Here are the candidates running for Boise School District trustee
The Boise School District will have three school board seats up for election this year.
Two of the seats are uncontested. Krista Hasler and Alejandro Necochea, both of whom already serve on the board, are running for election for six-year terms.
The two candidates competing for the other seat, which is a four-year term, are Andy Hawes, a former trustee and the director of land, water and asset recovery for J.R. Simplot Company, and Kirt Naylor, a retired attorney. Nancy Gregory, who has served on the board since 2002, is not running for reelection.
Hawes was appointed to be a trustee in 2021 to fill a vacancy. He won his election in 2022. He resigned the following year due to “professional relocation.” He said since getting back to Boise, his desire to serve his community has “only grown stronger.”
“At a time when the district faces significant decisions regarding enrollment, facilities, staffing, and financial planning, I believe proven trustee experience matters because new trustees face a steep learning curve,” he wrote in a post on the district’s website.
His priorities include centering students, supporting neighborhood schools and ensuring transparency.
“Serving on the Boise School Board was one of the greatest honors of my life,” he wrote. “I am running because I believe deeply in public education, love this community, and believe my proven experience can help Boise schools successfully navigate challenges ahead while providing exceptional opportunities for every student.”
Naylor said he is hoping to bring thoughtful decision-making and a commitment to students to the role.
“No noise, no extremes — just a commitment to students, families, and a stronger future,” he wrote in a post on his website.
Naylor previously served as an attorney and worked with school districts, colleges and universities on issues including education law and civil rights. He also worked as an Ada County deputy prosecuting attorney, and established and managed a local law firm. In the past, he has served as a PTA president and a court-appointed special advocate.
His campaign is focused on strengthening partnership, maintaining safe learning environments and making sure the district uses taxpayer money responsibly.
“I’m running because I care deeply about Boise’s future. Our schools should continue to be a source of pride for our community, and I believe steady, experienced leadership can help us meet both today’s challenges and tomorrow’s opportunities,” he wrote.
Candidates had to submit declaration of candidacy forms by the end of June.
When is the election?
Unlike other school districts, the Boise School District holds its trustee elections in even-numbered years on the first Tuesday of September, Sept. 1 this year, as dictated by the district’s charter.
Boise trustees are elected to six-year terms in most cases. If someone resigns from their position, the board appoints someone to serve in that position until the next election. Then, that person can run for reelection to serve the remainder of the term.
People can vote early at the district services center between Aug. 17 and Aug. 28. Here is a list of the polling locations.
Trustees will be sworn in on Sept. 14.
