Salem-Keizer Public Schools
Salem-Keizer Board of Directors Elects New Board Leadership
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During their regularly scheduled meeting on July 14, 2026, the Salem-Keizer Public Schools Board of Directors elected new board leadership for the 2026-27 school year. Lisa Harnisch was elected as the board chairperson. Cynthia Richardson was elected the first vice chairperson. Karina Guzmán Ortiz was reelected as the second vice chairperson.
“I am delighted and honored to be in this role. I have big shoes to fill - thank you, Director Richardson. I am looking forward to this next year as we embark upon our work together as a unified board.”
School Board Chair Harnisch
Director Harnish represents Zone 1 and was appointed to the school board in 2024. Director Richardson represents Zone 2 and was elected to the school board in 2023. Director Guzmán Ortiz represents Zone 5 and was elected to the school board in 2021 and 2025.
Student advisors
In addition to school board directors, the 2026-27 student advisors to the school board were sworn in for their year of service during the school board’s June 9 business meeting. Both Salem-Keizer students Jolee McMahan and Alex Diaz will serve on the board in a non-voting, advisory capacity through June 2027.
Jolee McMahan, South Salem High School
Jolee is currently a rising senior at South Salem High School and has attended Salem-Keizer schools for eight years. Through the application process, Jolee shared that she cares deeply about the Salem-Keizer school community and wants to ensure students have a voice on issues that are important and impactful to students.
Alexsander Arredondo Diaz, McKay High School
Alex is currently a rising junior at McKay High School and has attended Salem-Keizer schools for the past 12 years. Through the application process, Alex shared that he will prioritize the voice of students, especially for those who may not feel comfortable sharing their ideas. He believes students should have a say in decisions that affect their education.
Learn more about our Salem-Keizer School Board of Directors on our school board webpage.