Endorsement – David Lawrenson for High School Board

David's Endorsements

These reputable community leaders have endorsed David Lawrenson. We're continually compiling endorsements. If you would like to contribute an endorsement, we appreciate your support. Please fill out this form to leave your own endorsement for David.

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IMPORTANT NOTE: Unless otherwise stated, these are personal endorsements. Organizational titles and affiliations are provided solely for identification purposes. No endorsement by any listed organization should be implied.

Bart O’Brien

Former Superintendent
Placer Union High School District

Willingness to listen to all; No agenda other than building strong programs at every school...

Kelley Davis

Mayor
City of Auburn

The community's feedback spoke for itself; Going above and beyond; What our schools need...

"I first met David Lawrenson through his incredible 20-year career leading the Placer High School Music Department — in recognizing his retirement, the community’s feedback spoke for itself: a teacher who built skills, confidence, and community pride while going above and beyond on countless occasions to put the needs and success of his students first. That same dedication and firsthand experience working with students, parents, teachers, and the educational system are what our schools need and will make him an outstanding voice on the Placer Unified High School District board."

David Underhill PUHSD Trustee endorsement for David Lawrenson 5-4 ratio

David Underwood

Trustee (Board Member)
Placer Unified High School District (PUHSD)

Outstanding educator, intelligent, responsive...represents excellence...

Randall Fee

Coach (retired)
Placer High School

Dave's commitment is unmatched; Exactly what we need at this time for stability on our PUHSD Board...

"I am honored to write this letter of endorsement for Dave Lawrenson for PUHSD Board Area 4. I had a close working relationship with him while I was the cross-country coach at Placer High. Dave's commitment to Placer High and his students was unmatched. Dave is exactly what we need at this time for stability on our PUHSD Board. Thank you Dave for your commitment to continue supporting PUHSD even as you start your retirement."

Rachel Radell-Harris

Vice Mayor
City of Auburn

Decades of experience as a teacher; Listens, brings people together, stays focused on practical solutions...

"David Lawrenson has spent his career where it matters most: in the classroom, working directly with students, families, and fellow educators. His decades of experience as a teacher give him a firsthand understanding of what our schools need to help every student succeed. He listens, brings people together, and stays focused on practical solutions that put students first. I’m proud to support David Lawrenson for the Placer Union High School District Board."

Joey Montoya

Head Football Coach
Placer High School

Unmatched passion for education; Exceptional leader; Profound wisdom...

"It is my honor to endorse Dave Lawrenson for the Placer School Board. For over 20 years in the district, Dave has been a pillar of our educational community. When he first took over the music program at Placer High School, it had fallen on tough times. Through sheer determination, tireless work, and an unmatched passion for education, Dave transformed it into one of the largest, most prestigious, and award-winning programs in the entire region. His incredible success across the band, choir, drumline, and wind ensembles ultimately earned him a well-deserved spot in the Placer High School Hall of Fame.

But Dave is more than just an award-winning director; he is an exceptional leader and a person of profound wisdom and integrity. Having just retired from the classroom, he possesses a current, deeply authentic understanding of exactly what our students and teachers need to thrive. He was a brilliant teacher and one of the most respected teachers on campus by both his students and peers.

Dave knows what it takes to build excellence from the ground up, and I have no doubt he will bring that same tireless work ethic to the school board."

Jim Holmes

Supervisor District 3 (retired)
Placer County

Motivational leader; The right candidate at the right time...

"I am pleased to endorse David Lawrenson for Placer High School Board Trustee Area 4. As a lifelong resident and community leader, I recognize exceptional talent when I see it.

I have known David for more than 20 years and observed him as a motivated leader at Placer High School. Davis displays leadership in the classroom as well as leadership in Placer High administration.

David Lawrenson is the right candidate at the right time for Placer Union High School Board Trustee."

Ron Oates

Retired 31-year Board Member
PUHSD

He will serve the students and parents of the district by representing all views...

Ron Roskelley

High School Athletic Director
Saratoga Springs

Great advocate for students; Always had the big picture; Contributions would be invaluable...

"I have known Dave Lawrenson for the better part of three decades. I have watched Dave build a great music department at Placer High school. While doing that he was a great advocate for students for not only their school activities, but also as individuals, always putting students first. As an educator, Mr. Lawrenson always had the big picture, helping students have a positive high school experience. I worked closely with Dave and saw firsthand his dedication and love for the students in the high school he worked at. I know Dave Lawrenson would be a great asset to any board. His background as an educator and as someone who advocates for students and their overall well-being. His contributions to the board would be invaluable. I would hope everyone choosing will know his value to leading this District to secure a great education for the students going forward."

Toby Covich

Fine Arts Chair and Visual Arts Teacher (38 years) - Retired
1972 Graduate
Placer High

Exceptional and tireless; Cares deeply about students and schools in our foothills communities; Quality programs...

