Teacher’s union ad campaign calls out school board president

By Ian Whitaker

Thursday, May 5, 2016 | 4:35 p.m.

The Clark County teacher's union has taken aim at school board president Linda Young in a campaign ad released today.

In the ad, called "SOS," the Clark County Education Association criticized Young on what they say is a failure to do enough to address concerns like the ongoing teacher shortage and low teacher pay.

"SOS, president Young, our schools are failing," a voiceover says. "And what do we get back? SOS. Same old story."

The ad ends with the words, "Linda Young. One excuse after another."

As of Thursday afternoon, Young could not be reached for comment.

The ad comes days after the union endorsed Adam Johnson, a managing director for Teach for America, in the race for Young's District C seat. They also endorsed Mallory Levins, an educator and higher education administrator, over District A incumbent Deanna Wright.

With the backing of the union, they are shaping up to be the key races in this year's school board elections.

John Vellardita, executive director of the CCEA, said the union is unhappy with the "status quo." Young has served on the board since 2008.

"We're looking for a change," he said. "We think it's time for fresh leadership."

School board members, including Young, came under heavy fire last year when teachers, backed by the union, packed school board meetings demanding a salary increase. They got that increase earlier this year, but many teachers felt board members did little to support their cause.

The ad is only the first in an upcoming series. Vellardita said the union would weigh in on the other two races later this year.