Shelli Boggs Secures Crucial Endorsement in Race for Maricopa County School Superintendent

By Daniel Stefanski |

Maricopa County School Superintendent candidate Shelli Boggs has secured a significant endorsement just before the General Election in November. Last month, Riley Gaines publicly backed Boggs, highlighting her commitment to education and student empowerment.

In her endorsement, Gaines emphasized, “My advocacy has brought me to Arizona multiple times and I have gotten to really know Shelli Boggs. She is genuine. Kids and education are her passion.” She further asserted her confidence that Boggs prioritizes students’ academic needs: “That is why I fully endorse Shelli Boggs for Maricopa County School Superintendent.”

Gaines is known nationally for defending women’s sports against the participation of biological males. As a twelve-time NCAA All-American Swimmer and Ambassador for the Independent Women’s Voice, she has become a prominent voice in this debate.

In return, Boggs expressed her gratitude for the endorsement, stating, “I am honored to have Riley Gaines’ endorsement! Riley has been a strong advocate for protecting girls’ sports and ensuring fairness for female athletes.” She reiterated her mission to uphold educational integrity and broaden opportunities for all students in Maricopa County schools.

On her campaign website, Boggs presents herself as an Arizona mother and education leader, motivated to enter politics due to concerns over declining educational quality. Her political journey began with her election to the Governing Board of the East Valley Institute of Technology (EVIT) in 2018, where she served as Vice President and President. Under her leadership, she claims to have doubled enrollment and reduced administrative costs while prioritizing student success without raising taxes.

As the Republican nominee, Boggs is committed to ensuring a high-quality education for Maricopa County’s schoolchildren. Her platform includes removing politics from classrooms, enhancing parental rights, restoring fiscal accountability, and supporting effective teachers. She also advocates for protecting the integrity of girls’ sports, asserting that she will always oppose allowing biological males to compete against female athletes.

Boggs will face Democratic opponent Dr. Laura Metcalfe, an EVIT School Board Member, who has garnered several endorsements, including those from Arizona List and Save Our Schools Arizona. The winner will take over the position from outgoing Superintendent Steve Watson, also a Republican.

Daniel Stefanski is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.