"I can say with confidence that Dave Lawrenson took over a fledgling Placer High music program and built it into one of the finest programs in PUHSD history. Placer, Colfax and Del Oro all have a history of storied programs and understand the value of those programs to the overall school atmosphere, character, and assurance that our schools are a place students value.

Many of us don't understand the complexity of overseeing a music program from the classroom sessions to the variety including Marching Band, Jazz Band, Pep Band, Concert Band, and multiple Choirs, all with extracurricular programs sought out by the community with transportation and funding needs, accomplished with booster programs.
Dave was exceptional and tireless in his teaching, professionalism, and ensuring all students felt a sense of responsibility and belonging in his program.
I know Dave cares deeply about students and schools in our foothills communities and will continue his devotion as a board member to see that all students get a fair shake and each school has quality programs for our students."

Robert Kanngiesser

Board Trustee
Ackerman School District

Fostered an atmosphere of support, respect, and inclusion that enriches everyone...

"Throughout his distinguished career, David has not only taught his students the fundamentals of music but has truly empowered them to become exceptional musicians and outstanding members of society. He has consistently fostered an atmosphere of support, respect, and inclusion that enriches everyone around him. Having personally witnessed the positive impact he has had on my three daughters, I am proud to wholeheartedly endorse and support his continued service as a trustee."

Elizabeth Lomeli

Teacher
Placer High School

Deep commitment to students; Teacher of the Year; Understands our district; Former employee...and parent; Students rather than politics...

"Dave has demonstrated a deep commitment to our students. His selection as Teacher of the Year for 2025-2026 is a reflection of his dedication and service that those who know him have seen for years.

Dave understands our district, our schools, and the people who make them work both as a former employee and as a parent. He is an upstanding member of our community who approaches challenges by focusing on what is best for students rather than on politics. Dave values relationships. He listens, connects with people, and has a remarkable ability to bring individuals with different perspectives together around a common purpose.

Experience, integrity, collaboration, and a genuine commitment to students that we have seen in action over years-- these are the qualities that I most respect about Dave Lawrenson."

Sharona Belles

Former President
Placer High School Music Boosters

Librarian
Loomis Grammar School

Possesses an incredible skill; Talented Collaborator; Taught accountability, self-worth, and contributing back; He has conducted the rhythm of this town...

"David Lawrenson possesses an incredible skill in which he not only has mastered the art of teaching the arts, but he also is a talented collaborator, networking with colleagues and friends across departments, schools, and even states. Additionally, he has always taught the mindset that students should learn the value of, not only accountability, but self-worth and contributing back. His students are the best measurement to demonstrate his core principles and commitment to this community. He has directed more than music classes, he has conducted the rhythm of this town, turned youth into inspired citizens, and supported this community with immeasurable passion."

Bob Burge

Retired Teacher
Placer High School

Highly organized & thoughtful; Supports students, staff, and parents; Honesty, integrity, and sound decision-making...

"It’s my pleasure to endorse Dave Lawrenson for the Placer Union High School District Board of Trustees. I have known Dave for the past 20 years as he served as the band and choir teacher at Placer High School. I found him to be a highly organized and thoughtful individual who knows how to work with and support students, staff, and parents. His extensive experience in education will make him a strong school board member with a focus on what’s best for all students. Dave will bring honesty, integrity, and sound decision-making to the board and provide a bright future for the district."

Shana Fain McDonald

Former Board Trustee
Auburn Union School District

Retired Consultant & SVP
Lester Consulting Group

Extraordinary impact he has made on students; Inspired generations of students; Knows our schools; Understands what students need to thrive...

"I wholeheartedly endorse David Lawrenson for Placer Union High School District Board of Trustees, Area 4.

For more than a decade, I’ve had the privilege of working with David in volunteer roles and watching the extraordinary impact he has made on Placer High School students and the greater Auburn community. As the recently retired director of the music program, David inspired generations of students, not just as musicians, but as confident, responsible, creative, and engaged young people.

David knows our schools, understands what students need to thrive, and brings integrity, compassion, collaboration, and common sense to everything he does. He has spent his career investing in young people, and I can think of no better way for him to continue that service than on the school board.

I don’t live in Area 4, so I can’t vote for David. But if I could, I absolutely would. I encourage Area 4 voters to learn more about David and join me in supporting him!"

Jim and Debbie Knox endorsement for David Lawrenson 5-4

Jim & Debbie Knox

Retired Senior Organizer
CSEA

Best candidate out there...

Wendell and Jackie Witt endorsement for David Lawrenson 5-4

Wendell & Jackie Witt

Retired Educator (Wendell)
Placer High School

Retired Admin Assistant (Jackie)
Placer High School (and Del Oro Grad)

David is the John Wooden of music; Watched him transform; Incredible commitment to the students...

Karen Alvord

Vice Mayor
City of Roseville

His reputation is stellar; Passion to serve; Focus on excellent education...

