TIFFANY BENSON: Arizona School Board Members Who Fail to Serve the Public

By Tiffany Benson |

American Patriots uphold the First Amendment, valuing freedom of speech for all individuals, regardless of their beliefs. Among them, some express concern over recent actions by the Chandler Unified School District (CUSD) leadership.

On April 17, 2025, AZ Free News reported that CUSD board president Patti Serrano declined to recite the Pledge of Allegiance during a school board meeting. Video evidence shows Serrano standing with her hand over her heart but refusing to speak. This incident has reportedly become a recurring theme for Serrano, raising eyebrows among residents.

Supporters of AZ Free News claim that Serrano’s choice aligns with her progressive stance on various issues, including abortion and gun control. It was also noted that she took her oath of office with her hand on the book “Life is a Banquet,” deviating from the traditional Bible. This raises pertinent questions regarding her commitment to upholding U.S. values and the implications for CUSD families.

Similarly, the Phoenix Elementary School District (PESD) has faced scrutiny. Alicia Vink, a current board member, has stirred controversy by publicly rejecting the Pledge of Allegiance as a statement against an educational system she claims is unjust. Vink’s stance reflects a broader agenda tied to diversity, equity, and inclusion, but critics argue it undermines the institution.

The Washington Elementary School District (WESD) has also made headlines for its recent decisions. In 2023, the governing board voted to end a student-teaching partnership with Arizona Christian University. Board member Tamillia Valenzuela highlighted concerns that the university’s beliefs could alienate some students. This action has drawn criticism regarding potential bias against traditional values.

Some community members question the implications of such decisions and the overall direction of Arizona’s public education system. The upcoming electoral opportunities in 2026 may provide a chance for residents to influence their local school boards. Parents and voters are urged to engage actively to ensure their values are represented, as complacency may lead to further divides in educational leadership.

Concerns about the current state of educational governance in Arizona are evident. As 2026 approaches, the question remains: will residents take decisive action to restore their principles in local education? The stakes for future generations are high.

Tiffany Benson is the Founder of Restore Parental Rights in Education. Her views on education and community engagement can be found at Parentspayattention.com and Bigviewsmallwindow.com.