Trustees honor victims Yaron Leshinski and Sarah Lynn Milgram after DC attack

In a somber yet resolute meeting of the Orange County Board of Education, members gathered to address pressing issues, including a moment of silence for two young lives tragically lost to an act of hate. The meeting, held on June 3, 2025, began with procedural motions, including the removal of agenda items related to Compass Charter School, which had withdrawn its submission.

As the meeting progressed, Trustee Barkey and Trustee Valdez introduced a poignant moment of silence in memory of Yaron Leshinski and Sarah Lynn Milgram, who were killed in a shooting incident at the Capitol Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C. The attack, described as an act of terrorism fueled by hate, has drawn national attention and condemnation. The assailant, identified as Rodriguez, reportedly expressed his motivations linked to political tensions, chanting phrases that reflect deep-seated animosities.

Yaron, 30, originally from Germany, had recently proposed to Sarah, 26, an American from Kansas. Both were dedicated to fostering understanding and dialogue between cultures, with Sarah working as a public diplomat at the Jewish Embassy and Yaron advocating for interfaith relations. Their untimely deaths have sparked a wave of grief and solidarity within the community, as board members expressed their commitment to standing against hate and supporting the Jewish community.

Trustee Barkey emphasized the importance of truth and unity, stating, "We protect the truth and we protect people of all religious faiths." The board's collective mourning reflects a broader societal call to confront hate and violence, reinforcing the values of compassion and understanding that underpin the community.

As the meeting concluded, the board reaffirmed its dedication to fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all, leaving attendees with a sense of hope amidst the sorrow. The tragic loss of Yaron and Sarah serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by communities in the pursuit of peace and understanding.