"I am proud to endorse David for PUHSD TA4. His reputation among quality families and former students is stellar, and I am impressed with his passion to continue serving after such an incredible career of helping our students find success within themselves and through their education. I also appreciate that he will focus on excellent education and opportunities for these kids and not on the national politics that have infiltrated our non-partisan seats on many school boards. Good luck, David! We're cheering for you!"

Kathryn Gonzales

Proud Mom & Local Business Owner

Amazing teacher; He cared about our children; What we need...

"Dave Lawrenson was instrumental in helping and supporting my children through high school. My children are better people because he was such an amazing teacher, because he cared about our children. That is what we need for our community, for the Placer Union High School District. Someone who supports our kids, cares about our kids and is going to worry about our kids. And that's what David Lawrenson is going to do!"

Jeff and Brandee Ambrosia

Community Organizers & Placer Alumni Parents
Auburn

Willing to work for us; Champion for kids & Education his entire career...

"Our family and our community are the things we care the most about, and we are thrilled that Dave is willing to work for us on the Placer Union High School Board. Dave has been a champion for kids and education his entire career, and his willingness to extend into his retirement as a public servant on our behalf is truly remarkable. We enthusiastically support this campaign, and we hope that you will also!"

Brandi Cleland

Manager, Quality & Patient Safety
Sutter Health

Impact; Truly special; Kids felt safe, supported, and free to be themselves; I can't think of anyone better...

"I’m proud to endorse David Lawrenson for Area 4 School Board Trustee. My child had the privilege of having him as a band teacher for three years, and I saw firsthand the impact he had on his students. Over his many years as an educator, he built an incredible band program—but what made him truly special went far beyond music. He created a place where kids felt safe, supported, and free to be themselves. His retirement this year has left a real absence at the school, which speaks volumes about the difference he made. I can’t think of anyone better to bring that same dedication to students, understanding of our schools, and commitment to creating a place where every child can thrive to our School Board."

Scott Alvord

Former Councilmember
City of Roseville

Catalyst for focusing back on education; He explained how education lowers crime rates, raises property values, & decreases homelessness...

"When I first met David, I was truly impressed with his strong desire to continue serving the region to ensure students, families, faculty, and administration found success. I wasn't sure if that was possible with all the emotions and anger happening at the school board meetings over the last few years. But he convinced me he could be a catalyst for focusing back on education and not politics.

If you don't know me, please know that my city council service focused a lot on economic development. David spoke right to my soul when he clearly explained how getting these students into successful careers helps ALL of us because it lowers crime rates, raises property values, and decreases homelessness. THAT is why we should ALL support this man! Let's get him across the finish line because our region needs his vision and leadership!"

Cayce Beames

Resident
Auburn, CA

Positive impacts on kids, parents & community; Tough and compassionate, Dedicated and thorough; Ideal candidate...

"I've known David Lawrencen for over 8 years. My kids were part of his music program all 4 years of their High School careers. During this time, I volunteered for numerous events and have had the opportunity to observe David directly, and the unquestionably positive impacts that David has made on the kids and parents lives as well as the communities around them. David is tough and compassionate, dedicated and thorough. David has the knowledge, experience, and most importantly, the commitment to the mission that makes him the ideal candidate for this position. I whole heartedly endorse him."

PJ Decker

ASB Finance Technician
Placer High School

Teacher's perspective; Firsthand experience with students, families, educators, and the school community...

"For more than 30 years, Dave Lawrenson has brought a teacher’s perspective and strong connection to the community, teaching students the importance of preparation, teamwork, accountability, and giving everyone a chance to contribute. As longtime leader of the Placer High School Band, he has led a program that has earned multiple gold medals and accolades, giving him firsthand experience with students, families, educators, and the school community."

Lynette Echelmeier

29-year Teacher/Educator
Twin Rivers Unified School District

Motivated by what is in the best interest of the students...

Christopher Walsh

Community Resident
Auburn

Impressed with his demeanor; We will be served well by having him on the school board...

Sandy Amara

City Councilmember
City of Auburn

Highly respected teacher; Involved; Brings integrity, experience, and genuine commitment; Works collaboratively...

"I am pleased to endorse. David Lawrenson for Placer High School Board of Trustees. As a highly respected teacher at Placer High School for many years and involved in our community, David brings integrity, experience, and a genuine commitment to serving our community. I am confident in his ability to continue to listen, work collaboratively, and make thoughtful decisions for the betterment of our residents and students! As a former mayor and current city council member for Auburn, I strongly support David Lawrenson in his new role."

More coming soon!...

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Friends of David Lawrenson for PUHSD TA4 2026
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Who is David Lawrenson

David has been a tireless educator for the last 39 years. He has an extensive background in working with students, parents and administration so that every student succeeds both educationally and vocationally. He believes that being a strong school board trustee begins with listening, being thoughtful of all perspectives, building consensus, and acting with integrity. This leads to policy and goal setting that is in line with what all students need in order to feel safe, get a great education, and build healthy relationships with their peers. Our schools and communities are strongest when all students, parents, educators, and administrators have meaningful voice in the decisions that affect our schools.