Leah Gardner won the race for school board member for District 196 in Tuesday’s special election, Nov. 5, 2024. Gardner had 56% of the vote while her opponent, Melissa Field, received 43% with all 60 precincts reporting. Leah Gardner. (Courtesy of the candidate) Gardner was selected to fill former School Board member Bianca Virnig’s vacancy after she resigned in February due to being elected in the state Legislature. Gardner has served on the board since March. In her campaign, Gardner said she prioritizes “creating a nurturing school environment that supports the needs of students,” closing the achievement gap and ensuring students receive help to meet their basic needs, she told the Pioneer Press. “In my short time on the school board, I’ve heard many valid questions from parents and ideas for improvement from students,” Gardner said to the Pioneer Press. “I am committed to exploring ways to increase opportunities for two-way conversation, including student representation on the school board.” Other issues she plans to address are that of encouraging a “well-rounded education,” which includes an “honest, accurate and age-appropriate understanding of history” and “equity for all,” aimed at reducing the achievement gap. For more results from the Nov. 5, 2024, election go to twincities.com/news/politics/elections. To find out what else was on your ballot and other election information, visit the Minnesota Secretary of State’s elections page at sos.state.mn.us/elections-voting. Related Articles Elections | DFL holds on to Minnesota Senate, counts in House races continue late Tuesday Elections | Dakota County school levies: Burnsville, Inver Grove Heights pass while Lakeville, Farmington rejected Elections | Burnsville-Eagan-Savage school board election: Rachael Mikkelsen, Annemarie Anderson and Anna Werb elected Elections | St. Paul voters decide on ballot questions on childcare subsidies, even-year elections Elections | Yes votes lead on ballot measure extending Minnesota lottery funding for natural resources, environment