Press Release: 12/1/09

Michael Soto Announces SBOE District 3 Candidacy

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
CONTACT: Michael Soto (cell: 210-685-8378; email: michael@michael-soto.org)

San Antonio – Public school parent and college professor Michael Soto today announced his candidacy for the Democratic Party nomination to represent Bexar County and deep South Texas on the State Board of Education in District 3. With his family at his side, Soto made the announcement before a crowd of supporters.

“I’m deeply troubled by the direction taken by the State Board in recent years, but I’m also quite optimistic about what’s possible in Texas public education,” said Soto. “There are exciting things going on at all levels of governance, and the State Board can and must be a part of this larger movement to transform public education. I envision a State Board that creates exciting opportunities for students and school districts and that restores public trust in how our schools are run.”

Joining Soto for his announcement were State Representative Trey Martinez Fischer; newly appointed Alamo Colleges Board Member Blakely Fernandez; and Soto’s campaign treasurer, Colleen Casey. The kick-off reception was hosted by Dr. Joe Bernal and Mary Esther Bernal, Charles Butt, Dr. Antonia Castañeda, Blakely Fernandez, Dr. Arturo Madrid, John Montford, Debra Salge, Susan Smith and Tommy Smith, and José Villarreal and Maria Villarreal.

Also on hand in the audience were current and former state and local officials, community leaders, and numerous public school parents and advocates.

“As a college professor, Michael has the right tools to get the job done, and get it done well,” stated Martinez Fischer. “And he’s got the right heart to put aside politics in favor of what’s in the best interests of Texas kids and schools.”

After attending public schools in Brownsville ISD throughout his childhood, Soto received a B.A. degree from Stanford University and a Ph.D. degree from Harvard University. He is presently associate professor of English and director of the McNair Scholars Program at Trinity University. He is married to Celina Peña and their son is a first grade student in San Antonio ISD.

The counties in SBOE District 3 are Atascosa, Bee, Bexar, Brooks, Duval, Frio, Hidalgo, Jim Wells, Karnes, Live Oak, McMullen, Medina, and Wilson.

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