The ultra-conservative hardline direction of the Republican-led Pennridge school board came to a screeching halt on Tuesday when voters elected the Democratic slate, Pennridge Community Alliance, to fill five seats and become the board majority.
Since first taking the reins in 2021, the Republicans and their Moms For Liberty supporters have left a trail of wreckage in their wake. Drastic policy changes, the removal of pride flags, and the banning of books were not popular and the discontent was clearly reflected in the election results.
“It’s an amazing day in Pennridge. Our community showed up to fight for our students. Our votes showed that we will not accept extremism in our schools and regardless of political affiliation the poor practices of our board are not to be tolerated,” said Laura Foster, a co-founder of RIDGE Network.
She said there is still work to be done to create an inclusive environment for every student in the district regardless of race, religion or sexual orientation.
The hiring of out-of-state “curriculum consultant” Jordan Adams, aka Vermilion, his open ended contract and the implementation of Hillsdale 1776 Curriculum, clinched the deal giving Democrats the win and power to change the school district’s trajectory.
“I’m thrilled that the Pennridge community took a stand against extremism and for inclusive education,” said Jane Cramer, a parent in the district. Cramer was instrumental in raising awareness of the dangerous path the Republican school board was taking at rallies and on TikTok.
Here’s a quick look at the numbers from the 2023 primary and general elections in a district where there are 18,000 registered Republicans and 12,000 Democrats.
Democrats out performed Republicans in the May Primary. While all Democrats cross-filed, Republican Bob Sellers was the only candidate from the Protect Pennridge 2023 slate to do so. Incumbent Dave Reiss did not win his primary race.
In Tuesday’s General election, more people voted, but the sentiment didn’t change. Both Democrats and Republicans voted for a new, more moderate direction for the school board.
Data provided by Bucks County Board of Elections.
