School districts approve overrides, name new boards

With the exception of Sahuarita Unified School District, all appear to have been successful, with about two-thirds of the votes counted.

Many of the districts also elected new school boards.

Amphitheater voters re-elected Jo Grant to one board seat, but the race between Scott Leska and Mick Stewart for the second seat was too close to call.

Voters also approved a 10 percent budget override, with 58 percent favorable. The override will be used to maintain and lower core subject class sizes; provide elementary art, music and physical education; offer advanced learning programs and other efforts.

Marana voters approved a $125 million school improvement bond for school and athletic facility renovations and improvements, new school construction, instructional technology and student transportation, with 58 percent of the approval.

Sahuarita’s efforts to renew a 14 percent operating override appeared to be unsuccessful, as was its attempt at a 10 percent district assistance override.

In the district’s governing board election, incumbent Tom Murphy retained his seat. John Sparks was poised to take the second seat, ousting incumbent David Eves, but had Noah Sundberg close on his heels.

Tanque Verde voters said yes to continuing a 15 percent override, funding primarily teacher salaries, maintaining class sizes, supporting educational programs and continuing student support services.

Vail approved a $28.7 million school improvement bond with nearly 61 percent of the vote to purchase or lease school lots, renovate sites, supply schools with furniture, equipment and technology, improve school grounds and purchase buses.

Incumbent Claudia Anderson took one of two board seats with 39 percent of the votes. Jon Aitken and Anthony Sizer were running a close race for the second seat, separated by about 300 votes late Tuesday.

Sunnyside had three candidates vying for two board seats. The winners were incumbents Eva Carrillo Dong and Daniel Hernandez Jr.