Why Sarasota’s August 18th School Board Election Could Shape the Future of Our Schools
The rise of Moms for Liberty is tied to Florida—and to Sarasota in particular—where local school board politics became a focal point for broader national debates over education.
Founded in 2021 by activists including Sarasota County School Board Member, Bridget Ziegler, the organization grew out of disputes over COVID-era school policies and quickly evolved into a national movement centered on “parental rights” and influence in public education.
Sarasota became one of the movement’s most visible proving grounds. School board meetings drew increased attention, and elections that were once relatively quiet became deeply contested. Issues such as curriculum transparency, school funding, student and parental rights, book bans, and the role of school vouchers concerning public versus private education became defining questions for voters.
Within this environment, a new group of 2026 candidates—Jimmy Glover, Beth Mayberry and Megan Tennimon—has emerged, each bringing different experiences but sharing a focus on the future of Sarasota’s public schools.
Jimmy Glover | District 1
Jimmy Glover has gained attention for his direct communication style and active participation in school board discussions. He is a father of four and a community leader in Sarasota. Observers have noted his ability to speak candidly about issues facing the district and to respond thoughtfully in public forums. Glover has built support among voters looking for leadership that is engaged, responsive, and willing to challenge existing approaches when necessary.
Beth Mayberry | District 5
Beth Mayberry, a North Port-based candidate, has emphasized community representation and engagement. A mother and grandmother, as well as a retired professional, she has positioned herself as someone who understands both the long-term needs of families and the importance of restoring trust between the school board and the public. She also has an extensive business background and is a certified financial planner. At public meetings, she has stressed that the board cannot operate in isolation and must actively seek input from parents, teachers, and community stakeholders.
Megan Tennimon | District 3
Megan Tennimon, a former teacher, and parent of children in Sarasota schools, brings an education-focused perspective shaped by firsthand experience in the classroom. She has emphasized the importance of supporting teachers, maintaining strong academic programs, and ensuring that public schools remain competitive amid the expansion of voucher systems and alternative education options. Tennimon has also highlighted the wide range of academic and extracurricular programs already available in Sarasota schools, arguing that better communication and community awareness can help strengthen enrollment and support.
Together, these candidates represent a broader shift in local civic engagement. School board races are no longer low-visibility contests; instead, they reflect visions for how education should function in a rapidly changing social environment.
The critical nature of the August 18th election lies in selecting candidates to be our School Board Members who will focus on preserving and strengthening public education systems, supporting teachers, and ensuring that schools remain inclusive and academically rigorous.
The candidacies of Mayberry, Glover, and Tennimon illustrate how individuals with different backgrounds—community advocates, engaged citizens, and education professionals—are stepping forward to shape that future.
Their campaigns highlight key concerns shared by many voters: rebuilding trust; improving communication; addressing funding challenges; and ensuring that students are prepared for life beyond graduation.