust us to do.

Pinocchio repeatedly exclaimed, “I’m a real boy!” despite the exact opposite being true. Rather than deny our political affiliation, pretending those beliefs go away simply by entering a nonpartisan race, why don’t we be bold, exercising transparency and honesty?

I’ll go first. I’m Desiree’ Byrne, running for Peoria Unified school board. I’m a Christian Conservative committed to serving all kids with excellence. I’ll work hard to better student outcomes by increasing core subject proficiency. Statewide assessments show only 45% of students are proficient in English, 38% in math, and 29% in science. This must change. I’ll aim to restore parental trust and work to eliminate personal and political agendas from the classroom.