Board Reelects Leadership, Aligns Pay With State Law

Oakland's school board kicked off 2026 by keeping its leadership team intact—but close votes on president and vice president revealed a board still feeling its way through factional divides, even as members pledged collaboration ahead of a high-stakes superintendent search.

• Jennifer Brouhard reelected board president in a 4–3 vote, edging out Director Mike Hutchinson.

• Valarie Bachelor elected vice president, 5–2, after emphasizing shared governance and student-centered decision-making.

• Board compensation aligned with state law under AB 1390, with members given the option to donate increases.

• Committee chairs confirmed: Hutchinson leads the Charter Committee; VanCedric Williams chairs Teaching & Learning.

• Public commenter raises compliance concerns about volunteer background checks, facilities safety, and hazardous materials.

The board's annual leadership election produced a narrow victory for incumbent President Jennifer Brouhard, who defeated Director Mike Hutchinson 4–3. The result underscored lingering divisions on a board that has weathered years of budget crises, school closures, and state oversight.