Jupiter’s Lori Bonino declares bid for Palm Beach County school board seat

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – Former principal and Jupiter town official Lori Bonino this week announced her bid for the School Board of Palm Beach County District 1 seat.

“I am running for Palm Beach County School Board, District 1 because my passion is children and education,” Bonino said to Florida’s Voice. “I have been an educator in Palm Beach County since 1985, and I want to continue to support our students and educators.”

Over her educational career, Bonino worked as principal of Palm Beach Gardens Elementary School, Lighthouse Elementary School, and Independence Middle School. She also served as assistant principal for Boca Middle School, Starlight Cove Elementary School, and North Palm Beach Elementary School.

Bonino also worked in higher education as an adjunct professor at Florida Atlantic University and Barry University.

She received a Bachelor of Science degree in education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Nova Southeastern University.

“I would continue our efforts to provide safe school campuses for all students,” Bonino said. “Additionally, raising student achievement scores, with a particular focus on 3rd grade reading scores is another priority of mine.”

Upon retiring in 2013, Bonino was hired as an official for the town of Jupiter. She served as assistant town manager and interim town manger before retiring in 2018.

Over her career with the town, Bonino supervised the development of Jupiter’s new police department. She also helped advance the Abacoa parking plan and the formation of an education committee.

Bonino currently presides on the Jupiter Police Foundation advisory board.

District 1 is is currently represented by Barbara McQuinn, who declined to seek reelection. McQuinn endorsed Bonino following her announcement.

“I am excited to endorse Lori Bonino for the District 1 seat on the School Board of Palm Beach County,” McQuinn said a release. “Ms. Bonino brings many years of successful experience as a Palm Beach County classroom teacher and school principal. She also brings the unique combination of educator along with serving as assistant manager for the Town of Jupiter.”

The primary election takes place Aug. 20, 2024. General election day in Palm Beach County will be Nov. 5, 2024.