Broward County School Board unanimously elects Sarah Leonardi as chair and Dr Jeff Holness as vice chair for the upcoming term

Broward County, Florida – The Broward County School Board has appointed new leadership, with Sarah Leonardi of District 3 unanimously elected as Chair and Dr. Jeff Holness of District 5 chosen as Vice Chair during the Board’s annual Organizational Meeting on Tuesday, November 18, 2025.

Leonardi, who previously served as Vice Chair, now assumes the top leadership role on the Board. Both she and Holness were first elected to the School Board in 2022, bringing fresh perspectives and a commitment to advancing educational excellence across the county.

“I am honored to serve as Chair of the Broward County School Board and look forward to working with my colleagues to support our students, educators, and communities,” Leonardi said. Her election marks a continuation of her engagement with Board priorities and initiatives, building on the experience she gained as Vice Chair.

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Dr. Holness, now serving as Vice Chair, expressed similar enthusiasm for the work ahead. “This is a team effort, and I am committed to helping ensure that Broward County Public Schools remain a place where every student has the opportunity to succeed,” he said.

The Broward County School Board currently includes a diverse group of members representing specific districts and at-large seats. Serving alongside Leonardi and Holness are Lori Alhadeff (District 4), Maura McCarthy Bulman (District 1), Adam Cervera (District 6), Debra Hixon (Countywide At-Large, Seat 9), Nora Rupert (District 7), Rebecca Thompson (District 2), and Dr. Allen Zeman (Countywide At-Large, Seat 8). Together, the Board is tasked with shaping policy, guiding the district’s budget, and ensuring that students receive high-quality education.

The Board’s election of new leadership comes at a time when Broward County Public Schools continues to focus on student success, equity, and academic achievement. Both Leonardi and Holness have emphasized collaboration, community engagement, and maintaining high standards for instruction across the district’s schools.

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For those interested in learning more about the Broward County School Board and its ongoing initiatives, information is available at browardschools.com/schoolboard.

With this new leadership team in place, the School Board aims to build on past accomplishments and navigate the challenges ahead, ensuring that every student in Broward County has access to educational opportunities that prepare them for success.