Lam, Who Did Not Seek Reelection, Reflects On School Board Term

SAN MARINO, CA — School district Board Clerk Joanna Lam decided not to seek reelection, and shared thoughts on her four-year term that ends in December.

Lam, who joined the board in 2022, said she plans to devote more time to her family as her youngest children begin transitional kindergarten at Carver Elementary School.

Subscribe

"Serving on the Board for the past four years has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life," Lam said in a statement. "I am grateful for the opportunity to have served our students, families, teachers, staff, and community."

While on the board, Lam supported the district's Mandarin Dual Language Immersion program and the passage of Measure M, a $200 million school bond. She also served on the district's Safety and Wellness Committee and is serving as board clerk in her final year.

Lam said her time on the board deepened her understanding of the responsibilities involved in governing a public school district.

"There are many perspectives behind every decision, and not every question has a simple answer," she said. "Serving on the Board taught me a great deal about listening, working with others, and the responsibility that comes with making decisions that affect an entire school community."

Board President Francesca Gill thanked Lam for her service, citing her willingness to ask questions and consider different perspectives.

"Joanna has been a thoughtful and dedicated Board member, and I am deeply grateful for the time, care, and heart she has given to our schools," Gill said in a statement.

Superintendent Linda de la Torre also recognized Lam's contributions, describing her as a steadfast supporter of district students, programs and priorities.

"While we will miss her presence, I know her connection to our schools will continue," de la Torre said in a statement. "I look forward to seeing her at school events and continuing to be an active part of the San Marino school community.

Lam said she intends to remain involved in the school community and is open to future public service.

"Public service has become an incredibly meaningful part of my life, and I don't know what form that service may take in the future," she said. "For now, I look forward to focusing more fully on my family while remaining an active and engaged member of the school community."

More about the Board of Education is on the SMUSD website.

Three candidates ran unopposed this year. Shelley Ryan and C. Joseph Chang will continue serving, while parent and frequent community volunteer Marisa Kelly will begin her first board term in January.