Alum Rock Union School District Shifts to Trustee-Area Voting

0:00It's April 18th. Welcome in. This is California News today, where local news meets AI. I'm Cory with a story. The Olam Rock Union School District in East San Jose is overhauling its board elections. They're ditching the at-large system, where every voter picks all five members for trustee area voting. That means splitting the district into five zones, with residents in each area electing their own local rep for more targeted school decisions. Here this week, the board laid out the timeline, starting public hearings on draft maps. Final boundaries come up for approval. May 20th, rolling out before the November 3rd election. That's when three seats are on the line for board President Linda Chavez, Vice President Andres Cantero, and Trustee Menfam. Community reactions split the room at the meeting. Parents and locals dig the idea of stronger neighborhood voices, but flagged issues like trustees influencing map lines and bad timing amid field. Parents, graduations, and busy family schedules.

1:01Trustee FAM explained they're jumping ahead to sidestep lawsuits under the California Voting Rights Act. Every trial so far has pushed districts like this into area-based elections, and he urged folks to voice legal or tech concerns now. Hearings continue April 21st, April 30th, May 11th, and May 20th. As these maps take shape, expect neighborhoods to push for fair lines that truly reflect East San Jose's vibe.