Raymond Chavarria, program coordinator for the United Cambodian Community and local activist, today announced his intention to run for the Long Beach School Board in next year’s election. Chavarria will run for the Third District seat, currently held by controversial – and currently missing – board member Michael Ellis.

A press release today included this statement from Chavarria:

Today I am officially announcing my intention to seek election to the office of Long Beach School Board Member in April of 2010. If elected, I intend to represent the residents of District 3 and be their voice on the school board. I will be watching our State Budget and District Budget to assure in protecting teacher and employee’s job. I will fight in providing the best education to every student, keep class sizes reduces, and better prepare students for college for all students who choose to pursue it.

Ellis is eligible to run for his seat again but has not yet stated whether he will or not.