Four candidates competing to fill the seat left vacant by Kate Harrison’s resignation explain their views on housing, homelessness, property crime and more.
Ally Markovich
Ally Markovich, who covers the school beat for Berkeleyside and specializes in enterprise stories, is a former high school English teacher. Her work has appeared in The Oaklandside, The New York Times, Huffington Post and Washington Post, among other publications. You can spot her running on the trails in Tilden Park.
Berkeley Unified hit with new civil rights complaint over anti-Palestinian and Arab racism
The district now faces allegations of antisemitism and “severe and pervasive racism” against Palestinian, Arab and Muslim students and staff.
Berkeley superintendent testifies before Congress: ‘Antisemitism is not pervasive in BUSD’
Superintendent Enikia Ford Morthel was grilled by lawmakers during a congressional hearing on antisemitism in K-12 schools but avoided the most intense scrutiny reserved for NYC schools chancellor.
Berkeley Unified approves staff layoffs as state budget tightens
The layoffs, which could still be rescinded, include positions in the Office of Family Engagement and Equity and instructional aides.
Trans students at Berkeley High celebrate new all-gender bathroom
Following months of advocacy by trans students, the high school converted a multi-stall bathroom for use by people of all genders Tuesday.
Sen. Nancy Skinner endorses Mayor Jesse Arreguín for State Senate
Skinner backed Arreguín to fill her District 7 seat, while opponent Jovanka Beckles has earned endorsements from progressives like Pamela Price.
New UC Berkeley student housing complex will have Ohlone name
A new housing complex for graduate students in Albany will be called xučyun ruwway to honor the homeland of the Ohlone people.
Housing production slumps in Berkeley after 2022 peak
The number of units receiving building permits dropped 50% in 2023 after peaking the year before, driven by high interest rates and construction costs nationwide.
Berkeley superintendent will testify before Congress on antisemitism
Berkeley Unified will testify along with at least two other school districts as a House committee expands its inquiry into antisemitism in K-12 schools.
Parent sues Berkeley Unified over access to Israel-Palestine curriculum
The complaint alleged that the school district violated the law by refusing the parent access to a slideshow on the conflict in the Middle East taught to 9th graders.
Rich Lyons named next UC Berkeley chancellor
Lyons, who oversees innovation and entrepreneurship at UC Berkeley and is the former dean of Haas Business School, will take over for Carol Christ July 1.
New Berkeley City College building will rise downtown
Construction on the new 6-story building will break ground later this month and will double the footprint of the campus.