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New Haven Board re-elects Orlando Yarbrough as president; Wilcox and Joiner selected for vice chair and secretary

New Haven Board of Education · January 13, 2026

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Summary

At its regular meeting, the New Haven Board of Education unanimously re-elected Dr. Orlando Yarbrough as president and chose Matthew Wilcox as vice chair and Dr. Joiner as secretary; members said continuity will help advance negotiations and district priorities.

The New Haven Board of Education unanimously re-elected Dr. Orlando Yarbrough as board president and selected Matthew Wilcox as vice chair and Dr. Joiner as secretary during its regular meeting. Nominations began after the mayor opened the floor and the board confirmed a full quorum.

Matthew Wilcox nominated Yarbrough for president, and Miss Downer seconded the nomination. Several board members praised Yarbrough’s leadership. "I would just like to thank doctor Yarbrough for his service as president," said Mister Horace. After discussion, the board voted by voice; President Yarbrough's re-election carried unanimously.

Wilcox was nominated for vice chair by Doctor Joiner and seconded by Doctor Yarbrough. Supporters highlighted Wilcox’s committee work and financial expertise: "He might just be the best finance policymaker that I've ever met," Doctor Joiner said. The board approved the nomination by unanimous voice vote.

Doctor Yarbrough nominated Doctor Joiner for secretary, seconded by Miss Downer. Board members emphasized Joiner’s experience in education and historical perspective; Doctor Benitez said Joiner brings both "knowledge and experience and wisdom" that strengthen the district. The board voted unanimously to elect him secretary.

The newly elected leadership immediately discussed a minor agenda modification. President Yarbrough moved to add approvals of two collective bargaining agreements after the executive session, a motion the board carried without objection.

The elections set leadership for the upcoming two-year cycle and occurred before the board took up finance, personnel and bargaining items later in the meeting.