Sarasota School Board swears in newly elected members

Prior to the school board meeting on Nov. 19, new board member Liz Barker, and returning member Tom Edwards were sworn in. 

Barker, a former school psychologist and current PTO member, represents District 2, while Tom Edwards, a business entrepreneur, represents District 3. 

The swearing-in of the new board members was accompanied by a reorganizational meeting, which saw the positions of chair and vice chair selected. 

Board member Bridget Ziegler nominated Tim Enos for chair, with the board unanimously voting in approval. Barker nominated Edwards for vice chair, while Ziegler nominated Robyn Marinelli, with Marinelli being selected at 3-1.

The two newly sworn-in members represent a change in the ideological makeup of the board, with Barker and Edwards being more liberal than the board's conservative majority of Bridget Ziegler, Robyn Marinelli and Tim Enos.

"It is a privilege to serve and to contribute to the important work we do together to shape the future of our schools," Barker said. "As I take on this responsibility, I'm mindful of the commitment that we all share to ensure that every student receives the best possible education, one that equips them with the skills, knowledge and values to thrive in an ever-changing world, whether we're discussing academic excellence, student well being, or creating a safe and inclusive environment for learning."

She said she was eager to work together with board members and the community. 

"It's about the collective strength of our community. We all have a stake in our students' success, and the best solutions will always come when we listen to one another, share ideas openly and work together with mutual respect. In that spirit, I want you to know that my door is open. We don't have to agree, to have a conversation."

"I'm honored that the county of Sarasota sent me back to continue the work that I started," Edwards said. "Many of you know that I've been saying since I've been a school board member, that every student should graduate with a plan. They should be enrolled, enlisted or employed."

He also noted the overwhelming passing of the district's property tax referendum.

"The good news for me about that is that we really care, in spite of all of our difference, we really care about our next generation and our students, and we want the very, very best for them."

He said his priorities would be academics and critical thinking.

"You cannot have critical thinking without controversy, without the arts, without sports and without high quality leadership and academic instruction. And we have that in here, here in Sarasota, congratulations, Sarasota County," he said.