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Belleville Board swears in trustees and elects Steve Leon president, Dr. Liz Masia vice president
Summary
At its June 5 reorganization meeting the Belleville Board of Education swore in newly elected trustees and, by roll call, elected Steve Leon as board president and Dr. Liz Masia as vice president; Superintendent Dr. Alonso set an optimistic tone for the year.
Steve Leon was elected board president of the Belleville Board of Education at the district's June 5, 2026 reorganization meeting, after trustees nominated and approved his appointment by motion and roll call.
Christina Garrow, Yadira Munz and Kenya Santana were sworn in as trustees at the meeting. Congressman Tom Milinowski administered the oath to Christina Garrow; Mayor Michael Milham administered oaths to Yadira Munz and Kenya Santana.
"I am honored to accept the role of president of the Belleville Board of Education and to formally assume the chair for this reorganization meeting," Steve Leon said after taking the chair. "I take this responsibility seriously and [am] committed to serving with integrity, collaboration, and a strong focus on our students, staff, and community." (Steve Leon)
Dr. Liz Masia was nominated and elected vice president by the board in the same series of motions and roll call votes. The board took the votes after the nominations were opened, motions were made and the floor was closed by motion with seconds recorded.
Superintendent Dr. Alonso congratulated the newly elected leaders and trustees, welcomed families and staff back for the new year, and described an emphasis on collaboration and ‘‘continuous improvement in everything that we do with our students.’’ (Dr. Alonso)
The board read official election results earlier in the meeting: Christina Garrow 4,419 votes (20.8%); Yadira Munz 3,168 (15.62%); a candidate listed in the count as "Kenya Nicole Ara Aroyabi" 2,892 (14.26%); Anna Manilla 2,762 (13.62%); Nicole Kovella Datis 2,345 (11.56%); Gabrielle Bennett Meanie 2,327 (11.47%); Michael W.S. Sheldon 1,464 (7.22%); and Michael Elder 1,19 (5.47%). The board noted those official totals as part of the swearing-in sequence.
The meeting concluded with brief trustee remarks and thanks to supporters. The board adjourned and announced its next regular public meeting for Jan. 21, 2026 at Belleville High School.
