SHASTA COUNTY, California – In Shasta County, two candidates are vying for a Gateway Unified School District board member seat representing Area 3.

As of the afternoon of November 6, Unofficial Shasta County Results show Bobbie Simpson in the lead with more than 56% of the vote over incumbent Elias Haynes.

Simpson, a mother of two GUSD students, told Northstate’s News she hoped to explore more options for student learning.

“I have experience with the special education program. In particular, that’s a special interest of mine,” Simpson said. “Everyone learns a little differently. “People have different learning styles and I would like to see that addressed.”

Unofficial results follow recovery efforts against Haynes and his wife, Lindsi, who is also currently a board member. Withdrawal efforts occurred in 2023.

The school board responsibilities include offering support, as well as ensuring accountability.

Simpson said she would hope to learn more about how school programs work and how to promote representation.

“The last (GUSD board) meeting I attended was pretty normal. “It was very calm,” Simpson said before adding: “I hope it stays that way. My biggest problem is having a married couple on the board, which really seems like inadequate representation of the district.”

She went on to say, “Many parents of gay and trans children reached out to me and thanked me for speaking out, being visible, and advocating. So that really helped me get through this last year even though I had a lot of opposition.”

We have been in communication with Elias Haynes but have not yet received an official statement from him.

Since the results are not yet official, we will share updates when the Shasta County Registrar of Voters officially declares the winner.