For most candidates, a teachers union endorsement is a nice feather in the cap. For Nancy Velardi, it’s a homecoming.
The Pinellas Classroom Teachers Association (PCTA) and the Pinellas Educational Support Professionals Association (PESPA) — which together represent thousands of Pinellas County teachers, paraprofessionals, bus drivers and other school employees — are endorsing Velardi for Pinellas County School Board, District 2.
Velardi served as PCTA President before launching her campaign, leading the union through the COVID pandemic and its aftermath.
“I am deeply honored to have the support of the educators and education professionals who dedicate their lives to our students every day,” Velardi said.
“Having served as PCTA President, I know the incredible commitment of the teachers, paraprofessionals, clerical staff, bus drivers, food service workers, and so many others who make our schools successful. Together, we share a commitment to putting students first, supporting those who work in our schools, and ensuring every child has access to a high-quality public education.”
Velardi, a retired English teacher, spent more than 20 years in the classroom at Pinellas Park High School. PCTA President Tracey McConnell said that résumé makes her uniquely qualified for the board.
“Nancy Velardi has spent her career advocating for students, standing up for educators, and strengthening public education. She understands our classrooms because she’s been in them, and she understands the challenges facing our schools because she’s lived them,” McConnell said.
“We are proud to endorse Nancy because we know she will bring experience, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to putting students, educators, and public schools first.”
PESPA President Scott Barnum leads the support professionals union joining the endorsement.
Velardi is challenging incumbent Lisa Cane, who was first elected in 2018 and is seeking a third term. District 2 is an at-large seat, meaning voters countywide will weigh in. And because only Cane and Velardi qualified, the nonpartisan contest will be decided outright in the Aug. 18 Primary.
The union nod adds to a growing endorsement list for the challenger. Velardi has already picked up support from Ruth’s List Florida, along with St. Petersburg City Council Vice Chair Richie Floyd and former School Board Members Linda Lerner and Terry Krassner.
Velardi’s campaign is centered on strengthening public education, supporting and retaining teachers, improving student achievement and building partnerships with parents.
She spent two decades grading Pinellas students. On Aug. 18, they and their parents get to grade her back.
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Ed. note: This story was drafted with assistance from AI. Editorial judgment, sourcing, and final review were performed by Peter Schorsch and the Florida Politics editorial team.