Campaign Surges Past 170 Endorsements
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact Name: Mer Curry Nuñez
Contact Number: (408) 901-0290
Contact Email: info@merforschoolboard.com
Mer for East Side Campaign Surges Past 170 Endorsements With Broad Community Support
July 14, 2026
San Jose, CA -- Today, Mer Curry Nuñez announced a major early milestone in her run for East Side Union High School District (ESUHSD) Trustee Area #1, demonstrating deep and growing support across Alum Rock, East San José, and communities statewide. Since launching, the campaign has secured over 170 endorsements, reflecting the power of a grassroots movement invested in strong public schools, responsible stewardship of public dollars, and cradle-to-career opportunities for every student.
“I am humbled and energized by the trust our community is placing in this campaign,” said Meredith “Mer” Curry Nuñez. “These early results show that families, students, educators, and neighbors are ready for fresh, transparent, student-centered leadership that understands both the challenges and the incredible opportunities ahead for ESUHSD and the Alum Rock community.”
175 Endorsements and the School Board Integrity Project Seal
The campaign confirmed 175 endorsements from across California, including influential regional and state leaders such as ESUHSD Trustee Pattie Cortese, Santa Clara County District 2 Supervisor Betty Duong, Assemblymember Ash Kalra, Senator Dave Cortese, Congressman Ro Khanna, and Attorney General Rob Bonta.
Pattie Cortese, East Side Union High School District Trustee: “As a graduate of Piedmont Hills High, an East Side Hall of Famer, and an advocate working in the cradle-to-career ecosystem for over two decades, she has the lived and professional experience to be an effective partner on the board.”
Betty Duong, Santa Clara County Supervisor District 2: “As a proud alum of the East Side Union High School District, I’m excited to support Mer Curry Nuñez for District 1 Trustee. She’s a student-centered advocate who will work tirelessly for her neighbors. I know this because I’ve seen her work ethic up close as a steering committee member and speaker at the annual Women’s Policy & Leadership Summits. Mer is exactly the kind of leader East Side families need serving on one of the largest high school districts in Northern California.”
Ash Kalra, Assemblymember District 25: "I’ve partnered with Mer to promote the CalKIDS child savings account program and to bring education leaders and policymakers together through intentional convenings. I have seen her go out of her way to volunteer on local nonprofit boards and networks to ensure that the East Side has representation."
Dave Cortese, Senator District 15: "Mer’s long record of service and community involvement says so much about who she is. I know she’ll keep making a positive difference in our schools and community.”
Ro Khanna, Congressman District 17: "She shares my passion and track record for tackling college affordability, support for all postsecondary pathways including apprenticeships, and standing up for women’s rights."
Attorney General Rob Bonta: "I am supporting Mer Curry Nuñez for East Side Union High School District Area 1 Trustee. She is a daughter of the East Side, a graduate of public schools, and a long-time advocate. Mer’s passion and expertise in education translate directly into action. Join me in supporting Mer by voting to elect her on November 3rd."
These leaders join organizations like the CA High School Democrats, Bay Area Young Democrats, UA Local Union 393, and the School Board Project, as well as several trustees from ESUHSD’s feeder school districts, in backing Mer’s vision for East Side students.
In recognition of Mer’s commitment to ethical, transparent governance, the campaign has received the School Board Integrity Project Seal, underscoring Mer’s pledge to lead with integrity, accountability, and a focus on student outcomes. “Earning this seal is both an honor and a responsibility,” said Mer. “It affirms our commitment to honest, community-rooted leadership that centers students and builds trust with families, educators, and taxpayers.”
A Vision Grounded in East Side
Mer’s campaign emphasizes leveraging existing state tools and investments—such as CaliforniaColleges.edu, CalKIDS child savings accounts, and the Cradle to Career Data System—to improve college and career outcomes for ESUHSD students. As an East Side resident for two decades and a long-time advocate for students and families, Mer brings both lived experience and statewide policy expertise to the race for ESUHSD Area 1.
“East Side’s new trustee area #1 deserves a board member who understands the district’s budget realities, the impact of school closures and consolidations, and the opportunities that come from smart, equity-focused investment,” said Mer. “Together, we can ensure every student—no matter their zip code, language, or income—has a real pathway to college, career, and a thriving future.”
Call to Action
The campaign is encouraging supporters to join #TeamMer by donating, endorsing, volunteering, and spreading the word to neighbors across the Alum Rock community and East San José. Neighbors and allies can learn more, sign up to volunteer, or make a contribution by visiting merforeastside.com or following @merforeastside on social media.
“Every door knocked, every call made, and every conversation with a neighbor brings us closer to an East Side school system that truly works for our students,” Mer said. “I’m ready to get to work, and I’m grateful that so many of you are ready, too.”
