After 10 years as trustee with the Fresno Unified school board, Dr. Tony Vang has called it quits. Vang announced his retirement in a press release. It reads in part, "Growing responsibilities as a faculty member at California State University, Fresno and the increasing needs of my family require ever more of my time."
His sudden resignation comes after reports that he doesn't live in the Mclane High school district. Critics say Vang bought a home in the Clovis Unified school district and voted there, while continuing to serve on Fresno Unified's school board. The state had been evaluating those complaints to determine whether he violated the elections code. The controversy even launched a recall campaign of Vang, last month. Several members of the Fresno Teachers Association took part in that campaign.
“In light of him resigning, we are very happy that he has chosen to do the right thing for the students and community of which he was supposed to be the trustee board member for,” said Eva Ruiz with Fresno Teacher Association.
Vang's term was up in 2014. He has repeatedly denied claims of any wrongdoing. Several months ago, Vang stepped down as board president and was replaced by Valerie Davis. But that wasn't enough for critics.
“We were hopeful that he would have done this earlier but he didn't, he waited until now which is a little suspicious of why he did this now and not earlier,” said Ruiz.
Vang expressed in his statement that his decision wasn't an easy one. He said he's proud of what the board has accomplished during his tenure.
Davis and the Fresno School District released statements shortly after Vang's announcement. They say they “plan to work swiftly and deliberately to fill the open seat in the weeks ahead.”
Vang’s resignation is effective immediately.
TXT 24
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