Polk County School Board Elections Head to Run-Off in District 3; Incumbents Secure Victories in Districts 5 and 6
The Polk County School Board elections saw District 3 heading to a run-off election in November, as no candidate secured over 50% of the vote. Incumbent Kate Wallace, appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis in November 2025, received 45.1% of votes, while challenger Victor Sims garnered 35.8%. Sarah Corona, with 19.1% of the vote, was eliminated. Wallace expressed her focus on representing conservative values, advocating for school choice, and ensuring high-quality public schools. Sims, who campaigned for 500 days, emphasized fiscal conservatism and efficient use of funds. Meanwhile, incumbent Kay Fields, 73, secured her position for another term in District 5 with 57% of the votes, making her the longest-serving member of the board since 2002. She dedicated her campaign to her late sister and plans to focus on teacher recruitment, retention, and salary increases. In District 6, incumbent Justin Sharpless, 42, won decisively with 67.5% of the vote against Kasen Hampton, aiming to elevate the district to an 'A' ... 
