David Li Appointed as Area III Trustee
David Li, a Policy Fellow at the Alameda County Office of Education, has been appointed as the new Trustee for Area III by the Redwood City School District (RCSD) Board of Trustees during their October 9 meeting.
Li’s appointment followed a competitive selection process that initially drew 15 applicants. After three were disqualified for not meeting residency requirements, two withdrew, and eight candidates ended up presenting to the Board. Li’s compelling presentation, showcasing his deep commitment to public education, led to his selection. His appointment fills the Area III vacancy, ensuring continued representation after no candidates filed during the election period. Trustee Area III includes Adelante Selby Spanish Immersion School, Henry Ford School, and Kennedy Middle School, as well as portions of the attendance zones for Garfield, Henry Ford, Hoover, and Roosevelt schools.
This fall, three seats on the RCSD Board of Trustees were up for election: Trustee Areas I, III, and IV. While Trustee Mike Wells is the incumbent in Area IV and Jennifer Ng Kwing King is running in Area I, no candidates filed for Trustee Area III by the filing deadline, prompting the Board to initiate the appointment process to maintain representation for the district.
Li brings a wealth of experience in education and governance. He previously served on the board of a public charter school in Brooklyn from 2017 to 2020 and has advised governing boards throughout his career as a lawyer and consultant.
David Li, Newly Appointed Area III Trustee
“I’m a lifelong supporter of public education,” Li stated in his application.
“Public schools can and should be used as a tool to achieve greater societal equity."
He emphasized the importance of providing all children access to safe, high-quality learning environments that foster both career readiness and civic engagement.
Board President Janet Lawson expressed confidence in Li’s ability to guide the district. “David’s experience, not just in education, but also in governance and strategy, makes him uniquely qualified to serve our district. His commitment to equity and his understanding of the complexities of public education will undoubtedly benefit our students and community.”
Li, grateful for the opportunity to serve, reaffirmed his dedication to RCSD's mission: “Now that I’ve made Redwood City my long-term home, I’m committed to serving RCSD in whatever capacity I can."
David Li will take the oath of office and assume his duties as a Board member on December 17, 2024. His term lasts four years meaning the Area III seat will be up for election in 2028.