The board interviewed three candidates and voted unanimously for Zavala-Ortega to fill the vacant seat left by board director Camara Banfield
Sandra Zavala-Ortega has been appointed to fill the vacant position on the Vancouver Public Schools Board of Directors. The board interviewed three candidates and voted unanimously for Zavala-Ortega to fill the vacant seat left by board director Camara Banfield, who resigned in January following her appointment to the Clark County Superior Court.
![Sandra Zavala-Ortega](https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Clark-County-Today-Zavala-Ortega-45.jpg)
“We are happy to welcome Sandra to the board of directors. Her personal and professional experience as well as her deep connection with VPS will bring a valued perspective to our board,” said Board President Kyle Sproul. “We also want to thank the other candidates. It’s impressive to live in a community of people that cares so deeply for their children and youth.”
Zavala-Ortega has served in several capacities as a representative of the local Latino community to improve cultural diversity and increase opportunities for people of color. She grew up in Vancouver and attended VPS schools. As a college student, she worked in the Intercultural Diversity office where she had opportunities to influence student and college programs.
Zavala-Ortega also was previously employed by the district as a Family-Community Resource Center coordinator at Harney Elementary School. She is currently pursuing her master’s degree at Washington State University Vancouver. Zavala-Ortega has a son who attends school in VPS.
Zavala-Ortega will be sworn in at the April 13 board meeting. The appointment will be temporary until the November 2021 general election, when a permanent board member will be elected to the position.
Information provided by Vancouver Public Schools.