Daniel Foganholi promises strong and bold decisions for Broward School Board District 1

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Broward County School Board member Daniel Foganholi, appointed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, explained to Florida’s Voice his goal to win the district 1 seat he currently holds in August.

He promised strong and bold decision-making if elected to the position for a full term.

“I believe that we are at a pivotal point and crucial time on the Broward County School Board. We have seen too many board members come in that are scared to take strong stances and make bold decisions,” Foganholi said.

“That is exactly what we need right now on the Broward County School board. I’m committed to making bold decisions and showing bold leadership to move our district forward and do what is best for our kids,” he added.

Foganholi outlined three main priorities to his campaign:

• School safety
• Student achievement
• Fiscal responsibility and transparency

In addition, Foganholi emphasized his commitment for countywide uniforms and a total cell phone ban in district schools.

“I believe that we need to focus on structure and discipline just like many of our competitors in the charter schools and private schools,” he said.

Foganholi was first appointed to serve District 5 in May 2022. He later was appointed a second time by DeSantis to serve District 1 in December 2022.

District 1 includes Dania Beach, Hallandale Beach, Hollywood, Miramar, Pembroke Park, Pembroke Pines, Tribal Land, and West Park.

A product of the Broward County school system, Foganholi attended Florida Atlantic University and obtained certificates in marketing and sales.

“I am honored to be a two-time DeSantis School Board appointee, as well as the only School Board member to serve and be appointed on the MSD safety commission,” Foganholi said.

Upon his approval, Foganholi became the first Brazilian American to be appointed in Florida, as well as the first to serve on the Broward County School Board.

“With almost 40% of our student body identifying as Hispanic, I believe that representation is extremely important. The Hispanic community in Broward County has often felt left behind and forgotten like many other ethnicities,” he said.

“I have been a strong advocate in dual language programs, expanding ESOL resources as well as advocating for more international welcome centers across our district to help incoming families that are finding homes in South Florida,” he added.

Since being appointed, Foghanoli has led and overseen a number of initiatives in the district, including working with the superintendent and community leaders to address the rise in antisemitism by having assemblies within the county.

Foghanoli also has pushed Broward schools to become an “A” District. In doing so, he has targeted 100% proficiency for all district students.

In December, the Florida Department of Education assessed Broward County Public Schools a “B” grade for the 2022-2023 school year.

Separately, Foghanoli issued a motion to implement three turf fields in the district. He also brought items declaring November as National Veterans Month, recognizing the National Day of Prayer, and National Clergy Appreciation Month.

Foghanoli also noted being an active member in the community, including volunteering at his church in Coconut Creek and coaching youth soccer.

Foghanoli will face-off against Maura McCarthy Bulman and John Christopher Canter for the seat. The election will be decided on Aug. 20 if a candidate has more than 50% of vote. If not, the race will go to the Nov. 5 election.