Caprice Edmond secures wave of endorsements in Pinellas School Board race

Pinellas County School Board member Caprice Edmond’s re-election campaign is gaining support from labor groups, progressive organizations and high-profile elected officials.

Edmond announced that her campaign has secured endorsements from the Sun Coast Police Benevolent Association, Service Employees International Union (SEIU), the St. Petersburg Association of Firefighters (IAFF 747), Ruth’s List Florida, Equality Florida PAC and Florida NOW. U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor and former School Board members Nicole Carr and Linda Lerner are also endorsing Edmond.

IAFF 747 President Richard Pauley praised Edmond’s record in office, saying she has “honorably served the students and citizens of Pinellas County.”

“The men and women in the Fire and Emergency Medical Services, who have made the protection of life and property their life’s work, believe you will continue to ensure that the students in Pinellas County Public Schools receive the best education possible,” Pauley said. “Your energy and drive to do the hard work required to make sure every child has the best opportunity to be successful shine for everyone to see.”

Castor praised Edmond’s focus on access and equity in public education.

“You have demonstrated a commitment to the students, parents, and teachers in Pinellas County by ensuring that every neighbor in every neighborhood has access to the opportunities needed to succeed,” Castor said. “I look forward to continuing to work with you on the high quality public schools, good teachers, sustainability and resilience, and accessible health care for our most vulnerable constituents.”

Edmond, first elected in 2020, said the endorsements reflect confidence in her record on the School Board.

“It’s truly an honor to serve. I’m appreciative of the support our campaign has received and look forward to continuing to advocate for children and public education,” Edmond said. “The support for our campaign sends a clear message that my work on the School Board has been recognized and has made a difference. There’s more that can be done to support the success of each student and school district.”

Edmond’s campaign has met the petition requirement for qualifying and raised over $50,000 — including just over $8,600 raised during Q1 this year. She is currently facing a challenge from Jase Naranjo, who filed in February and has not yet filed a campaign finance report as of Friday morning.

Edmond is a parent and has worked for more than a decade in education advocacy. She has earned advanced Board Member and Educator certifications, and she holds master’s degrees in elementary education and in educational leadership.