Washoe County School District trustee Verónica Frenkel announced Monday she won’t be seeking re-election this fall and is instead turning attention to her family and considering other ways to serve the community.
Frenkel, 55, represents District F, an at-large seat that encompasses the eastern half of Washoe County. She was elected in 2014, edging out former Washoe County Commissioner Jim Shaw by fewer than 200 votes.
“After much reflection and discussion with my family, I have concluded that I should return my attention to supporting the personal and economic well-being of my family and refocus my energy on other opportunities to authentically, meaningfully, and effectively contribute to my community,” Frenkel said in a statement.
Frenkel cited district accomplishments that included improving opportunities for career and technical education, increased standards for school safety, a more efficient budgeting process, and rising graduation rates.
In her capacity as trustee, Frenkel has served on the Regional Planning Governing Board, Debt Management Commission, and Governor’s Teachers and Leaders Council.
“I will, of course, continue to represent this community with dedication and intentionally and fervently advocate for students, teachers, and schools for the remainder of my term,” she said. “And I look forward to continuing to collaborate with the many dedicated individuals who selflessly endeavor to improve the quality of life for all families in the community that I call home.”
As Reno resident since 1997, Frenkel has a master of arts in government from the University of Texas, a masters in human resources from Webster University, and a certificate in social justice and diversity education from the University of Massachusetts. She owns Pathways Consulting LLC, a leadership, coaching, training, and consulting business.
Trustee John Mayer also announced last week that he would not seek re-election in 2018.
Candidate filing for the 2018 election is scheduled March 5-16, according to the Washoe County Registrar of Voters. The primary election is June 12, with early voting scheduled from May 26 through June 8. School trustee elections are nonpartisan.
