Jefferson Union board appoints Lasandra Gutter to provisional trustee seat

The Jefferson Union High School District board provisionally appointed Lasandra Gutter to its vacant trustee seat after public interviews and a paper‑ballot vote during the March meeting.

Gutter, who has worked for years in juvenile services and community programs, was selected after trustees each wrote their top two choices; a majority named Gutter as their first choice. President Walker then called for a motion; the board voted by roll call and the motion passed. Trustees who voiced their aye during the roll call included Trustee Jerome Gallegos, Steve Lee, Vice President Hadda and President Walker.

Why it matters: The provisional appointment fills a board vacancy left when Trustee Cho announced his intent to resign; the appointee will serve until voters elect someone in November to complete the remaining two years of the term. The board used a public, documented process: the seat was posted, applicants were vetted, four finalists were interviewed publicly, and trustees cast written preferences before the selection.

During the meeting, multiple public speakers urged the board to select Gutter. Dr. Lauren Sneed, who spoke during public comment, said Gutter “represents the kind of leadership our schools and community truly benefit from,” citing Gutter’s history of service and work with students.

Gutter addressed the board during her interview and at her swearing in. After the appointment, she repeated the loyalty oath and assumed the trustee seat that evening.

What’s next: The appointment is effective immediately; the district said the seat will next be on the ballot in November, when voters will elect who will complete the remaining term. Trustees and staff said they will continue outreach to the community as the new trustee settles into the role.