Sarah James wins school district 5 seat

Dr. Sarah James

Sarah James won the district 5 seat on the Marion County School Board, defeating Taylor Smith, according to unofficial totals posted to the Marion County Supervisor of Elections website Tuesday evening, August 23.

 James received 44,642 votes, or 64.96% of the total.

Smith received 24,077 votes, or 35.04% of the total.

James has previously worked as a teacher and in school administration and holds a Master’s in Education and doctorate in Educational Leadership.

Smith, 24, was the youngest candidate participating in local elections this year.

The job pays $39,732 plus benefits and has a recently imposed twelve-year term limit.

James raised $28,464 in cash contributions and expended $28,446.43, according to the last campaign records filed.

Smith raised $15,422.80 and expended $15,244.43.